Transparent Energy Sourcing: G-REX Manages Finnish Heating and Cooling Guarantees of Origin

 

In a significant leap towards sustainable energy practices, Finland has taken the lead in tracking the origin of heating and cooling within Europe. Grexel’s registry solution, G-REX, has been chosen to manage Finnish Heating and Cooling Guarantees of Origin (GOs)* from April 1, 2022. This initiative, operated by the Finnish Energy Authority**, marks a notable milestone in the region’s commitment to transparent and eco-friendly energy sourcing for heating and cooling.  

Swift Project Implementation 

Despite a demanding timeline, the entire project, from contract award to go-live, was completed in less than three months. This swift execution is a testament to the efficiency and expertise brought to the project by Grexel. 

Compliance with EU Directives 

The deployment of the GO registry aligns with the rigorous standards set forth by the European Union, encompassing compliance with the European Energy Certificate System (EECS) and the Directive on Renewable Energy (RED II). 

Expert Insights: The Crucial Role of Collaboration 

Maiju Seppälä, the leading expert at the Finnish Energy Agency, affirms the importance of a flexible and experienced partner in this project. Grexel’s active collaboration and profound industry knowledge ensured a smooth commencement of operations, which is critical in an emerging market like Guarantees of Origin for heating and cooling.  

Driving Environmental Impact: Redefining Energy Consumption 

Given that heating constitutes a substantial portion of Finnish energy consumption, the implementation of this registry solution is expected to have far-reaching effects. In 2020, space heating alone accounted for 26% of the final energy consumption in Finland. 

Empowering Choices: The Future of Energy Decision-Making 

Both Seppälä and Markus Klimscheffskij, the CEO of Grexel, look forward to the heightened transparency and clarity that the new registry will bring to the sector. They emphasize how the regulated marketing of renewable heating and cooling, along with waste heat and cold from July onwards, will empower consumers to make informed choices regarding the origin of their heating and cooling energy. 

This shift not only promotes environmental sustainability but also empowers consumers to align their energy choices with their values. It establishes a clear framework for comparing heating and cooling products, enabling consumers to make conscious decisions. This project both showcases Finland’s dedication to sustainable energy and highlights Grexel’s expertise in tackling complex industry challenges. The collaboration between Grexel and the Finnish Energy Authority lays the foundation for a greener, more transparent energy future. 

*Guarantees of Origin serve as a pivotal tracking mechanism, providing evidence of electricity origin. This, in turn, enables energy users to consume energy specifically from renewable sources instead of an average generation mix. Such certification and tracking is instrumental in advancing the production and consumption of environmentally friendly electricity, bolstering traceability and fostering increased investments in renewable energy. 

**The Finnish Energy Authority regulates and promotes operation of the electricity and gas markets, emission reductions, energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy.