Sundaymail Editor
Emmanuel Kafe
Stakeholders in Zimbabwe’s energy sector have introduced the Zimbabwe Renewable Energy Certificates (Zim-RECs), a new platform designed to empower renewable energy producers to showcase their sustainability efforts while enabling consumers and businesses to actively support and invest in clean energy initiatives.
The move is part of efforts to advance the country’s transition to greener energy solutions and reducing carbon footprint.
Speaking during the launch in Harare on Friday, Energy and Power Development permanent secretary Engineer Gloria Magombo said the initiative, managed by the Africa Institute for Carbon Trading and Sustainability in partnership with Silver-Carbon is a step towards sustainable and renewable energy mix.
“To fully leverage the potential of RECs, we must establish a robust and transparent trading system. This requires the inclusion of all stakeholders, government, private sector, communities, and civil society.
“The support and buy-in of all stakeholders from the onset for creating a stable and attractive market for RECs are essential. Standardised certification and verification are crucial for maintaining market confidence,” she said.
Renewable Energy Certificates are like labels that prove that a certain amount of electricity was generated from renewable sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power.
When a renewable energy project generates electricity, it earns RECs.
Each REC represents 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable electricity.
Companies or individuals can buy RECs to offset their own non-renewable energy usage, support renewable energy projects, and meet renewable energy targets or goals.
Online Reporter