A Corporate Renewables Q&A with John Powers

In this Q&A session with John Powers, we will address some of the most vital questions that commercial, industrial, and institutional (C&I) energy buyers should know about power purchase agreements and the state of corporate renewables purchasing.

John, what’s happening today in the corporate renewables landscape?

Globally, thousands of companies are pursuing renewable energy as a means to meet their environmental goals. Whether they are using energy attribute certificates in an emerging market, or exploring a long-term, utility-scale power purchase agreement, now is a dynamic time for corporations to enter the renewable energy market.

Power purchase agreements (PPAs) have received a lot of attention this year—what are they, and how do they help corporate buyers?

Power purchase agreements are a means for a creditworthy offtaker—in this case, the corporate buyer—to contract directly for renewable energy with a project developer. Companies can choose from onsite PPAs, like distributed generation solar, or offsite PPAs, like utility-scale wind projects, to meet their needs.  

PPAs can be structured as a direct supply deal or as a contract for differences (CFD). In either arrangement, the buyer is able to lock-in a fixed price for energy.  

What’s required for a company to pursue a PPA?

A primary benefit to PPAs is that they generally require no upfront capital investment (beyond transaction costs), which often removes a major barrier to adoption for companies looking at renewable energy solutions. However, in general, PPA buyers need to be creditworthy themselves, or able to post a letter of credit from a sizable financial organization, in order to back renewable energy projects.  

This presents a challenge for some buyers. PPAs aren’t for every company—but those who aren’t able to buy a PPA can still use energy attribute certificates (EACs) to meet their goals.

What should buyers interested in a PPA be thinking about?

Project selection is key in a successful PPA. There are a variety of factors to be considered and risks to be managed at every stage of the deal.

It’s also critically important to engage a cross-section of stakeholders in the PPA decision-making process, so organizational champions have to be prepared to manage those relationships and conversations.  

We strongly advise that anyone considering a PPA work with a buyer’s agent like Schneider Electric. We can help with project selection, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement to ensure a higher likelihood of deal success.

What about buyers with overseas operations?

The great news is that PPAs and EACs are available in a growing number of emerging markets such as Mexico, India, Europe, and elsewhere. 

Interested in exploring the business case for renewable energy? Register now to join your peers at Corporate Renewables 2016 next month in Washington DC.

The post A Corporate Renewables Q&A with John Powers of Renewable Choice Energy appeared first on Renewable Choice Energy.