Green Power

The term "green power" generally refers to electricity supplied in whole or in part from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, geothermal, hydropower, and various forms of biomass. Increasingly, electricity customers are being given electricity supply options, either as retail power markets open to competition or when their regulated utilities develop green pricing programs. More than 50 percent of retail customers in the United States now have an option of purchasing a green power product directly from their electricity supplier. In addition, consumers can support renewable energy development through the purchase of green energy certificates.

Making the choice to purchase a green power product supports increased development of renewable energy sources, which can reduce the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Greater reliance on renewable sources also provides economic benefits and can improve our national energy security.

By using this option, commercial building owners or occupants can benefit from green electricity without having to invest in and maintain the technology themselves.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Web site provides an additional discussion of the benefits of renewable energy.

For information on purchasing green power, go to The Green Power Network.