Guarantees of Origin (GO) are certificates that provide information about the source of energy production, specifically renewable energy. A GO indicates the generation of one megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity from an eligible source of renewable power. They are a way to trace and verify the origin of energy, and to ensure that it comes from a renewable source. Guarantees of Origin are used to promote transparency and facilitate the trading of renewable energy in the marketplace.
These certificates are issued by relevant authorities or certification bodies to energy producers. They provide information about the environmental attributes of the energy, such as its source, production method, and environmental impact.
The goal is to encourage the use of clean and sustainable energy sources and to help consumers make informed choices about the energy they use. They can be traded separately from the physical electricity, allowing consumers to support renewable energy even if it is not directly available in their region.
Guarantees of Origin enable traceability of energy back to its source, providing transparency and accountability in the energy market. Consumers or businesses can use these certificates to verify the renewable origin of the energy they purchase.
There are international standards and guidelines governing the issuance and trading of Guarantees of Origin, such as the European standard EN 16325. Different countries may have their own specific regulations and standards for Guarantees of Origin. Governments and organizations may use Guarantees of Origin as part of their renewable energy support mechanisms.
Certificates are issued by authorized bodies that verify the compliance of energy production with specific criteria for renewable sources. These bodies play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and accuracy of Guarantees of Origin.
In summary, Guarantees of Origin are important instruments in promoting renewable energy and ensuring transparency in the energy market. They contribute to the overall goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the environmental impact of energy production.