Green Power
June 24, 2008
What is Green Power? In general terms, it is an energy source, usually electricity, which is created using renewable energy.The renewable energy could be wind, solar, hydro, biomass, etc.Here in North Carolina, the primary new renewable sources which are beginning to be built consist of solar and biomass.In order to support renewable energy, customers are being given electrical source supply options.They can either purchase renewable power through their utility, or through the purchase of green energy certificates.
By supporting renewable energy, or green power, customers can help reduce their “carbon footprint” by both helping to develop renewable energy as well as sending a positive message to utilities that you are willing to pay a premium price to improve our environment.Our country’s energy dependence on oil and coal will be reduced by every watt of power produced by renewable energy.
Green power may be purchased in a variety of ways.In North Carolina, the most straightforward way is thru the nonprofit NC Greenpower.You pay additional money on your power bill every month, and that money goes to NC Greenpower, which is in turn paid out to renewable energy providers in the state.Look at their website, http://www.ncgreenpower.org/about/ for more information.Also, for information on Green Power on a national level, see the US Dept. of Energy’s Website for additional information (www.eere.energy.gov/greenpower).The website has several downloads which may be helpful (Guide to Purchasing Green Power).
