HKN certificate of origin for electricity – Swiss Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) regulation regarding the certification of the means of production and the origin of electricity
For non-photovoltaic systems with a nominal alternating current output of no more than 30 kVA and photovoltaic systems over 100 kW, certification is only permitted by accredited auditors from the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS).
The certification of the systems must be carried out by an auditor accredited by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS) for the relevant specialist area. The certification must be carried out as part of an on-site audit and examination of the documents submitted.
Accreditation by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS)
Recognised internationally for access to markets worldwide
We have been certifying management systems since 1983
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Proof of the type of production and origin of electricity
The certification is a decisive step towards transparency, market integration and the promotion of renewable energies in Switzerland and beyond.
Target groups of HKN
The HKN Electricity Certificate of Origin applies to renewable energy power plants that generate electricity from the following sources: hydropower, biomass, geothermal energy, wind power and photovoltaics.
Validity period of the certificate
The HKN Electricity Certificate of Origin is time-limited and must be renewed regularly to ensure the correctness and eligibility of the system. Operators should find out about expiry dates and necessary re-audits in good time.
Recognition of the SQS certificate
The HKN Electricity Certificate of Origin is nationally and internationally recognised and tradable. The HKNs are based on the European Energy Certificate Standard ‘EECS’ and fulfil the requirements of European legislation. The SQS service is accredited to the highest standards by the SAS.
Responsible for the product and there for you
Adrian Bretscher
Do you have any questions about the standard or our service? Would you like to know more about the certification process and the costs? Or may we provide you with a concrete offer for the certification?
We are happy to help you. Our account management team and I, as the product manager, will be happy to forward your questions to our experienced auditors. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to access certified management systems.
Please let us know how we can support you. We look forward to hearing from you!
Kind regards
Adrian Bretscher
Transparency and credibility
Through official certification and recording in the certificate of origin system, the source of the electricity is fully documented. This increases the confidence of customers, authorities and investors in your energy generation and promotes a sustainable image.
Access to funding programs and sales markets
In many cases, a valid HKN plant certification is a prerequisite for claiming subsidies or for participating in national and international trading with green electricity certificates. This allows you to tap into additional revenue potential.
Avoiding double marketing and legal certainty
The centralised recording of production volumes in the HKN system ensures that ecological added value can only be sold once. This protects your company from legal and financial risks and creates clear conditions in electricity labelling.
How long does it take to obtain an HKN plant certification?
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The duration depends on factors such as the size of the plant, the complexity of the measuring systems and the degree of preparation. Clear documentation and well-prepared measurement and system data speed up the process.
How often does a HKN certification have to be renewed?
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The plant certification is valid indefinitely for plants below 300 kW and for 5 years for plants above 300 kW. Production certification takes place at regular intervals (monthly, quarterly or annually) by reporting the amount of electricity generated in the HKN system.
What are the costs associated with HKN certification?
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The costs vary depending on the size, complexity and location of the system. We would be happy to provide you with a customised offer tailored to your needs.
Does SQS also offer consultancy services?
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No, our core competence is certification resp. attestation. However, if required, we are happy to connect you with external experts or organise training courses so that you can optimally prepare for the procedure.
How can a plant operator check the validity of a HKN certificate?
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After certification, your plant is recorded in the HKN system (managed by Pronovo). A unique identification number enables interested parties (e.g. purchasers of green electricity) to check the validity and your registered production data.
Can an electricity producer have several certifications at the same time?
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Yes, for example, an operator can also strive for an ISO 50001 certification for energy management in addition to the HKN certification. Common processes or documentation can be incorporated into an integrated management system.
What happens if a company does not fulfil the requirements of the HKN ordinance?
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If non-conformities are identified during the audit, the company is given a deadline to make the necessary corrections. No certification or its continuation can be issued without successful implementation.
How HKN interacts with other energy management systems such as ISO 50001?
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Both approaches can complement each other perfectly. While ISO 50001 describes a comprehensive energy management system, HKN ensures legally compliant and traceable documentation of the origin of electricity. An integrated management system reduces the administrative workload.
What role does Pronovo play in HKN certification?
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Pronovo operates the national certificate of origin system. After successful certification by SQS or another recognised body, the production data is stored in the system. Pronovo thus provides the central platform for trading in certificates of origin.
How does an HKN certification contribute to the corporate image?
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An HKN certificate proves that you generate your energy from transparent, accurately documented sources. This strengthens the trust of electricity customers, investors and authorities and promotes your image as a sustainable and responsible provider.