Frequently Asked Questions about ClimateSAVE

Q: What does my purchase of ClimateSAVE really do?
A: Your purchase of ClimateSAVE provides financial support for renewable energy generation, which replaces more polluting, non-renewable sources of energy such as coal and natural gas. The sale of these credits allows more renewable energy facilities to be built and reduces the demand for new fossil fuel generators. By increasing the proportion of renewable energy in the electric grid, ClimateSAVE reduces global greenhouse gas emissions. ClimateSAVE can be used to offset activities that generate greenhouse gases by individuals, businesses, and organizations, such as shipping and transportation, heating and cooling, special events, and other activities.

Q: Is ClimateSAVE a for-profit company?
A: No. ClimateSAVE is owned and sold by Conservation Services Group, a non-profit organization.

Q: Is purchasing ClimateSAVE just an excuse to pollute?
A: No. Each of us has a responsibility to first reduce our own "carbon footprint" (the amount of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from our own activities). However, we recognize that it is not always possible to completely eliminate our individual impact. ClimateSAVE is designed to offset the emissions associated with electricity that cannot otherwise be reduced. By reducing what we can and offsetting what we can't, each of us can become carbon neutral.

Q: Will purchasing ClimateSAVE improve the air quality in my neighborhood/city/area?
A: Unlike many other forms of air pollution, climate change is a global problem, not a local one. The greenhouse effect, which causes global warming, does not distinguish based on where pollution originates. Purchasing ClimateSAVE reduces the amount of global greenhouse gas emissions, and therefore the global impact on climate change. However, it does not necessarily improve local air quality.

Q: Is my ClimateSAVE purchase tax deductable?
A: If you are purchasing ClimateSAVE for your business, you may be able to write it off as a business expense. However, ClimateSAVE is not a registered charity, so most donations cannot be deducted.

Q: Do I own GHG offsets or RECs as a result of my transaction, and can they be used or re-sold for regulatory purposes?
A: Sorry, once you have purchased ClimateSAVE we retire those credits on your behalf. This is one part of ensuring that your purchase makes a real difference.

Q: Should I buy ClimateSAVE instead of using less energy myself?
A: Definitely not. ClimateSAVE is meant to be purchased after you have attempted to reduce your energy use as much as possible.

Q: What other benefits does renewable energy have?
A: In addition not emitting greenhouse gases, renewable energy has a number of benefits. It increases our domestic energy security, reduces our dependence on foreign fuel, and creates domestic, quality jobs.