Category: Blog

Renewable Energy Solutions with RPD Energy

Sustainability is not just an esoteric, altruistic goal that companies take upon themselves for cultural reasons. Sustainable business practices have become imperative at multiple levels in organizations. Public and private investor pressure, compliance requirements for publicly traded companies, consumer preferences, and supply chain requirements from large downstream customers all drive the need for solutions that stand up to scrutiny. Perhaps equally important is the ability to recruit and retain talent. Younger generations value working for organizations that take sustainability seriously, so getting your plan in motion is valuable on many levels.

Q: Why has the need for renewable solutions for business continued to increase?

A: Corporate responsibility is more than an ideology. It is becoming a standard operating requirement at both strategic and tactical levels, but companies need a viable approach. Implementation of carbon reduction strategies and renewable power is still one of the most impactful elements of sustainability strategy and yet one of the most sophisticated.

Q: How does RPD Energy assist businesses in their transition to renewable energy?

A: Providing customized renewable energy solutions tailored to unique business needs is very important. By simplifying the transition to carbon-free energy sources, RPD Energy makes renewable energy accessible to companies in all stages of their sustainability journey. We leverage cutting-edge analytics and deep market expertise to deliver physical carbon-free energy solutions that meet sustainability objectives, mitigate risk for energy customers, and provide performance monitoring to support energy customers’ claims. We also manage the process and navigate the energy supply chain. 

We have helped Iron Mountain Data Centers reach their sustainability goals by creating unprecedented 24/7 CFE solutions at various locations across the U.S., setting a standard for others to achieve. 

Q: What is unique about RPD Energy’s approach to renewable energy solutions?

A: What sets RPD Energy apart is its commitment to collaboration and customization. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, each client is treated as a partner. We take the time to understand clients’ sustainability objectives and create an optimal solution to meet those objectives whether that is a cutting edge 24/7 carbon-free energy transaction or an interim step to advance your goals. We handle analyzing your energy load and current market dynamics to create actionable options, streamline the contracting process, and monitor your solution’s performance so that you may confidently share your results.

Q: RPD Energy has partnered with brands like REI, Adobe, and Iron Mountain. What can you share about one of these partnerships?

A: Recently, RPD Energy joined the ESG Talk Podcast to share the noteworthy results of their 24/7 CFE transaction with Iron Mountain.

Listen as they describe their amazing journey to carbon-free data centers.

Q: How does RPD Energy view its role in the sustainability journey of businesses?

A: More than just an energy solutions provider, we see ourselves as a true partner in your sustainability journey. Through innovation, expertise, deep industry relationships, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we empower businesses to embrace carbon-free energy solutions and drive positive change in the world.

Learn more about RPD Energy at rdpenergy.com. 

The event highlighted how far we’ve come and what lies ahead over the next five years

This year’s CEBA Connect: Spring Summit was not only a premier convening for energy and sustainability professionals, but a celebration of CEBA’s five-year anniversary. Over the course of three days, nearly 800 industry professionals in our community discussed how to tackle the toughest challenges facing the energy sector and collaborated on how to best accelerate the transition to a clean, equitable, and sustainable future. To add to the excitement, CEBA welcomed our new CEO, Rich Powell, who opened the Summit by outlining his vision to take CEBA to new heights. 

Here are our top takeaways from our largest-ever Spring Summit.

1. Despite current grid roadblocks, the clean energy transition continues to gain momentum

Michael Terrell, Sr. Director for Energy and Climate at Google and CEBA Board Chair, reminded us that “10 years ago, there were only 10 customers transacting in large clean energy purchases to decarbonize the grid.” Today, more than 200 clean energy purchasers have collectively contracted for over 700 gigawatts (GW) of clean power. CEBA’s deal tracker expands on this trend; in 2023, 28 U.S. customers made their first-ever clean energy deals, and 12.9 GW of clean energy contracts were announced. The new clean energy capacity that corporate customers announced in 2023 brings the 10-year U.S. total to more than 77 GW. This trend was supported by the Inflation Reduction Act, which enabled the deployment of 280 clean energy projects across 44 states in its first year, representing $282 billion of investment.

