A New Simple Test for Green
Back in July, I blogged about a simple test that environmentally conscious consumers could use to separate the truly green companies from those that merely use green as a marketing ploy or green washing. I’m proud to say that Clean Currents has recently taken a step to draw an even brighter line between our actions and sustainability commitment as a company vs. those in our industry who merely talk a good green game.
Clean Currents achieved certification as a “B Corp.”
This is a huge step. B Corp certification, run by the non profit group, B Lab, is one of the most stringent sustainability certification models in the nation. We are the first company in Montgomery County, and the fourth in the entire state of Maryland to achieve this advanced certification.
Being a certified B Corp means we are subject to a third party audit to verify the sustainability of our business practice. The B Corp web site best describes what this certification means:
Certified B Corporations are a new type of corporation which uses the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. B Corps are unlike traditional businesses because they:
• Meet comprehensive and transparent social and environmental performance standards;
• Meet higher legal accountability standards;
• Build business constituency for good business
There are currently no other energy companies in Maryland, DC, Pennsylvania or Delaware that are certified as a B Corporation. Clean Currents is the only one. We are proud of that and will continue to work to live up to the expectations that come with this designation. Check out more about B Corp HERE.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Competitive Markets and Wind Power are a Great Match
The American Wind Energy Association recently put out a statement supporting competitive wholesale electricity markets. It’s great to see the nation’s premier wind industry association take a positive stand on the kind of market structure we have here in the Mid Atlantic (with the exception of Virginia). Clean Currents supports the rapid deployment of wind energy in our region and the continuation (and growth) of competitive energy markets. Consumers and the environment both benefit from our open markets.
According to a joint AWEA/Compete statement, nearly 80% of U.S. installed wind capacity is located in regions with competitive energy markets, yet these areas only have 44% of U.S. wind energy potential. A competitive energy market is a market where consumers have the ability to choose their electricity supplier. The utilities don’t control the entire chain of production of electricity, from generation through distribution. The opposite, a monopoly market, is where the incumbent utility controls everything and consumers (and generators) have no choice but to go with them. In Maryland, DC, Delaware, and Pennsylvania we are fortunate to have an open, competitive market.
It’s not surprising that a competitive market is better for wind energy development. The incumbent utilities, if they are in a monopoly with no competition, are not the best vehicles to help development alternative energy. They don’t know how to sell or market it, and they are in no rush to invest in it. In short, they are not innovators.
Companies like Clean Currents are constantly thinking of new ways to expand the clean energy market. Given the right market structure, with proper government incentives, we can develop even more wind power in this region. We are excited to be working with Governor O’Malley and other leaders to craft proposals that will bring offshore wind closer to reality. That’s part of our business model – building demand for green power and working on positive environmental legislation. We are going to push a model that will promote more wind power while building on the success of the competitive energy market. The two go hand in hand.
The American Wind Energy Association recently put out a statement supporting competitive wholesale electricity markets. It’s great to see the nation’s premier wind industry association take a positive stand on the kind of market structure we have here in the Mid Atlantic (with the exception of Virginia). Clean Currents supports the rapid deployment of wind energy in our region and the continuation (and growth) of competitive energy markets. Consumers and the environment both benefit from our open markets.
According to a joint AWEA/Compete statement, nearly 80% of U.S. installed wind capacity is located in regions with competitive energy markets, yet these areas only have 44% of U.S. wind energy potential. A competitive energy market is a market where consumers have the ability to choose their electricity supplier. The utilities don’t control the entire chain of production of electricity, from generation through distribution. The opposite, a monopoly market, is where the incumbent utility controls everything and consumers (and generators) have no choice but to go with them. In Maryland, DC, Delaware, and Pennsylvania we are fortunate to have an open, competitive market.
It’s not surprising that a competitive market is better for wind energy development. The incumbent utilities, if they are in a monopoly with no competition, are not the best vehicles to help development alternative energy. They don’t know how to sell or market it, and they are in no rush to invest in it. In short, they are not innovators.
