The phrase "Energy Attribute Certificates" (EACs) is an umbrella term that refers to every type of tradeable certificate carrying energy attributes, with the majority of demand existing for the "renewable" attribute (meaning, tracking energy from a renewable source). Functionally, EACs underpin book and claim traceability mechanisms by serving as tradeable assets: EAC creation (known as issuance) "books" the finite number of attributes that correspond with verified renewable energy production, whilst "claims" (via EAC cancellation) represent end-of-life for an EAC, as the attribute is used permanently. The existence of market demand for EACs classes them as environmental commodities.

EAC types primarily include Guarantees of Origin (GOs), Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs), International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs), and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).