Energy options are prevalent these days. In the past, many homes were powered by electricity from the local utility. However, today we have access to various electricity plans from different companies as well as environmentally friendly energy options, such as renewable energy. If you’ve heard about renewable energy, you may be interested in how this type of power source is beneficial. Here are some FAQs about renewable energy and information on how renewable energy affects us all.

What Is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy, as explained by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, is the power received from naturally replenishing sources but that has limited flow. This type of renewable resource is basically inexhaustible with regard to duration but a limited energy amount when it comes to the unit of time availability.

Types of Renewable Energy

There are quite a few different types of renewable energy. The main types of renewable energy include:

  • Biomass
  • Wind
  • Solar
  • Hydropower
  • Geothermal

Solar energy and wind energy are popular types of renewable energy for powering homes.

Why Renewable Energy Is Important

Renewable energy is important for a few different reasons, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA lists the benefits of renewable energy as follows:

  • Renewable energy generates energy that doesn’t produce greenhouse gas emissions that come from fossil fuels. This type of environmentally friendly energy also reduces certain types of air pollution.
  • Renewable types of energy diversify the energy supply and also help to reduce dependence on imported fuels.
  • The introduction of types of renewable energy creates jobs and furthers economic development in installation, manufacturing, and other industries.

For all these reasons, renewable energy is an important part of the power industry.

Renewable Energy Plans

When it comes to the part renewable energy plays in electricity offerings, residents can power their households with renewable energy provided by electricity companies. Various electric companies offer renewable energy plans so their customers can power their homes and help the environment at the same time.

Is Renewable Energy Right for You?

You might think that renewable energy is right for everyone, however, there are different factors to consider in order to make the right choice. Here are some questions to ask to help you choose the right type of energy plan:

  • How much is the kWh rate?
  • What is the plan term length like for each option?
  • Are there any fees involved?
  • Do you have to sign up for a long-term contract?
  • Where does the energy come from?
  • Can you prepay for your electricity?
  • Do you need a background check?
  • Do you need a security deposit?
  • Are there a lot of forms to fill out?

By answering all these questions, you can narrow down your energy choices to decide if a renewable energy plan or natural gas option is better for you. If you want a renewable energy plan regardless, you may already have your mind set on this type of environmentally conscious electric plan.

Shop for an Energy Plan

Prepaid electricity plans are a good option to consider when looking for a power source for your home’s energy. If you’re looking for a new prepaid electricity plan in Texas, and not just renewable energy plans, Now Power may be a good option for you. Now Power in Texas offers prepaid plan options. One prepaid electricity plan is the Smart Balance 30. The smart plan 30 option requires a minimum $30 balance at all times. If you have this plan and keep your balance at $30 minimum, you can save 3 cents per kWh in cost. When you sign up for this variable rate prepaid electricity plan, you don’t have to pay a security deposit, plus you won’t have to deal with any long-term contracts or early termination fees.

Another Now Power plan is the Free Nights Plan. The free night electricity plan is a prepaid electric plan option that provides you with free electricity on nights and weekends. As with the Smart Balance 30 plan, this free night electricity plan also requires no background check, security deposit, or long-term contract. You just have to keep a minimum balance in your account to keep the electricity flowing.

Whatever type of energy plan you choose, make sure to review your plan options carefully before choosing a specific one. Look at the price estimates of what you’ll pay for electricity and consider any fees or charges you may incur. Also, review information on what you’ll have to do to sign up for each plan option.