Do Small Wind Turbines Qualify For Renewable Energy Certificates?

Eligibility and Certification Process

In the United States, the small wind turbine industry is governed by the Small Wind Certification Council (SWCC) and the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). To qualify for RECs, small wind turbines must meet specific standards and be certified by the SWCC or NABCEP. This typically involves a site assessment, system design, and installation by a certified professional.

REC Tracking and Registration

Once a small wind turbine is installed and certified, the owner can register it with the Renewable Energy Certificates Tracking System (RECs TS) or the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL) REC registry. This allows the owner to track and verify the production of RECs, which can then be sold or traded on the market. For example, a 5 kW small wind turbine operating in California might produce approximately 7,300 kWh per month, generating 7-8 RECs per month.

State-Specific Incentives and Programs

While the federal government does not offer direct incentives for small wind turbines, many states have their own programs and tax credits to encourage the adoption of renewable energy. For instance, a homeowner in Maine might be eligible for a $1,000 rebate on a small wind turbine system, while a resident of New York might qualify for a 50% tax credit up to $5,000 on the installation costs. It’s essential to research and understand the specific incentives and regulations in your state before investing in a small wind turbine system.