Going Green: Solar & Other Renewable Energy Options

“Going green” and “renewable energy” are terms that many of us hear every day. But what do they really mean?

What Is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy is created from natural resources and is not depleted when it is used, like the sun or wind.

This type of energy plays an important role in reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions that damage our environment.

Some types of renewable energy sources are also considered to be “green” energy. That means this type of energy doesn’t produce pollution.

Green energy sources are naturally replenished and often avoid mining or drilling operations.

Types Of Renewable Energy

Solar Power

One of the most well-known forms of renewable energy is solar power.

Advanced Solar is committed to bringing this renewable, non-polluting power to Northern Indiana. This type of clean energy comes directly from the sun.

Solar panels are the most common way to harness this energy, as they collect the light from the sun, convert it to electricity using an inverter. At that point, it can be used to power homes, businesses, and more.

Wind Energy

Technically, wind energy is also generated by our sun because wind is caused by our atmosphere heating unevenly.

Here in the midwest, most of us are familiar with the sight of large wind turbines or “wind farms”.

Wind turns the large blades of the turbines that spin a generator and use that to create electricity.

Hydroelectric Power

This type of energy is generated by the flow of water in rivers, dams, and other large, moving bodies of water.

Electricity is created by storing water in a dam or reservoir and releasing it through a turbine to activate a generator.

Making The Switch To Green Energy

Moving toward renewable, green energy is vital for our environment, as it replaces the negative impact of fossil fuels with an alternative source of power.

While the up-front cost of switching to a renewable energy source like solar power can seem high, you save significantly over time.

For example, installing a solar energy system in your home is the best way to dramatically lower your utility bill.

With the cost of electricity steadily increasing, finding a way to take control of your utility costs is the best solution.

Learn how to lower your electric bill with solar energy solutions

Advanced Solar Is Here To Help

Have questions about the best way to make the switch to solar energy in your home or business? We’re here to answer your questions and help you find the best solution to move to renewable energy.

Originally published in 2021, this article has been updated to include the most relevant updated information.