CLEAN ENERGY

renewable energy basics

No single solution can meet our society's future energy needs. The answer lies instead in a family of diverse energy technologies that share a common thread: they do not deplete our natural resources or destroy our environment.

Renewable energy technologies tap into natural cycles and systems, turning the ever-present energy around us into usable forms. The movement of wind and water, the heat and light of the sun, heat in the ground, the carbohydrates in plants—all are natural energy sources that can supply our needs in a sustainable way. Because they are homegrown, renewables can also increase our energy security and create local jobs.

clean energy policies

We can increase our reliance on renewable energy by enacting supportive federal and state policies, reducing barriers to the adoption of renewable technologies, and by encouraging individual, business, and government purchasers of energy to use renewables.

UCS is working for sustainable energy policies at both the federal and state levels. Much of our current work in this area has focused on renewable electricity standards and other policy incentives to speed the development of renewable technologies and decrease our dependence on fossil fuels.

UCS pays close attention to scientific research and government policies relevant to clean energy issues. We make comments, write reports and briefings, and send letters to help shape policies that will move us toward a cleaner energy future.

energy efficiency

An important strategy for reducing our dependence on fossil fuels is improving energy efficiency (that is, getting more use out of the electricity we already generate). Energy efficiency measures such as advanced industrial processes and high-efficiency motors, lighting, and appliances have the potential to provide significant reductions in electricity use while saving consumers money in the long run.

Policies that support improved efficiency include federal appliance and equipment efficiency standards, enhanced building codes, tax incentives, and industrial energy efficiency measures.

fossil fuels

Fossil fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas—are America's primary source of energy, accounting for more than 70 percent of current U.S. electricity generation. However, the extraction and burning of these fuels contributes to global warming, causes cancer and other chronic health problems, and degrades valuable land and water resources.

In fact, fossil fuel-fired electricity generation is the single greatest source of air pollution in the United States, and power plants are the leading U.S. source of carbon dioxide emissions—a primary contributor to global warming. Fossil fuels also produce nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, hydrocarbons, dust, soot, smoke, and other suspended matter.

To decrease our dependence on fossil fuels while improving human health and environmental sustainability, UCS engages in analysis and advocacy that encourages the implementation of energy efficiency measures and increased use of renewable energy technologies.

The energy world is buzzing with a level of excitement not seen in decades. Prices for gasoline and natural gas have shocked consumers. The costs of our dependence on oil are hitting home. In the 2006 elections, energy security, affordability, and the environmental effects of energy policy were higher in voter’s minds' than ever before.

The issues are pressing. Fortunately, there are many possible solutions. Renewable energy has found new champions in Silicon Valley and on Wall Street. Farmers see themselves as growing fuel as well as food and fiber. The debate about climate change is over and now we can focus on the solutions. All these tributaries have swelled interest in generating clean, home-grown energy. But after all the slogans and visions, what, in practical terms, shall we do to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and fossil fuels and realize the promise of renewable energy?