You can use renewable energy to power your home, either by purchasing "green power"—electricity generated using renewable energy, or by installing a small renewable energy system. Using a small renewable energy system can help you lower your electricity costs, achieve energy independence, and reduce pollution. Learn your options for buying clean electricity, as well as how to plan for your own small wind, solar, or microhydropower systems.
Planning for a home renewable energy system is a process that includes analyzing your existing electricity use, looking at local codes and requirements, deciding if you want to operate your system on or off of the electric grid, and understanding technology options you have for your site.
You have the option to purchase renewable electricity, either directly from your power supplier, from an independent clean power generator, or through renewable energy certificates.
When connecting a home energy system to the electric grid, you should research and consider what the typically required equipment will be as well as your power provider’s requirements and agreements.
Powering your home or small business using a small renewable energy system that is not connected to the electricity grid -- called a stand-alone system -- can make economic and environmental sense.