Local Knowledge About Renewable Energy

Renewable energy in the United States accounted for about 17 percent of the domestically produced electricity in 2018. However, the country currently relies heavily on coal, oil and natural gas for its energy supplies. These carbon-dense fossil fuels are nonrenewable. That is, they draw on finite resources that will continue to dwindle. In our homes and businesses, the use of non-renewable (conventional) energy requires a small initial investment, then ongoing operating costs in the form of monthly utility bills. In contrast, renewable energy resources – such as solar, wind and hydroelectric energy – are constantly replenished and will not run out. Renewable energy generally requires a larger initial investment, followed by smaller (or NO) monthly utility bills. Another reason to consider renewable energy is the tax incentives available in most states.