Renewable energy in Texas
Texas may not be the state that comes to mind when you think of green energy, but it actually leads the country in wind energy production — and by a large margin. It also consistently ranks in the top five for solar energy generation. This abundance of renewable energy makes it possible for Texans across the state to reduce their carbon footprints.
Reducing your environmental impact doesn’t have to involve installing your own solar panels or wind turbine — though those are certainly options in Texas. It can be as easy as choosing a renewable energy plan on the Choose Texas Power marketplace.
Green energy rates aren’t necessarily more expensive than standard energy rates, either. In fact, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to save with Texas renewable energy. Read on to learn more about your options for renewable energy in the Lone Star State.
What is the difference between green energy and renewable energy?
Although the terms “green energy” and “renewable energy” are often used interchangeably, they actually describe different things. Renewable energy is the broader category, describing any form of energy production that relies on a fuel source that can be reused without running out. Below are some examples of renewable energy generation:
- Wind: Texas is the ruler of wind power, generating more than a quarter of the nation’s electricity that comes from this source. The wind turns giant turbines that then turn rotors connected to a generator.
- Solar: Photovoltaic panels function as semiconductors, with positive and negative sides. Conductors attached to each create a circuit, converting electrons from sunlight into electricity.
- Geothermal: Hot water and steam from underground reservoirs drive turbines connected to generators.
- Hydro: Dams channel water through turbines that drive generators.
- Biomass: Plant and animal matter is burned or turned into a liquid or gas that is burned to produce heat that drives turbines.
“Green energy” describes forms of renewable energy that have the most environmental impact. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, some forms of biomass, and certain small hydroelectric sources fall under this category in the U.S. These power sources go beyond regulations to substantially reduce greenhouse gases without any environmental trade-offs.
That said, when it comes to purchasing energy in Texas, renewable energy and green energy are often used to describe the same thing. In the Lone Star State, renewable energy comes from wind and solar power, offered by reliable green electricity providers.
How to purchase a renewable energy plan
Thanks to abundant Texas green energy generation, it’s incredibly easy to buy renewable energy plans in the state. Every Texas electricity plan contains a percentage of renewable energy. You can find the amount in the Electricity Facts Label included with the plan’s documentation.
Many green electricity providers include multiple options with some percentage of green energy. You can often increase that amount and even purchase 100% renewable energy.
Additionally, a couple of Choose Texas Power providers exclusively sell 100% green energy plans, including Gexa Energy and Green Mountain Energy.
To explore green energy rates and compare renewable energy plans in your area, enter your ZIP code on this page. From there, you can filter for green energy, then browse rates, terms, no-deposit options, and more to settle on a plan that’s right for you. Because of deregulation in Texas, you’re free to choose your provider and switch plans anytime.
FAQs about green energy
If I buy a renewable plan, will green energy be delivered to my home?
No. Your provider will purchase carbon offsets or renewable energy credits to match your usage. Money from the offsets or credits is used to fund more renewable energy projects.
Is green energy more expensive than traditional energy?
It truly depends on how you count costs. Tax credits and other factors have brought costs down for renewables, and they now approach or, in some cases, fall below pricing for electricity generated by fossil fuels. As green and renewable energy infrastructure continues to expand and technology improves, renewable energy rates will likely continue to fall.
Is nuclear power green?
The answer is up for debate. Nuclear plants don’t generate carbon dioxide, but they do have a negative environmental impact in terms of mining, extraction, and radioactive waste. The EPA doesn’t classify nuclear power as a green energy source.
What if my power goes out? Who do I call?
Anytime you have a power outage in Texas, you should call your utility, not your electricity provider. The utility is responsible for delivering electricity to your home. It also maintains and repairs power lines and other equipment used to transmit electricity.
Shop for a renewable plan
Ready to sign up for green energy in Texas? Enter your ZIP code on this page to find out what’s available. If you have further questions about green energy, you can call us at the number on this page and speak with an energy expert.
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