PJM Launches REC-Tracking System

PJM Interconnection has announced that it is launching an environmental-tracking and emissions-attributes tracking system for electric generation in its territory. The data in the system will be used to meet the information disclosure requirements of states’ fuel mix and emissions-disclosure requirements or renewable portfolio standard (RPS) requirements.

PJM Environmental Information Services (EIS) held its introductory meeting for subscribers to its Generation Attributes Tracking System (GATS) on in April 2005. The GATS tracks generation attributes (often referred to as "renewable-energy credits," or "RECs") and the ownership of the attributes as they are traded or used to meet government standards. It creates generator-specific electronic certificates that identify the generation attributes necessary for electricity suppliers to satisfy state policies and to document green power. Data in the GATS include megawatt-hours produced, emissions data, fuel source, location, state program qualification and ownership of attributes for each megawatt-hour tracked. There is one certificate with a unique serial number identifying the attributes of the generation for each megawatt-hour produced.
The functional design of the GATS was developed through collaboration with state utility regulators, state environmental protection offices, state energy offices, consumer advocates, electric market participants, environmental advocates and other stakeholders.

"New Jerseyans are serious about the environment, and they want clean energy," said Jeanne M. Fox, president of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, one of the agencies participating in GATS development. "GATS gives us, as regulators, the effective measure we need to ensure compliance with New Jersey’s renewable portfolio standards."

"It’s exciting to bring this tool to state agencies and electricity producers and suppliers," said Kenneth W. Laughlin, president and chief executive officer of PJM EIS. "For generators GATS provides a means to sell or transfer generation attributes to buyers. For states it provides a means to implement environmental and renewable energy policies and regulations. For load serving entities the system is an effective, efficient means to comply with disclosure and portfolio standards."

Participation in the GATS is by paid subscription. At the initial GATS subscriber group meeting, PJM EIS will review the GATS implementation schedule, the subscription agreement, fee structure and operating rules. The GATS is expected to be operational in the third quarter of this year, according to PJM, and will be available in the area served by the PJM (but initially will be used in New Jersey and Maryland).

(Source: PJM news release, 4/15/05)