2. Corporate action is incremental to progressing clean energy deployment 

CEBA has more than 400 members representing all aspects of the energy industry — and our members account for nearly 1/5 of Fortune 500 companies. Combined, CEBA’s members consume enough energy to rank among the top 25 countries globally in terms of energy consumption.

This makes it clear that those in the room at Summit are on the frontlines of the clean energy transition. A message heard throughout Summit was how the energy sector has grown massively — and “with a bigger sector comes bigger challenges.” Through Spring Summit we bring together the industry experts across the value chain who are best positioned to address these challenges and lay the foundation for a clean and just future for energy.

3. Historically excluded groups must be prioritized in local clean energy decisions and deployment 

The clean energy transition offers an opportunity to achieve a healthier future, but those in marginalized groups are less likely to reap the economic and public health benefits of clean energy and continue to face increased health risks and economic disadvantages from the power sector. 

At Summit, attendees had the opportunity to learn from leaders across this space who are engaging with their local communities to ensure the clean energy transition is inclusive and just. Organizations like ClearLoop and SAGE Development showcased their expertise in this area, highlighting how the world cannot meet net-zero ambitions without addressing global inequalities. 

CEBA Connect: Spring Summit demonstrated the work of non-profit, government, and corporate trailblazers in the industry working to include these communities in the clean energy transition by prioritizing economic empowerment, community engagement, and inclusive solutions. 

4. Clean energy procurement is complicated 

Although clean energy is booming, the event illuminated how the industry still faces major challenges that require complex solutions. Grid reliability, outdated infrastructure, environmental impacts, and energy regulation are all affecting an industry that’s experiencing a huge transformation. It has never been more important for industry professionals to gather and address these challenges head on and use their collective voice to make change.  

Although wind and solar projects continue to break ground, nearly 2,600 GW of generation and storage capacity are actively seeking grid interconnection, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. In addition, we’re seeing unprecedented growth in energy demand across the county as data center power demand is poised to double by 2030. These challenges must be met with resolve from the energy industry and CEBA members to achieve global and national goals. 

5. Creative collaboration across industries can help to achieve a carbon-free future 

Collaboration is paramount in navigating the multifaceted challenges posed by the clean energy transition. It will take actors across the sector pushing to address these obstacles, but with great obstacles come great opportunities. Working together at CEBA Connect events allows our members to amplify their voices and ensure policies align with the goals of the transition, that technical solutions are implemented to modernize the grid, and communities are prioritized in the process. 

Those at Spring Summit saw what collaboration can achieve first-hand through a number of industries coming together for one goal: to create a carbon-free future. 

Continue the conversation

CEBA members can get and stay in touch with connections new and old through CEBA InterConnect. 

Miss us already? Mark your calendar now!

We’re thrilled to be a strategic partner for VERGE 24, accelerating solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time in San Jose, CA, on October 29-31. By collaborating on the VERGE 24 Energy Track, we’re extending our knowledge and expertise to further the clean energy transition amongst new audiences. CEBA members can reserve complimentary exclusive passes now, email education@cebuyers.org for more information.

Did you miss out on CEBA Connect: 2024 Spring Summit? Become a CEBA member today and never miss out on another collaborative community event.

The final countdown is on as CEBA Connect: Spring Summit is — checks notes — NEXT WEEK?!

There’s a lot to be excited about this year, from the breathtaking views at our amazing venue to the loaded agenda with impactful content and lots of time for collaboration. We’re even throwing a birthday party — celebrating five years of CEBA and moving the market forward!

If you’re not registered there is still time! Hop over to the event site to secure your spot before it’s too late (spots are limited and going fast), then come back here for what you need to know to maximize your time in Denver.

Now that we’re all registered and ready to go … It’s almost time to start packing! Before you grab your suitcase, we’ve got five things to know for this year’s event.

