Renewable Choice Energy is a full-service provider of renewable energy credits (RECs) and carbon emissions reductions. They serve voluntary customers that are interested in a making a commitment to advance practical efforts addressing climate change.

Cameron Brooks, Vice President of Renewable Choice, will be presenting his views on “Taking credits to market” at Voluntary Carbon Markets, New York. Here he gives a quick preview:

What do you consider to be the most interesting developments and biggest challenges in the American voluntary carbon market at this time?

At this point, the most interesting developments have to do with (1) new project development and (2) credible, rigorous standards. Consumers are increasingly active in developing the voluntary market and that includes establishing appropriate market “infrastructure”, such as trading platforms, retail products and quality criteria.

What are the challenges facing standardization of the market?

Standardization in the market is currently challenged due to a lack of consensus, both voluntary and regulatory, regarding what constitutes “quality” in the offset market. We anticipate that this uncertainty will diminish going forward as there is increasing consolidation in the standards market.

If regulated emission reductions become mandatory in the US, what does the future hold for the voluntary market?

The voluntary market will continue to thrive in parallel with any regulated regime. The regulated market will only address a very limited sector the economy (electricity and heavy industry), where the voluntary market is most active among market-facing retail market that can realize benefits from brand enhancement.

What are the barriers to project developers looking to generate offsets?

I would anticipate that a significant barrier is establishing long-term, robust markets for emissions reductions and credits. This means that debt financing is more difficult to access.

What safeguards are required to ensure sustainable growth?

We believe that credible standards will be very important to ensure the continued growth in the US voluntary carbon market.

You will have an opportunity to learn more from Cameron and other experts at the upcoming congress.

ENDS