How to Buy Renewable Energy from Your Electric Utility
As fossil fuels continue to warm our planet, many eco-conscious consumers are looking for ways to purchase electricity from renewable sources without having to install solar panels or windmills at home. The good news is, yes, it’s possible!
Can Everyone Buy Green Energy?
While buying renewable energy is an option, it’s not available to everyone. Plus, it often costs a bit more. Here’s what you need to know.
Not Many People Know They Can Buy Green Energy
Renewable energy sources like wind, solar, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass made up about 21% of the U.S. electricity generation in 2023, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Most of our energy—around 60%—still comes from fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, and oil. These sources release carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere and contributes to global warming.
The White House has set a goal for electricity generation to be free of greenhouse gas emissions by 2035.
How Can You Buy Renewable Energy?
If you want to support renewable energy, here’s how you can do it:
1. Check with Your Utility Company: Contact your electric utility company to see if they offer a green energy program. Many utilities have options where you can pay a little extra to ensure that your electricity comes from renewable sources.
2. Research Third-Party Suppliers: In some areas, you can choose your electricity supplier. Look for third-party suppliers that offer renewable energy plans.
3. Join a Community Solar Program: Community solar programs allow you to buy or lease a part of a solar farm. You get credit on your electric bill for the energy produced by your share of the farm.
Benefits of Buying Green Energy
By choosing to buy green energy, you help reduce the demand for fossil fuels and support the growth of renewable energy sources. This is a simple way to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment, even if you can’t install renewable energy technology at home.
