This introductory session offers a valuable opportunity for delegates seeking to strengthen their understanding of Energy Attribute Certificate (EAC) systems and markets, whether they are new to the RECS community or simply looking for a refresher. The event will begin with a networking lunch, allowing participants to connect with peers ahead of the RECS Market Meeting.

The Pre-conference academy session will introduce the fundamentals of EAC systems and explain how they enable credible market claims. Participants will also gain insight into how EACs relate to the evolving reporting landscape, including the GHG Protocol Scope 2 revision and reporting requirements under the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), particularly ESRS E1.

Designed to replace the introductory sessions from previous events, this Pre-conference academy session will prepare delegates to engage more fully in the debate-format discussions during the main conference days.

12.00-13.30 Pre-conference delegates’ lunch 

13.30-17.00 Pre-conference academy session 

Please note that the pre-conference academy session requires separate registration, and the fee for this session, which includes lunch, is €100 plus VAT. 

This opening keynote session will establish the tone and standard for the conference's new approach to addressing the significant issues facing renewables markets. In this session, one group of speakers will argue that voluntary markets are already providing significant benefits to the energy transition, while another group will contend that only compliance mechanisms can create the rapid impact necessary for a successful switch to renewables. The moderator will summarise the debate and invite delegates to continue the discussion into the conference’s first networking break.  

Is the question of strict annual matching a distraction from larger and more urgent issues? Could it be a revolutionary change that helps bring balance to the EAC markets, particularly in Europe? In addition to engaging in a lively discussion, conference attendees will gain significant insights during this session, as speakers present arguments for each side of the debate and support their viewpoints with solid evidence. 

In the conference's first renewable gas session, delegates will hear from two sets of skilled speakers. They will debate the role of various biomethane certificate schemes and markets, or whether confusion undermines these markets, suggesting that we should instead opt for one 'super' certificate to cover all uses. Delegates will have the opportunity to learn about the expanding biomethane market and its potential future developments, both positive and negative.

Should green gas be used for immediate benefits in transport and heating, or should it facilitate green electrification through biomethane power generation? Speakers in this session will examine the potential of both options by debating the merits and flaws of each approach. To engage delegates with their viewpoint, speakers will present informative and evidence-based points, followed by a summary from the moderator.

The question of deliverability plays an important role in the revision of international standards related to EACs. Some argue that to claim the use of renewable energy, it must fulfil certain conditions for deliverability. Others argue that the term "deliverability" is a misnomer that undermines book-and-claim systems and market principles. In this session, attendees will hear from excellent speakers representing both sides of the debate, and whether their views are challenged or reinforced, delegates will undoubtedly leave better informed.

Considering the substantial effort involved in developing various international standards related to EACs, this question may seem unusual. On one hand, one could argue that major standards such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol define the market's role and impact. However, it can be argued that EAC markets are already mature and might overlook excessively stringent standards. Delegates will have the opportunity to form their own opinions after hearing experts present the arguments for each side.  

In this session, speakers will revisit the debate between market and location-based scope 2 accounting methods and discuss the role of dual reporting. Delegates will hear advocates for each position make a compelling case for their viewpoints, supported by experience and industry insight. By the end of the session, delegates will have the information and tools they need to continue the conversation throughout the conference and beyond.

To wrap up the first day of the conference, the RECS Board and Secretariat will reflect on the conference thus far, with a particular focus on the central theme of ‘Now or Never – Renewables markets at a crossroads.’ The RECS team will also update delegates on what the association has achieved in the past year, as well as the organisation’s plans and objectives for the future. Most importantly, we will also take the opportunity to thank the conference’s sponsors, without whom the event would not be possible. This high-level session concludes Day 1 of the conference and aims to generate plenty of topics for discussion during the evening’s social events. 

Full consumption disclosure remains RECS' primary policy for advancing EAC markets to the next level. We have had a positive impact; Europe is home to several countries with full consumption disclosure, and many stakeholders have embraced this position as their own. However, we have not convinced everyone. Some still believe that full consumption disclosure goes too far and that EAC systems and markets should focus solely on renewables. Delegates will hear both this perspective and the alternative position that EAC markets are inherently limited without full consumption disclosure.

The landscape for hydrogen can be complex and varied. Delegates attending this session will listen to knowledgeable speakers debate whether all zero and low-carbon hydrogen represents a step in the right direction or if only truly renewable hydrogen can aid the energy transition. The speakers in this session will seek to provide clarity while persuading delegates of the merits of their point of view.

In this session, delegates will hear opposing opinions. Some expert speakers will make the case that only public support can effectively ‘push’ the delivery of more renewable energy. Others will argue that without consumer demand for renewables providing a market 'pull,' the transition would slow or stall. Delegates will have the opportunity to hear from both sides and decide which makes the more convincing argument, or whether the energy transition must maximise all tools in the interest of both people and the planet.

Revising international standards related to EACs has centred around the debate over accuracy and the question of EAC matching granularity. In this session, delegates will hear arguments for yearly or monthly matching as practical and effective options, as well as the case that hourly matching can best accelerate the energy transition. At the end of this timely session, everyone will leave with a better understanding of the pros and cons of each position.  

To conclude the RECS Market Meeting 2026, we will reflect on the conference overall and consider whether we have a clearer understanding of the fundamental questions: Do voluntary renewables markets effectively support the energy transition we need? One group of speakers in this session will contend that EACs will have only a marginal impact. The other will argue that although renewables markets are imperfect, they are already impactful and can achieve more if given the opportunity. Delegates will leave this session and the conference energised and informed to advocate for and succeed in advancing renewables markets.