Green Energy Tariffs: Separating the Real from the Just Green-Washed
Uncovering genuine Green Energy Tax Incentives or Rates
Fed up with the ambiguity surrounding so-called green energy tariffs? You're not alone! If you're tired of indecisiveness and want to make a genuine impact, here's what you should look for when searching for a truly green energy provider in Germany:
Green Energy: More Than Just a Label
To ensure your electricity is sourced ethically, prioritize providers with clear and consistent commitments to renewable energy. Avoid tariffs that mix conventional and renewable sources—these offerings are rarely authentic. Additionally, keep your eyes open for Guarantees of Origin (GO) certificates, which verify that the energy supplied is generated by renewable sources.
Clear and Transparent Providers
Find providers that voluntarily disclose the sources of their energy, providing a clear picture of the green expansion they're supporting. Ideally, the tariff should provide benefits for the energy transition beyond merely selling existing renewable energy.
Say Goodbye to Fossil Fuel and Nuclear Power
To be veritably green, energy must be free from fossil fuels (coal, natural gas) and nuclear power sources.
Partner Up with Environmental Organizations
For added credibility, seek providers certified by recognized environmental organizations such as the "Grüner Strom" quality seal or the "ok-Power" green energy label. Both labels guarantee a minimum amount of benefit for the energy transition, while also guaranteeing that the providers are not embroiled in nuclear, new coal, and lignite power plants[1].
Green Providers You Can Trust
- The Green Electricity Label ("Grüner Strom Label"): This prominent seal is backed by major environmental organizations in Germany, such as NABU (Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union) and BUND (Friends of the Earth Germany). The label guarantees not only renewable energy but also strict environmental and social criteria[2].
- Renewable Energy Act Compliance (EEG - Erneuerbare-Energien-Gesetz): Tariffs based on EEG-compliant renewable generation receive feed-in tariffs and are subject to German law. While EEG itself isn't a label, verifying if a tariff relates to EEG-based renewable energy can be a good indicator[3].
- Guarantees of Origin (GO certificates): While alone they don't guarantee additional environmental benefits, look for tariffs that combine GOs with other sustainability commitments.
Empowering the Green Revolution
Choosing a truly green energy tariff isn't only about saving the planet—real green tariffs can often be cheaper than traditional providers! Green electricity can save a 4-person household up to €350 per year[3]. So not only can you help drive the energy transition, but you might also end up saving some cash!
Sources:[1] ntv.de[2] awi/dpa[3] Co2-Online[4] Climate Protection Network Germany
- In pursuit of a truly green energy policy, community members should prioritize providers with clear commitments to renewable energy, as opposed to those that mix conventional and renewable sources, which often lack authenticity.
- For transparent practices, look for providers that voluntarily disclose the sources of their energy, ensuring a clear picture of the green expansion they're supporting.
- To be genuinely green, the employment policy of energy providers should ideally prioritize renewable-energy, be free from fossil fuels (coal, natural gas) and nuclear power sources.
- To ensure credibility, consider providers certified by recognized environmental organizations like the "Grüner Strom" quality seal or the "ok-Power" green energy label, which guarantee minimal benefits for the energy transition and also prohibit involvement in nuclear, new coal, and lignite power plants.
