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In today's world, where sustainability and renewable energies play an increasingly important role, it is crucial for consumers and businesses to know where their electricity actually comes from. In answering this question, the proof of origin plays a central role. But what exactly is a proof of origin, and why is it so important in connection with green electricity?
A proof of origin is an official electronic document that confirms that a certain amount of electricity — specifically, one megawatt-hour (MWh) — has been generated from renewable energy sources. This document contains important information about where, how, and at what time the green energy was produced. In Germany, the Federal Environment Agency is responsible for issuing and managing proof of origin certificates, which are kept in the proof of origin register.
The German energy industry distinguishes between EEG-supported green electricity and that which is generated without this support. EEG-supported electricity is financed through the EEG surcharge and must be indicated accordingly in the electricity bill. Green electricity not supported by the EEG surcharge often comes from facilities that no longer receive support or deliberately opt out - this green electricity then requires a proof of origin to be marketed as green electricity at all.
One problem is that green electricity from EEG facilities cannot be marketed directly, as it is fed into the general electricity grid through the EEG system. The principle of origin proofs also poses challenges, as these proofs can also be applied to market electricity. Origin proofs can be traded independently of physical electricity supply, leading to the possibility of market electricity, for example through the purchase of origin proofs from Scandinavian hydropower, being declared as green electricity. This complicates transparency for consumers, as the physical origin of electricity is not always clearly identifiable.
The proof of origin register is an important component in the process of certifying and transacting green energy. The comprehensive documentation in the register ensures that each megawatt-hour of green energy is sold only once and is allocated to the consumer. This prevents double sales and guarantees that the green energy sold was actually sustainably generated. In this way, consumers choosing a green energy tariff can be confident that their contribution supports the production of renewable energies.
The proof of origin for green electricity has a dual significance: on the one hand, it enables consumers to make a conscious choice for the environment and against conventionally generated electricity. On the other hand, it promotes the expansion of renewable energy sources by creating a financial incentive for producers. By ensuring that only as much green electricity can be sold as is covered by proof of origin, the system not only supports transparency in the market but also directly contributes to environmental protection.
The proof of origin for green energy is an indispensable tool for a transparent and sustainable energy market. It enables the tracking of the origin of green energy without gaps and provides consumers with the confidence that their money truly supports the production of renewable energies. Furthermore, the origin certificate register ensures that green energy is not double sold, thereby strengthening trust in renewable energies.
Prokon has always focused on transparent and credible marketing of renewable energy. Our product Prokon Wind Power comes from our own, no longer subsidized wind farms. This means that the origin certificates are directly generated from our own electricity production, rather than being traded on the stock exchange. With Prokon, you can be sure that your green energy is truly green and actively contributes to the support of projects for renewable energies - this is also confirmed by several independent provider seals, including OK Power and TÜV Nord. Only together can we make a significant difference and make a valuable contribution to the energy transition!
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