1. Hydrate! You may know Denver by its nickname the “Mile High City,” but those of us who live at or closer to sea level may be surprised by what that means when you’re on the ground there. In short, the altitude, combined with Denver’s dry air, can add up to an uncomfortable visit. This is quite easy to mitigate if you make a conscious effort to hydrate in the days leading up to the event and continue to do so throughout your time in Denver. And keep in mind any alcoholic beverages you may choose to consume will hit a little harder 5,280 feet up!
   
2. Download the event app. Everything you need — from venue maps to networking to a build-you-own-agenda function and even your own personal digital business card! — is contained within the EventsGo app. Download and get started today via the AppStore or GooglePlay.
   
3. Plan your time. Details on the agenda can be found in the EventsGo app or on the event site. The agenda is packed full of can’t-miss content featuring CEBA staff — you don’t want to miss meeting our new CEO! — and speakers and panelist across our membership who will share their insights on the current state of the market, its challenges, and how we can collaborate to continue our shared journey toward custom-driven clean energy for all.
   
4. Make time for fun! We are excited to invite all CEBA members to attend our Five Years of Impact celebration Wednesday evening at 5:15. We’ll have light fare and fun as we reflect on the incredible progress CEBA and our members have made together. Oh, and you may want to bring your shades — CEBA stars will be shining bright! (But also, at that time of night the sun will be perfectly positioned to blind you ) Not a bad idea to throw a light sweater or jacket in your bag as well to be prepared for the dip in temperatures when the sun goes down.
   
5. Pack the essentials. We’ve already mentioned two must-haves: water bottles and sunglasses. What else? The Gaylord of the Rockies has a well-stocked gift shop with any essentials you may forget, so no need to stress packing too much! You may want to throw a swimsuit in your bag so you can check out the water park. If you’re a gym junkie like me, don’t forget to pack what you need to spin, run, or lift. Is the spa more your speed? Just pack your reservation number after you book here.  

If you have any questions leading up to CEBA Connect: Spring Summit, reach out to the team at summit@cebuyers.org. We’ll see you in Colorado!

The clean energy transition charged ahead in 2023 as leadership from corporate energy customers continued to accelerate the pace of change. Fifty-five energy customers announced transactions totaling nearly 13 GW of new utility-scale, off-site clean energy in the U.S. last year. This is more than the total wind and solar capacity installed in all but two states — Texas and California¹. The increase happened in spite of a market that has continued struggling to catch up to growing customer demand for new clean power, often due to delays in installing the infrastructure to support it. As the CEBA community looks toward 2024, several indicators show that the market is beginning to catch up and that the momentum behind customer-driven leadership will continue.

The new clean energy capacity that corporate customers announced in 2023 brings the 10-year U.S. total to more than 77 GW, which is more than the total wind and solar capacity of the aforementioned leading states, Texas and California, combined². These two states contain more than a third of all installed clean energy capacity in the U.S. This all doesn’t just exist in fancy press releases. Steel continues to go into the ground, and more than half of this capacity — at least 38 GW — is now operating and producing clean, carbon-free electricity on the grid.

Many customers may survey their options and note what seems like a disconnect between these figures and what is available to them. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) prices continued to rise year over year in key U.S. markets, particularly for solar, which accounted for more than 70% of the corporate-driven volume announced in 2023. Permitting and interconnection challenges continue to snarl projects in large markets such as PJM (the Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Interconnection), although regulatory relief may be on the horizon. Still, the utility-scale solar industry grew 77% over 2022, with a total of 22.5 GW installed, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association³. More options are becoming available to customers, and the best time to act on leadership targets is now. 

Challenges faced by others did not intimidate the 28 customers who announced their first U.S. deal in 2023 — more than half of the total companies transacting last year worked through these complexities for the first time. New and established customers alike have responded by taking advantage of a growing number of options outside the traditional PPA. While PPAs comprised more than 80% of 2022’s announced capacity, that number fell by a quarter in 2023, as volume under utility options increased, alongside record procurements and investments using mechanisms like community solar and tax equity. As tax credit transfer provisions under the Inflation Reduction Act become more available to customers in 2024⁴, and the focus on aligning social and environmental co-benefits with clean energy continues growing⁵, more opportunities for customer leadership in these areas are expected.

