- February 25, 2025
- Posted by: Mackenzie Smith
- Categories: Buildings, Green Power, NGBS, RECs
How Buildings Seeking NGBS Certification Can Use Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to Meet Certification Requirements
The National Green Building Standard (NGBS) is a leading certification for residential buildings that promotes energy efficiency, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. One key way buildings can meet NGBS energy performance requirements is by purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to offset their electricity consumption with clean, renewable power.
At Current Partners, we have helped multifamily and mixed-use buildings procure high-quality RECs to support their NGBS certification efforts. By integrating RECs into your energy strategy, you can reduce your carbon footprint, earn sustainability recognition, and potentially increase property value.
How RECs Help Buildings Achieve NGBS Certification
NGBS certification evaluates buildings on various sustainability criteria, including energy efficiency, water conservation, and renewable energy use. Buildings earn points across multiple categories, and purchasing RECs can help meet energy-related requirements in the following ways:
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (701.4 – Renewable Energy)
- NGBS awards points for offsetting on-site electricity use with renewable energy, which can be achieved through on-site solar/wind or by purchasing Green-e® Certified RECs.
- RECs allow buildings to claim the environmental benefits of renewable power without installing costly on-site renewable systems.
Carbon Footprint Reduction (703.3 – Carbon Mitigation)
- NGBS recognizes efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to clean energy sources.
- Purchasing RECs ensures that a portion (or all) of your electricity consumption is offset by renewable generation, reducing your overall carbon footprint.
Green Building Recognition and Marketability
- Using RECs to meet NGBS certification standards enhances the building’s sustainability profile, making it more attractive to eco-conscious tenants, investors, and lenders.
- Properties with green certifications, like NGBS, can access financial incentives, including lower mortgage rates through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac green loan programs.
Why Choose RECs for NGBS Certification?
- Cost-Effective Compliance – RECs offer a low-cost alternative to on-site renewable energy installation while still allowing buildings to meet NGBS renewable energy goals.
- Immediate Implementation – Unlike installing solar panels or wind turbines, purchasing RECs provides instant certification benefits without infrastructure investments.
- Third-Party Certified – Current Partners provides Green-e® Certified RECs, ensuring that your renewable energy claims are verified and meet industry standards.
- Enhances Sustainability Goals – Using RECs demonstrates a building’s commitment to sustainability, helping attract tenants, secure incentives, and improve brand reputation.
How Current Partners Can Help
At Current Partners, we specialize in helping multifamily, commercial, and mixed-use properties procure NGBS-compliant RECs that:
- Align with NGBS renewable energy requirements
- Meet Green-e® certification standards
- Are sourced from high-quality wind, solar, and other renewable projects
- Help buildings reduce carbon emissions and operational impact
Take the Next Step Toward NGBS Certification
If your project is seeking NGBS certification, purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) is a simple, cost-effective way to meet certification requirements while showcasing your commitment to sustainability.
Contact Current Partners today to learn how we can help you achieve NGBS certification and integrate RECs into your energy strategy.
Make your building greener, more efficient, and marketable with RECs today!
Ready to get started? Let’s make your building a leader in sustainability and innovation!