Companies like Clean Currents are constantly thinking of new ways to expand the clean energy market. Given the right market structure, with proper government incentives, we can develop even more wind power in this region. We are excited to be working with Governor O’Malley and other leaders to craft proposals that will bring offshore wind closer to reality. That’s part of our business model – building demand for green power and working on positive environmental legislation. We are going to push a model that will promote more wind power while building on the success of the competitive energy market. The two go hand in hand.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Building Demand for Green from the Ground Up
Clean Currents just wrapped up our first Green Neighborhood Challenge (GNEC) and we’re launching right into GNEC 2 without missing a beat! Our experience and the response we got in GNEC 1 has taught us that we have tapped into something powerful in the public consciousness. People are looking for connections, commitment and financial help for their communities. Clean Currents is looking to build demand for green energy solutions from the ground up. Enter GNEC, which steps into the void left by antiseptic corporate marketing, social disconnect, lack of resources, and lack of meaningful national government action on the biggest environmental challenge of our generation – global climate change. Marketing from the ground up, meeting people where they are rather than where you (the company) are, is the essence of GNEC.
Connections
The premise of GNEC is that Clean Currents provides an organizing tool (wind power for homes and solar), which allows people of various communities to connect with each other, build stronger community bonds, and strengthen community spirit. By “community,” we mean any grouping of people who share a commonality. This could be a neighborhood, a town, a faith institution, a non profit group, a school, a union, a bridge club. In simple terms, we give community leaders something to talk about. In an ideal GNEC situation, there would be multiple social events (especially parties!), outward signs of participations in the community (lawn signs, etc.) and participation by a strong, core group of volunteers. This includes online social media.
Commitment
For GNEC 2 to succeed, we need to build beyond the focus of GNEC 1. We need to continue to push the message about people switching to wind or solar power for their homes. But we also need to translate into actions our words about Clean Currents being “a front door to a sustainable lifestyle.” This means that wind power for homes or solar installation is merely the hook to get people talking about a larger conversation. That larger conversation is centered on the need to reduce our environmental impact, improve the laws in our states and this nation, and changing some of our habits as consumers. Clean Currents is committed to helping pass positive environmental legislation that puts a price on carbon emissions and mandates reductions in greenhouse gases. If you sign up your community for GNEC 2, we are committed to bringing our partners and allies to your community, to help educate people about reducing their environmental impact. This includes recycling, composting, energy efficiency, car sharing, and a host of other ways to lead a more sustainable life. Finally, Clean Currents wants to help consumers learn about the many companies out there that offer green products, and more importantly, that operate as sustainable companies. It’s vital that consumers vote with their wallets by supporting businesses that are doing the right thing.
Financial Help
The financial component of GNEC should not be under valued. Clean Currents is providing real dollars to communities to help them pursue green projects or to support green advocacy/education groups. In GNEC 1, we will be donating more than $15,000 in total. For GNEC 2, we want to double that. Individual consumers should also see financial incentives for participation. Thus, Clean Currents offers reduced prices on solar installations for customers that are already wind powered. It’s kind of like a co-op, where communities band together to achieve better pricing for individual members of the community.
Conclusion
We at Clean Currents are only just scratching the surface on community level marketing right now, but already I can tell there is something powerful there. We are not perfect, and are learning from our mistakes along the way. However, by working with community leaders and getting real feedback from people we can build a powerful community of people, businesses, and other groups working to create demand for clean energy from the ground up.
Clean Currents just wrapped up our first Green Neighborhood Challenge (GNEC) and we’re launching right into GNEC 2 without missing a beat! Our experience and the response we got in GNEC 1 has taught us that we have tapped into something powerful in the public consciousness. People are looking for connections, commitment and financial help for their communities. Clean Currents is looking to build demand for green energy solutions from the ground up. Enter GNEC, which steps into the void left by antiseptic corporate marketing, social disconnect, lack of resources, and lack of meaningful national government action on the biggest environmental challenge of our generation – global climate change. Marketing from the ground up, meeting people where they are rather than where you (the company) are, is the essence of GNEC.
Connections
The premise of GNEC is that Clean Currents provides an organizing tool (wind power for homes and solar), which allows people of various communities to connect with each other, build stronger community bonds, and strengthen community spirit. By “community,” we mean any grouping of people who share a commonality. This could be a neighborhood, a town, a faith institution, a non profit group, a school, a union, a bridge club. In simple terms, we give community leaders something to talk about. In an ideal GNEC situation, there would be multiple social events (especially parties!), outward signs of participations in the community (lawn signs, etc.) and participation by a strong, core group of volunteers. This includes online social media.
