DEVELOPING PV CERTIFICATES FOR THE GREEN POWER MARKET

摘要

There is a growing demand by consumers in the marketplace for solar photovoltaic, or PV-generated, electricity. Consumers want to support PV even though they may not be able to afford to have their own PV system on their roof. PV "certificates" represent the positive technology and environmental attributes of a PV system and are measured in the same units as the energy output. This paper examines the unique attributes of PV systems with regard to certificates and how these can be configured to generate additional revenues for PV owners in wholesale and retail green markets. The paper discusses disclosure requirements, production verification needs, and metering issues unique to PV, including net metering. Estimates of additional revenues are made based on recent activities in the wholesale certificate market. Specific follow-up actions on the supply- and demand-side are recommended to implement a pilot program for PV certificates.