Scope 2 emissions
Under the GHG Protocol's market-based method, I-RECs reduce or eliminate the emissions of the electricity you buy.
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- What is an I-REC?
What is an I-REC?
An I-REC (International Renewable Energy Certificate) is proof that 1 MWh of electricity was generated from a renewable source. Here is how they work and how companies use them.
The short answer
I-REC: International Renewable Energy Certificate
An I-REC is a digital certificate that proves 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity was generated from a renewable source, such as wind, solar or hydro, and delivered to the grid. Companies buy and redeem I-RECs to report their electricity consumption as renewable.
- 1 I-REC = 1 MWh of renewable electricity.
- Each certificate records the plant, technology, location and production date.
- They are tracked in the Evident registry and governed by The International Tracking Standard Foundation.
- Available in more than 60 countries, especially those without a national tracking system.
Buying I-RECs?
- We source I-RECs in more than 90 markets
- Redeemed in your company's name
- Official, verifiable redemption statement
How it works
From a power plant to your sustainability report
- Generation A registered renewable plant generates electricity and reports its metered production.
- Issuance The local issuer (NORMEX in Mexico) issues one I-REC per MWh, each with a unique serial number.
- Redemption A registry participant redeems the I-RECs in the end user's name; they can never be used again.
Uses
What companies use I-RECs for
RE100 and CDP
Accepted as proof of renewable electricity by RE100 and in CDP climate disclosures.
100% renewable claims
Report your consumption as renewable to clients, investors and regulators, backed by a verifiable certificate.
Comparison
I-RECs and other energy attribute certificates
| Certificate | Where | Main use |
|---|---|---|
| I-RECs | 60+ countries (Latin America, Asia, Africa, Middle East) | Voluntary renewable claims and Scope 2 |
| CELs | Mexico | Mandatory clean-energy compliance in the MEM |
| GOs | Europe | Official renewable tracking in Europe |
| RECs | United States and Canada | Renewable claims in North America |
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What does I-REC stand for?
I-REC stands for International Renewable Energy Certificate. It is also written IREC or I-REC(E).
How much does an I-REC cost?
The price depends on the country, the technology, the vintage (production year) and the volume. Mexican I-RECs, for example, are priced differently from those of other Latin American countries. Request a quote for current prices.
Who issues I-RECs?
Local issuers authorized by The International Tracking Standard Foundation issue I-RECs in each country (NORMEX in Mexico). All certificates are tracked in the Evident registry.
What does it mean to redeem an I-REC?
Redeeming (or retiring) an I-REC assigns it permanently to an end user for a specific period of consumption. The registry issues a redemption statement, and the certificate can never be sold or used again.
Can I buy I-RECs for my operations in Mexico?
Yes. Mexico has an active I-REC market with wind, solar and hydro plants. See I-RECs in Mexico.
Ready to buy I-RECs?
Tell us your consumption and reporting period. We will prepare options in your market.
Request a quote