Commitment
For GNEC 2 to succeed, we need to build beyond the focus of GNEC 1. We need to continue to push the message about people switching to wind or solar power for their homes. But we also need to translate into actions our words about Clean Currents being “a front door to a sustainable lifestyle.” This means that wind power for homes or solar installation is merely the hook to get people talking about a larger conversation. That larger conversation is centered on the need to reduce our environmental impact, improve the laws in our states and this nation, and changing some of our habits as consumers. Clean Currents is committed to helping pass positive environmental legislation that puts a price on carbon emissions and mandates reductions in greenhouse gases. If you sign up your community for GNEC 2, we are committed to bringing our partners and allies to your community, to help educate people about reducing their environmental impact. This includes recycling, composting, energy efficiency, car sharing, and a host of other ways to lead a more sustainable life. Finally, Clean Currents wants to help consumers learn about the many companies out there that offer green products, and more importantly, that operate as sustainable companies. It’s vital that consumers vote with their wallets by supporting businesses that are doing the right thing.
Financial Help
The financial component of GNEC should not be under valued. Clean Currents is providing real dollars to communities to help them pursue green projects or to support green advocacy/education groups. In GNEC 1, we will be donating more than $15,000 in total. For GNEC 2, we want to double that. Individual consumers should also see financial incentives for participation. Thus, Clean Currents offers reduced prices on solar installations for customers that are already wind powered. It’s kind of like a co-op, where communities band together to achieve better pricing for individual members of the community.
Conclusion
We at Clean Currents are only just scratching the surface on community level marketing right now, but already I can tell there is something powerful there. We are not perfect, and are learning from our mistakes along the way. However, by working with community leaders and getting real feedback from people we can build a powerful community of people, businesses, and other groups working to create demand for clean energy from the ground up.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Where’s the Energy in the Elections?
The recent primary elections in Maryland set a record for low voter turnout in some parts of the state. There’s a total lack of energy among voters. I hope that between now and November 2nd, things change for the better. Voter turnout will be the deciding factor in many races across the region. If the pro environment voters stays home, we may have a major post-election hangover on November 3rd. Good clean energy laws that make a real difference are not necessarily permanent. They are always at risk of being reversed.
So, how do we get the energy back in the election? First, we have to do our civic duty and become educated, informed voters. That means checking out what groups like the Maryland League of Conservation Voters have to say about candidates. They are non partisan and focus solely on environmental issues. If you see or talk to a candidate, ask him/her about clean energy and the environment. Donate money, if you can, to pro clean energy candidates. Once you’ve energized and educated yourself, get the word out to your friends and neighbors. Use Facebook. Use the phone. Volunteer to go door to door for your local candidate.
It’s so easy to fall into the cynical view that “all the bums are the same.” Yes, our system needs major reform to have our elected representatives better reflect the views of their constituents and not of the groups that fund their campaigns. But elections do matter when it comes to clean energy policy. We’ve made huge strides in Maryland and DC on clean energy and environmental legislation. Pennsylvania’s outgoing Governor has a record that matches the best of any other leader. But these gains can be easily reversed. To get to a cleaner, greener future, we need human energy from voters this November. Staying home is not an option.
So, how do we get the energy back in the election? First, we have to do our civic duty and become educated, informed voters. That means checking out what groups like the Maryland League of Conservation Voters have to say about candidates. They are non partisan and focus solely on environmental issues. If you see or talk to a candidate, ask him/her about clean energy and the environment. Donate money, if you can, to pro clean energy candidates. Once you’ve energized and educated yourself, get the word out to your friends and neighbors. Use Facebook. Use the phone. Volunteer to go door to door for your local candidate.
It’s so easy to fall into the cynical view that “all the bums are the same.” Yes, our system needs major reform to have our elected representatives better reflect the views of their constituents and not of the groups that fund their campaigns. But elections do matter when it comes to clean energy policy. We’ve made huge strides in Maryland and DC on clean energy and environmental legislation. Pennsylvania’s outgoing Governor has a record that matches the best of any other leader. But these gains can be easily reversed. To get to a cleaner, greener future, we need human energy from voters this November. Staying home is not an option.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Go (Green) Back to School
There’s a lot riding on the shoulders of the students in Maryland, DC, Delaware, Pennsylvania and the rest of the nation who are beginning a new school year. Sure, they have the usual academic and social challenges that have beguiled students over the years. But they have an added challenge – figuring out a way to get this nation to seriously fight global climate change. Their elders have failed them. The Congress has let yet another year go by without passing any kind of cap on carbon and the other greenhouse gases that cause climate change. The general public doesn’t seem to have any burning desire to actually solve the problem. It will likely take a new generation making a push to actually get anything done at the national level. That’s where the students come in.