These are only some examples of the leadership and innovation being driven by CEBA members, who are behind more than 90% of all customer-driven, utility-scale clean energy deals in the U.S. To learn more, see the full 2023 CEBA Deal Tracker Update, which CEBA members can view on the CEBA InterConnect platform.

Stay tuned for CEBA’s State of the Market report at CEBA Connect: Spring Summit. Registration is now open to join us in Denver, CO, May 22–24. And, throughout the year we will be sharing spotlights on the leadership and innovation being driven by CEBA members in 2024 and beyond.

If you have information about a clean energy project your organization is involved with that you would like to share, please contact the CEBA team at communications@cebuyers.org. All information is kept confidential and is reported in the aggregate only.

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¹ U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2023, September 28). Historical state data. https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/state
² U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2023, September 28). Historical state data. https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/state
³ Solar Energy Industries Association. (2024, March 6). U.S. solar market insight. https://www.seia.org/us-solar-market-insight
⁴ The White House. (2023, September 21). Clean energy tax provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanenergy/clean-energy-tax-provisions
⁵ Clean Energy Buyers Institute. Principles for purpose-driven energy procurement. https://cebi.org/programs/beyond-the-megawatt/principles

What Are Behind-the-Meter and Front-of-Meter Solutions, and Why Do They Matter for Commercial and Industrial Building Owners?

Renewable energy and storage can help commercial building owners tap into a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond meeting sustainability goals, such as boosting financial performance and operational resilience. Producing energy onsite reduces and gives predictability to energy rates, shielding commercial building owners from rising utility costs while opening new revenue streams. To fully capitalize on these benefits, building owners must choose between front-of-meter (FTM) and behind-the-meter (BTM) energy systems. Understanding the nuances of these configurations is key to optimizing profitability and unlocking the full potential of clean energy investments.

FTM vs. BTM: Understanding the Impact on Your Bottom Line

For clean energy solutions, choosing between FTM and BTM systems can significantly impact benefits for property owners. Each system type describes a relationship between where energy is produced and how it’s credited to the end user, based on utility meters and who receives the value of the energy produced. 

FTM systems involve energy production that is injected into the grid on the utility side of the customer’s meter. For instance, the property owner leases a plot of land or rooftop to a solar developer who then finances, installs, and maintains a community solar system. All energy produced onsite is then sold to a utility company who facilitates the issuance of bill credits to the project’s subscribers. The owner receives a site lease payment but does not offset their utility charges or receive renewable energy credits (RECs), which are generally assigned to the utility. 

Unlike FTM systems, BTM systems generate and offset energy onsite, operating behind the utility’s meter. A property owner looking to install a BTM system may choose to partner with companies like Catalyze, which finance, install, and maintain rooftop, ground-mounted, and carport-mounted solar panels and energy storage systems. 

BTM systems can directly offset energy usage and utility charges for facility owners, providing immediate financial benefits. In addition to offsetting energy load, they often reduce transmission, distribution, and demand charges, which can comprise more than half the bill. 

Is BTM or FTM Right for My Commercial Real Estate Building?

For owner-occupied commercial and industrial properties, integrated renewable energy solutions — like BTM systems — usually deliver more value compared to FTM alternatives. This is because of their ability to locally offset energy demand and their potential for REC ownership. While FTM systems offer the advantage of simply generating additional Net Operating Income (NOI) for the asset without the complication of purchasing the energy, ESG benefits to property owners are limited. Since the building owner is not the end user of this energy, this structure is simply a way to generate additional income from an underutilized portion of the asset (the roof). 

In contrast, BTM systems offer a broader spectrum of benefits. They help offset energy usage and utility charges locally and can often include REC ownership allowing benchmark reductions in GHG emissions. BTM configurations can also open new revenue opportunities, such as participating in demand response programs or offering EV charging services to visitors. Pairing them with onsite EV charging stations provides additional property value and user benefits – no small consideration when EVs are projected to comprise 60% of total vehicle sales, over 350 million vehicles, by 2030. 

