Green Energy

Green energy is often used interchangeably with renewable energy, but the two terms are technically different. Energy is considered “green” when it is the most sustainable option with the least environmental impact. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all green energy is renewable and comes from “solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, eligible biomass, and low-impact small hydroelectric sources.”

Renewable energy refers to resources that naturally replenish themselves. However, not all renewable energy sources are considered green because some impact the environment. For example, large hydroelectric power is renewable, but it can negatively impact fish populations and their ecosystems.

As green energy and renewable resources become more attainable, consumers in deregulated states can select plans that prioritize green energy. The following table shows the amount of renewable energy produced in prominent deregulated states out of their total electricity generation, according to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Each state’s data is from 2022, except California and Texas, which have data from 2023.

• Solar energy: Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that capture sunlight and convert the electrical charge into energy.
• Wind power: This type of energy is generated when turbines create energy by connecting to a generator and building electricity when the wind spins the blades of the turbine.
• Geothermal energy: Power plants use hot water and steam from underground reservoirs to run a turbine and produce electricity.
• Eligible biomass: Organic material from plants and animals is burned and converted to fuel.
• Hydropower: Hydropower harnesses the kinetic energy of moving water by connecting to turbines or a generator.

As electricity in the United States continues to evolve, more green and renewable energy solutions are becoming available. Consumers in deregulated states can invest even further into green energy by picking electricity plans and providers with renewable sources for their home’s electricity. Take a look at our expert’s recommendations for green energy providers.

• Gexa Energy is making waves for renewable energy in Texas. This provider offers plans sourced from 100% green energy and provides discounts on electric vehicle charging periods.
• Clearview Energy serves customers across Texas and the Northeast. It provides 100% green energy plans, largely sourced from wind power.
• Green Mountain Energy provides fully green electricity plans in Texas, Illinois, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and New York. It offers both fixed-rate and variable-rate plans.

Enter your ZIP code on Choose Energy to explore options available in your area. You can search for electricity plans with renewable resources by filtering for “renewable” under the features drop-down menu.

Deregulation and green energy don’t just apply to residential customers. Both are available to business owners as well. Many businesses may want to reduce their carbon footprint by going green with their electricity plan. Call the number on your screen to chat with one of our energy experts, or fill out this form for help.

Can green energy replace fossil fuels?

The short answer is yes, but it will take time to fully shift away from fossil fuels. In 2023, fossil fuels accounted for 83% of total U.S. energy consumption, which means we are far away from no longer relying on them. The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your household’s reliance on fossil fuels by choosing a green energy plan.

What is the benefit of green energy?

Green energy sources are naturally replenishable and emit little to no harmful chemicals. Compared to fossil fuels which release a large amount of carbon dioxide and other harmful gasses into the atmosphere, green energy leaves little impact on the environment.

How can I use green energy?

You can choose green energy by selecting a provider or plan that uses renewable energy sources or purchase renewable energy credits to account for your usage. Enter your ZIP code on Choose Energy to browse our selection of trusted green energy providers.