Recycled paper and eco friendly school supplies only get you so far. The next step for students is to join their school’s green club. If the school doesn’t have one yet, form one. Every high school in the Mid Atlantic should have a green club. The green club should push students, teachers, and the school administration to adopt practices that reduce their carbon footprints, whether it’s switching to wind power, installing solar, getting more energy efficient, or other measures. That’s step one. Step two is to bring climate education into the curriculum. Green clubs can work with the Alliance for Climate Education (ACE) or other groups to do this. Step three is to have the green club act as a driving force to push for local or national legislation to cap and cut greenhouse gases. Students may be too young to vote, but they bring something that candidates for office need almost as much – energy, time, and a megaphone. Organized campaigns by green clubs can have an impact on how local politicians vote. I’m sure of it. Finally, step three is to unite forces. High school green clubs should work together to promote a common message and share resources. It’s far more effective that way.
Clean Currents will be doing our part to help these efforts. Our Green Neighborhood Challenge Two will have a special school division, so we can focus our efforts on supporting the work of green clubs. We are also going to partner with ACE to bring more serious climate education into the schools. We also want to act as a facilatator for green clubs working together, making sure best practices and messages are shared.
Young people have made a lot of changes in our history, it's time for them to step up again.
If you are, or you know a student going to High School this year, let us know how we can help. Simply email gogreen@cleancurrents.com.
Recycled paper and eco friendly school supplies only get you so far. The next step for students is to join their school’s green club. If the school doesn’t have one yet, form one. Every high school in the Mid Atlantic should have a green club. The green club should push students, teachers, and the school administration to adopt practices that reduce their carbon footprints, whether it’s switching to wind power, installing solar, getting more energy efficient, or other measures. That’s step one. Step two is to bring climate education into the curriculum. Green clubs can work with the Alliance for Climate Education (ACE) or other groups to do this. Step three is to have the green club act as a driving force to push for local or national legislation to cap and cut greenhouse gases. Students may be too young to vote, but they bring something that candidates for office need almost as much – energy, time, and a megaphone. Organized campaigns by green clubs can have an impact on how local politicians vote. I’m sure of it. Finally, step three is to unite forces. High school green clubs should work together to promote a common message and share resources. It’s far more effective that way.
Clean Currents will be doing our part to help these efforts. Our Green Neighborhood Challenge Two will have a special school division, so we can focus our efforts on supporting the work of green clubs. We are also going to partner with ACE to bring more serious climate education into the schools. We also want to act as a facilatator for green clubs working together, making sure best practices and messages are shared.
Young people have made a lot of changes in our history, it's time for them to step up again.
If you are, or you know a student going to High School this year, let us know how we can help. Simply email gogreen@cleancurrents.com.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
A Simple Test for Green
Consumers who care about the environment are a prime target of green washing, fake "green" companies. This is no surprise. Environmentally conscious consumers are generally well educated and well off. They are a great target market and thus tempting to companies that might otherwise have no green interest (environmental "green," that is).
You have to do a little additional homework to separate the truly green companies from the green washers. I propose this simple three part test to figure out who talks "green" and who actually walks "green:"
1. Does the company only offer green products or is a green product part of a group of products, including polluting products?
Are they promoting "wind power" on the one hand, while selling massive amounts of coal or nuclear power on the other hand?
2. Are the company's operations certified as being sustainable by a legitimate third party entity, which performs an actual on-site audit?
For example, when Clean Currents got certified by Montgomery County Maryland's Department of Environmental Protection, we had auditors visit our office to ensure we are doing everything we claimed we were. Any kind of "green registry" that does not require a third party audit is worthless.
3. Does the company work with advocacy groups to support environmental legislation beyond legislation that would directly improve the company's business?