How to Choose the Right Commercial Real Estate Clean Energy Provider 

Whether considering FTM or BTM, integrating a commercial-scale clean energy and storage system requires a capable integration partner. To ensure a smooth and successful project, from initial quotes and financing to ongoing operations, it’s crucial to partner with a provider that offers a comprehensive solution, exceptional communication, and extensive team experience.

When evaluating potential clean energy providers, look for those that prioritize value creation. The ideal partner will own and operate energy assets, minimizing financial risk for the property owner. To maximize the benefits of your clean energy investment, find providers that offer turnkey solutions and ongoing operation and maintenance services to ensure the system’s profitability and performance over time. This commitment to shared benefits aligns the interests of the provider with those of the property owner, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.

At Catalyze we specialize in developing, financing, and operating renewable energy assets through the entire project lifecycle, offering owners financial and operational benefits without costly upfront expenditures. We are so excited to work with CEBA members to optimize their clean energy investments.

Picture this: You are relaxing by a firepit, watching the sun set over the Rocky Mountains, reflecting on a full day of engaging with influential clean energy leaders. 

We wish we could be there already — but May will be here soon enough! In just two short months those firepit daydreams will become reality as we welcome members to CEBA Connect: Spring Summit. All the movers and shakers in the clean energy community have May 22-24 saved to collaborate on the energy market’s greatest challenges with us in Denver, CO.

Have you registered yet? Go now! Join the CEBA community as we celebrate our five-year anniversary, build common understanding of emerging trends, and advance opportunities to scale clean energy to decarbonize the power sector.

Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center

At the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center you will get to experience the incredible magic of the CEBA community and an amazing venue. In fact, this resort has so much to offer, we encourage you plan ahead and ensure your schedule allows for some R&R! 

Streamline your check-in process with the Mariott Bonvoy app to get a digital room key (and those points too!). Be sure to add your account number when you book your room. 

Beautiful views, lawn games, and pools, are just the beginning. Between the exciting programming and resort amenities, you may not want to leave! The Gaylord of the Rockies boasts seven restaurants and private dining options that offer a variety of choices. We know a day full of networking, learning, and solutions-building can be a lot, so take time to relax by practicing your swing in a Topgolf suite or booking a massage at the spa (be sure to book in advance). In case that isn’t enough, you will have access to a heated outdoor pool, outdoor whirlpool, and adult hot tub.

Explore Aurora

Take time to get off the resort and explore the mountains. Aurora is home to 103 miles of trails. Hike, bike, ride, swim, picnic — you name it. We know CEBA superstar and Denver local Nikki Hodgson’s favorite is horseback riding, give her a shout if you are planning a ride! 

Prefer indoor fun? glow in the dark mini golf may be more your speed. Aurora is also home to an arts and culture district, with both indoor and outdoor things to experience. Ask for a tasting flight at Dry Dock Brewing Company North Dock, Aurora’s first brewery — we heard they do new experimental brews each week. 

Alpine Tips

If it is your first time in Denver, the altitude might catch you off guard. Take precautions beginning three days before your arrival: drink lots of water and eat foods high in potassium. And don’t forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses for the beautiful Denver sunshine! 

Don’t forget it gets chilly at night in the mountains, so be sure to bring warm layers. 

Last but not least, thanks to the altitude, a cocktail in Denver feels different than one on a beach in Florida! Take it slow, we need you bright eyed for those morning sessions. 

Keep an eye here on the CEBA blog, and follow on LinkedIn, for more tips! From packing your bags to planning your day, we’ll cover all the details you need to have a successful trip. 

Become a Clean Energy Champion

Position your brand as a climate action leader as we celebrate five years of CEBA! As a sponsor you’ll gain access to CEBA’s audience of 15,000+ industry stakeholders and global influencers through thought-leadership, marketing, and public relations opportunities. Learn more and reach out today — opportunities are going fast!

—Engage with a network of influential organizations, become a CEBA member today.