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RFP Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: The first quality requirement states that "indirect emission reductions from energy generation are not eligible". Would this requirement catch fuel switching projects where the project proponent has switched away from grid-purchased electricity to generating their own natural gas-fired power?
   
   A: This would not be eligible because the emissions are indirect. In the case where the emission reductions are indirect (i.e. reducing the consumption of electricity), a consumer of electricity does not directly emit carbon, but the utility creating that electricity does. As a result, the utility would see a potential reduction in the burning of fossil fuel, and would own any resulting direct carbon reductions. As NC GreenPower is buying carbon offsets, we must buy from the actual owner of those reductions; ideally, we are looking for cases where a facility is going out of its way to create these reductions (see criterion number 2 relating to additionality and projects being beyond business as usual). A clear example would be a landfill that captures its methane gas on a voluntary basis.
2. Q: I would like to propose energy efficiency carbon offsets for projects we have completed in the North Carolina area, but am not sure if they will qualify. Can you please let me know the intent of the exclusion of indirect emission reductions so I will be able to understand if the offsets we have developed in North Carolina would be acceptable?
   
   A: Please see the answer to the first question. We do not accept indirect carbon offsets because the reduction is assumed, but not absolute; in addition, the likely owner of those reductions will be the electric utility.
3. Q: In section 2.8, Verified and Verifiable, it says "Copies of all verification reports and supporting documentation/materials (e.g., project protocols or design documents) must be provided." Do you need this documentation now, or if we are selected?
   
   A: While we do not need specific verification documentation to select the proposal, we need both assurance of the methodology and assurance that it has or will be done in the proposal.