Every second counts

Carbon-free claims made by corporate offtakers have come under fire as critics argue accounting based on annual energy consumption is a poor reflection of what’s really happening on energy grids. New emissions standards, growing markets for round-the-clock clean power, and increased energy storage deployment are all set to bring 24/7 carbon-free energy closer to reality.

By

Matthew Lynas

06 Mar 2026

Corporates seeking round-the-clock clean power will need to take a portfolio approach to energy procurement, with hybrid plants and PPAs likely to play an increasingly large role. | Image: Enel Green Power Chile

No sunshine, no wind, but a factory is running on 100% renewable energy. It’s a mirage. This is how standard carbon accounting works, but things could soon change. The annual matching rules that allow energy retailers and offtakers to claim 100% renewable energy supply – provided they buy enough renewable energy certificates to cover usage …

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