[CDx Launch Session Summary] Fishbowl 5: Purchasing Offsite Renewable Energy

Written by
The CDx Team
Published on
January 9, 2025

The session on purchasing offsite renewable energy explored strategies and challenges for renewable energy procurement, particularly for SMEs in Southeast Asia. Mark Hutchinson, Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), highlighted the limited access SMEs have to Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for renewable energy, urging a phased approach starting with Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and progressing toward direct sourcing. He also shared innovative models like Apple’s ‘micro-utility’ approach, which simplifies renewable energy procurement for its supply chain.

David Yeo warned against relying solely on RECs, advocating for direct renewable energy sourcing to achieve true sustainability. He pointed to market complexity and price volatility, particularly in Singapore, where demand from RE100 companies has driven prices to unprecedented levels. He also emphasized the importance of transparent policies and simplified financial instruments.

Albert Sutanto of Mount Stonegate discussed practical solutions like bundling contracts with larger off-takers to de-risk renewable energy projects for SMEs. He underscored the competition SMEs face from state-owned utilities and large corporations, as well as the need for stronger policy advocacy to create a supportive market environment.

Key Takeaways

  • SME Access to Renewables: Utility green tariffs, bundled contracts, and phased adoption of RECs offer pathways for SMEs to engage in renewable energy procurement.
  • Market Dynamics: Price volatility, especially in Singapore, underscores the need for stable market mechanisms and regulatory clarity.
  • Innovative Models: Strategies like Apple’s pre-booked renewable energy agreements can inspire scalable solutions for SMEs.
  • Policy Advocacy: Industry associations are essential for lobbying policy changes to benefit SMEs and foster equitable renewable energy access.
  • Financial Simplification: Accessible tools and frameworks like CFDs are needed to demystify renewable energy procurement for SMEs.

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