How to verify the authenticity of Renewable Energy Certificates in Singapore

Verification of Renewable Energy Certificates

Key Takeaways

Always verify the origin of any certificate before making a purchase to ensure it represents a genuine contribution.
Maintain proper documentation and audit trails for every transaction, so you can track and confirm authenticity when needed.
Work with trusted providers and suppliers, and keep detailed records of all purchases to support transparency and accountability in your reporting or sustainability efforts.

Introduction

Supporting renewable energy is easier than ever in Singapore, with options ranging from rooftop solar to purchasing renewable energy certificates (RECs), official documents that represent one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated from renewable sources. But with so many certificates on the market, how can you be sure your purchase truly represents clean energy generation?

Because without proper verification, there’s a risk of overestimating your environmental impact or unintentionally buying certificates that don’t meet international standards. Understanding the process of REC verification ensures that your contribution to renewable energy solutions is both genuine and traceable. Let’s break that down.

How RECs Are Tracked and Issued

Every REC corresponds to actual renewable energy generation, and to maintain trust, they are tracked through recognised registries. In Singapore, platforms such as Evident and Xpansiv digitally record the generation, trades, and surrender of RECs. This tracking ensures that every certificate you buy is linked to a real renewable energy project. By relying on these registries, buyers can confidently navigate the REC market knowing each certificate is properly accounted for.

Checking Certification Bodies and Standards

As not all RECs are created equal, it’s important to verify that your REC comes from an accredited registry or certification body that follows international verification standards, such as I-REC(E) or TIGR. These standards guarantee that the renewable energy generation behind each certificate is legitimate and verifiable. When you buy REC, you’re not just supporting renewable energy; you’re making a tangible, verified contribution to a cleaner energy future.

Unique Identification Numbers and Audit Trails

Every REC includes a unique serial number, which acts as a digital fingerprint linking the certificate to the specific renewable energy project that produced it. Registries maintain detailed audit trails, documenting each transfer or sale. This system allows for straightforward REC verification: by checking the serial number against the issuing registry, you can confirm that your certificate is authentic and hasn’t been used elsewhere.

Matching RECs to Your Reporting Requirements

To keep your sustainability claims accurate and defensible, your REC purchases must align with how your energy use is reported. Key considerations include:

Market boundaries:

Make sure to source RECs from the same market where your electricity is consumed. For example, under RE100 reporting in Singapore, organisations are required to use locally sourced RECs. These certificates are typically more limited in supply and therefore more expensive than regional or international alternatives.

Vintage:

Ensure the renewable energy generation period matches your electricity consumption period. Aligning these timelines supports accurate Scope 2 accounting and avoids gaps during audits.

Energy source:

Confirm that the renewable source meets the requirements of your reporting framework or internal policies. Not all energy types may be eligible under certain standards.

By aligning your REC purchases with reporting requirements, you can avoid compliance gaps and keep your sustainability claims accurate, credible, and audit-ready.

Avoiding Double Counting

A critical aspect of REC verification is ensuring that certificates aren’t claimed by multiple buyers. Proper registry systems prevent double-counting by marking RECs as “retired” once they’ve been redeemed or surrendered. This is especially important for businesses in Singapore reporting their renewable energy usage for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) purposes. Once retired on your behalf, you will receive a ‘Redemption Statement’, which ensures transparency and credibility in your sustainability reporting.

Aligning with Singapore’s National Standard (SS 673)

Businesses in Singapore should also align their REC practices with local standards. In 2021, Enterprise Singapore introduced SS 673, the Code of Practice for Renewable Energy Certificates. This national standard provides guidance on the proper use, management, and reporting of RECs within Singapore.

For businesses making sustainability or ESG disclosures, aligning with this standard strengthens credibility and demonstrates that your renewable energy claims are verified and compliant with Singapore’s regulatory expectations.

Best Practices for Buyers in Singapore

To make REC verification simple and effective, follow these steps:

Work with reputable REC retailers sourcing certificates from accredited registries. Ensure that the RECs you’re purchasing can fulfil your reporting requirements.
Request documentation, including serial numbers and certification details, for every purchase.
Keep records of all transactions to support ESG reporting and sustainability claims.

By following these best practices, you can confidently support renewable energy while ensuring your investments have a real impact.

In Conclusion

REC verification may seem technical, but it’s an essential step for anyone serious about renewable energy and sustainability. By understanding how certificates are issued, tracked, and audited, you can buy REC knowing your contribution is authentic and traceable.

For businesses seeking verified renewable energy certificates, contact Flo Energy today to explore certified renewable energy solutions and reliable REC options. Schedule a consultation and make a verified impact on Singapore’s sustainable future.