How do you buy green electricity from a utility?
Michelle Adams
Des Moines, Iowa
There are several different ways you can purchase green electricity, but in general, options depend on where you live.
The simplest way to buy green power is directly from your current utility. Many utilities already offer green pricing options — the Department of Energy has a good list.
Other locations offer green marketing options. In this case, you choose your own utility, so you can pick one that provides power from sustainable sources.
If neither of these options are available where you live, there are other ways to support renewable energy without going through your utility. A simple option is to check into buying renewable energy credits or green tags.
For more detailed information about these different options, the Union of Concerned Scientists has a great overview.
— Megan Phelps, senior associate editor
Megan E. Phelps is a freelance writer based in Kansas. She enjoys reading and writing about all things related to sustainable living including homesteading skills, green building and renewable energy. You can find her on Google+.
