Work with vendors or the utility to determine the cost of purchasing RECs and carbon offsets for at least a two-year period. Check the cost for achieving each point threshold, and use it to conduct a cost-benefit analysis.
Calculate the total annual energy use for the building, and separate electricity use from purchased steam, natural gas, propane, or fuel oil consumed onsite.
Determine if Green-e certified RECs and carbon offsets can be purchased through the building’s utility or power provider, or choose a third party to purchase from.
Assess the feasibility of a new system, or adding capacity to the existing system. What type of system is the best fit? Consider regional and site factors such as solar access. Is there enough space to support the required equipment? Can a PV or Solar Thermal system be easily integrated into the existing electrical, heating, or domestic hot water systems? What is the likely payback, and does that work for the owner? Are there federal, state, local, or utility incentives for specific