A solar company that advocates for increased solar incentives does not count. That's pure self interest. But companies like Clean Currents that push for broad legislation that reduces carbon emissions, or that cleans up the Bay make a real difference beyond their immediate self interest.
So, if a company claims they are sustainable on their web site, ask them for proof. If they say they donate money to non profits, or support planting trees or something like that, tell them that's not enough. Even Exxon Mobil donates to charities like that. The true test is what are they doing to change the laws of this nation (or of their home states or cities)? Voluntary green actions are great, and they are important in terms of making a difference. Environmental consumers have the power to change the way business is done, to ensure that every company becomes a true green minded entity instead of a green washer trying to make a quick buck on the latest fad. By purchasing products only from green companies that pass the simple green test, you are ensuring that there will be a growing industry of truly green businesses that protect the planet while protecting their bottom line.
You have to do a little additional homework to separate the truly green companies from the green washers. I propose this simple three part test to figure out who talks "green" and who actually walks "green:"
1. Does the company only offer green products or is a green product part of a group of products, including polluting products?
Are they promoting "wind power" on the one hand, while selling massive amounts of coal or nuclear power on the other hand?
2. Are the company's operations certified as being sustainable by a legitimate third party entity, which performs an actual on-site audit?
For example, when Clean Currents got certified by Montgomery County Maryland's Department of Environmental Protection, we had auditors visit our office to ensure we are doing everything we claimed we were. Any kind of "green registry" that does not require a third party audit is worthless.
3. Does the company work with advocacy groups to support environmental legislation beyond legislation that would directly improve the company's business?
A solar company that advocates for increased solar incentives does not count. That's pure self interest. But companies like Clean Currents that push for broad legislation that reduces carbon emissions, or that cleans up the Bay make a real difference beyond their immediate self interest.
So, if a company claims they are sustainable on their web site, ask them for proof. If they say they donate money to non profits, or support planting trees or something like that, tell them that's not enough. Even Exxon Mobil donates to charities like that. The true test is what are they doing to change the laws of this nation (or of their home states or cities)? Voluntary green actions are great, and they are important in terms of making a difference. Environmental consumers have the power to change the way business is done, to ensure that every company becomes a true green minded entity instead of a green washer trying to make a quick buck on the latest fad. By purchasing products only from green companies that pass the simple green test, you are ensuring that there will be a growing industry of truly green businesses that protect the planet while protecting their bottom line.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Pennsylvania’s Future Could Be Sunny - Act Now
The Pennsylvania legislature is considering a bill (HB 2405) that would dramatically increase the amount of solar in the state, plus provide new demand for clean, renewable wind power. If passed, this legislation will once again cement the Keystone state as a national clean energy leader. Clean Currents is proud to be supporting this vital bill.
The bill would increase the percentage of energy that must be produced by solar energy in the state six-fold, creating enough solar energy to power more than 400,000 homes. It would practically double the amount of energy coming from wind power or clean biomass. It would also provide additional consumer protections and extend the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (AEPS) out until 2024.
Importantly, this is a bi-partisan effort. Clean energy should not be held hostage to politics, and it’s good to see that in Pennsylvania there is support from both sides of the aisle.
The fate of the bill is uncertain, however. So, if you live in Pennsylvania, please take action immediately!
Click here to go to Penn Future’s web page and contact your legislator. Ask them to support HB 2405, for a cleaner, greener future in Pennsylvania.
Clean Currents is proud to be offering wind power for homes and businesses now in Pennsylvania. We would be even more interested in opening an office for solar energy installation if this bill passes.
The bill would increase the percentage of energy that must be produced by solar energy in the state six-fold, creating enough solar energy to power more than 400,000 homes. It would practically double the amount of energy coming from wind power or clean biomass. It would also provide additional consumer protections and extend the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (AEPS) out until 2024.
Importantly, this is a bi-partisan effort. Clean energy should not be held hostage to politics, and it’s good to see that in Pennsylvania there is support from both sides of the aisle.
The fate of the bill is uncertain, however. So, if you live in Pennsylvania, please take action immediately!
Click here to go to Penn Future’s web page and contact your legislator. Ask them to support HB 2405, for a cleaner, greener future in Pennsylvania.
Clean Currents is proud to be offering wind power for homes and businesses now in Pennsylvania. We would be even more interested in opening an office for solar energy installation if this bill passes.
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