Factsheet: White certificate mechanism

White certificates, also known as "energy efficiency certificates" certify the achievement of energy savings in end-use energy through actions and projects to increase energy efficiency. Distributors of electricity and natural gas annually have to reach certain quantities of primary energy savings, expressed in Tons of oil equivalent saved. The distribution companies can carry out its obligation realizing energy efficiency projects entitling white certificates or by purchasing the TEE by other parties in the market receiving energy efficiency certificates from GME. It includes the substitution of fossil fuels with biomass for heat and CHP.