SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates)

Definition: Tradable certificates representing the environmental attributes of one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated from solar energy.

Relevance to energy: SRECs provide a financial incentive for solar energy production, encouraging the installation of solar panels and supporting the growth of renewable energy.

Benefits:

  • Provides additional income for solar panel owners
  • Encourages solar energy adoption
  • Helps states meet renewable energy goals

Drawbacks:

  • Market prices can be volatile
  • Not available in all states
  • Can be complex for homeowners to understand and manage

Statistics: In New Jersey, one of the leading SREC markets, the average SREC price in 2020 was around $220 per MWh, providing significant additional income for solar panel owners.