San Francisco, CA: The Center for Resource Solutions recently announced that 1.2 million customers in Massachusetts now have the option to purchase Green-e certified electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar, small and low-impact hydro and biomass. Beginning in October, residential and small business customers served by Massachusetts Electric can choose a green power option for a slight premium without having to switch away from their utility. The program, which is called GreenUP, breaks new ground by providing independent green power marketers direct access to utility customers, allowing them to offer brand-name renewable energy products directly through customers' utility bill.

"The Massachusetts GreenUP program will dramatically expand consumer access to green power products," says Gabe Petlin, Green-e Program Manager, "For the first time in Massachusetts, consumers can simply check-off a box on their utility bills to opt for Green-e certified electricity produced from clean, renewable energy resources that benefit the environment and public health." Four suppliers will offer Green-e certified products through Massachusetts GreenUP: Community Energy, MassEnergy, Sterling Planet, and SunPower Electric.

Options will vary according to the type and percentage of the renewable resources and products are priced to fit every budget. The average consumer, who uses 500 kilowatt-hours (KWh) per month, can expect to pay about 2 to 2.5 cents per KWh or $12 to $15 a month more than the standard offer. "The Green-e logo shown next to certified products will help customers easily identify renewable-based energy products that meet strict environmental and consumer protection standards," notes Gabe Petlin.

Launched in 1997, Green-e Energy is the leading voluntary certification and verification program that sets standards for renewable electricity-based products in three markets: restructured, regulated, and tradable renewable certificates (TRCs). Nationally, Green-e currently certifies 53 products that are sold by 93 marketers and utilities. To learn more about products available in Massachusetts and other regions visit www.green-e.org, or call 888.63.GREEN.

About Center for Resource Solutions
Green-e is a Program administered by The Center for Resource Solutions (CRS). CRS makes it easier for families and businesses to understand and use renewable energy that benefits the environment. CRS sponsors national and international programs that support the increased supply and use of renewable energy resources such as wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and low-impact hydroelectric power. To learn more about CRS visit www.resource-solutions.org .