Why is renewable energy considered clean energy?

Renewable energy is an energy source that provides a limitless or endless amount of power. Essentially, these sources can replenish themselves naturally and won’t become depleted with overuse or excessive use.

Clean energy sources are simply sources of energy that provide zero carbon emissions or pollution. This is a far broader term, encompassing renewable and natural energy sources, as well as those that produce no emissions, such as hydrogen fuel cells.

After sorting out the definitions, renewable energy certainly falls under the umbrella term of clean energy, but the converse isn’t necessarily true.

Are all renewable energy sources clean?

Although there’s a common misconception that all renewable energy sources are also clean energy sources, this statement simply isn’t true. For example, nuclear power, provided it doesn’t produce a meltdown, is technically a clean energy source because it produces no emissions, but it isn’t renewable. Bio-gases would also fall under this definition, as they are often clean energy but not renewable as the amount of the source materials is limited.

What are examples of clean energy and renewable energy?

To further differentiate between clean energy and renewable energy, examples are crucial. If you still can’t wrap your head around what energy sources are clean or renewable, this should help clarify the situation.

Examples of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy can be replenished by nature. Thus, anything that naturally produces power is almost always renewable. This includes:

• Solar power
• Wind power
• Hydropower
• Geothermal energy
• Some types of biomass energy or power

Examples of Clean Energy

All of the examples above fall under the term of clean energy, but clean energy also has a number of other sources that aren’t renewable. Some of the most common examples of clean energy include:

• Natural gas, which falls under this term because it produces so little emissions
• Nuclear power

Is clean energy more efficient?

Despite lobbyists showcasing that non-renewable energy sources such as coal or oil are more efficient, this is only a partial truth. Coal has about 33% efficiency compared to 50% efficiency of biomass, 28% efficiency of hydroelectric, and 18% efficiency of wind power. Other forms are less efficient, but on the whole, there’s little difference between the efficiency of non-renewable and clean energy resources.

Are renewable energy and clean energy the sources of the future?

Both renewable energy and clean energy will become more important for power as time goes on and more non-renewable energy sources become depleted. Add in the campaigning and worldwide effort to curb global warming, and the usage of renewable and clean energy sources looks bright.

If this is still confusing, we’re here to help.  Our team of experienced renewable energy consultants will work closely with your business to provide you with all the options available.  From incentives to renewable energy options that have a great return on investment and everything in between.  Contact us to schedule a consultation today.

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What Is Clean Energy?

Before discussing the perks of clean energy for your business, it’s crucial to understand what constitutes the phrase. Very simply, clean energy is renewable, zero-emission energy provided through the solar, wind, or hydroelectric means without the need for burning minerals or fossil fuels. Nuclear energy falls under the umbrella term of clean energy, as it produces zero waste, yet the risk of meltdowns and the contamination from catastrophes such as Chernobyl and Three Mile Island have halted plans to continue nuclear power.

Reduced Costs of Clean Electricity for Businesses

However, the rising popularity of solar power for businesses — a rise of 26% in the past decade — has reduced costs dramatically. Although the installation of solar panels is still somewhat costly, the reduction in energy bills offsets this initial cost. In addition, the price of fossil fuel power will continue to rise because it’s a non-sustainable resource. As the supply of coal, natural gas, and oil fall, economic principles dictate that the price will rise.

Clean Energy and an Enhanced Reputation

Social responsibility goes deeper than once-a-year volunteer days and charitable donations. It’s a calling to improve the well-being of customers, clients, and your community. By implementing clean energy, you show your understanding of the need for clean energy and the positive aspects it brings to humankind and the world. This increases trust and improves opportunities to expand your customer base as consumers look for responsible green companies.

Setting an Example

Competition is always fierce in a capitalistic society. To set yourself apart from competitors, you need to become an industry leader. One way to do that is by becoming one of the first in the industry to adopt clean energy. By setting an example, you set a precedent of clean, renewable energy for your particular industry. Not only does this require your competitors to take time and resources to match your example, but you build a loyal following of customers that respect your green principles.

Appealing to the Younger Generation

Millennials are a unique bunch, willing to pay more for goods and services based on the social responsibility of the selling company. However, their views on clean energy and renewable resources are unlikely to change as they age. Therefore, changing your business to clean energy allows you to engage and interact with these consumers, forging a mutually beneficial business relationship that can improve your profits over time.

Clean electricity not only fuels your business, but it provides ample advantages that entice customers and increase your bottom line over time. With a bit of knowledge and discipline, you can not only become a better business, but you can also create a better tomorrow for every human, plant, and animal on this big blue sphere.

Discover all the clean energy services we provide for your business at 3 Phases Renewables.  Recently named as an honoree for 2019 Best For the World Environment.  We look forward to hearing from you, contact us with any questions you have and partner with us for a better future.

The post What Does Clean Electricity Mean for Your Business? first appeared on 3 Phases Renewables Inc.