How is green energy produced?

Green energy comes in many forms and is defined as any form of energy that limits negative impact on the surrounding environment. This can include energy from sun, wind, earth, water, and more. Through technological advancements like solar PV cells, wind turbines and more, we are able to harness that energy and use it to power our day-to-day needs. As technology and energy storage continue to advance, we will be able to power our entire infrastructure with green, renewable energy sources. With time, this will have a net-zero impact on the environment, resulting in cleaner air and fewer energy shortages.

How can we harness green energy at home?

There are several ways to sustainably produce energy right in your own home. Solar PV cells have become significantly less expensive over the last decade. There are even small-scale wind turbines that can help you install that will help produce clean energy you can use to power your home. 

In some states, you can even sell the energy you produce back for credits that you can use toward your energy costs. Some federal- and state-level programs will also provide rebates that make installing green energy at home even more affordable.

Green energy is:

Clean. Green energy, which includes green electricity, is clean energy. This means it is produced with little-to-no environmental impact and does not dispense greenhouse gases into the air that contribute to global warming, the way fossil fuels do.

Varied. Green energy sources include wind, geo-thermal, hydro, and solar energy. Wind and hydro sources generate energy through the movement of air and water, while geo-thermal and solar sources generate energy through heat. All, however, provide reliable energy and protect the environment.

Renewable. As stated above, green energy sources eliminate the emission of greenhouse gases into the air. These sources are also renewable energy sources - meaning they are not created from finite materials like fossil fuels.

Stable. Green energy's varied forms mean more locations across the planet have the potential to harvest this renewable energy. This means more energy can be collected right here in the United States, making the country less dependent on energy from foreign countries.

Inexpensive. As the demand for green energy continues to grow, the price continues to drop thanks to economics of scale. Consider this: between the years 2010 and 2012 the costs associated with producing energy from wind dropped by 20 percent, and prices have fallen by more than 80 percent since 1980.

Right for you. You've seen the environmental and economic benefits that come from turning your home into a green home. The good news is, those benefits will increase as green energy continues to gain popularity in the market. If you're ready to make the switch to renewable energy sources, see what Direct Energy has to offer.