Common questions about renewable energy.

Energy from naturally occurring sources — wind, sun, tides, water and geothermal heat — that is not made from fossil or nuclear fuel and can be replenished.

It is one of the most effective ways to reduce atmospheric carbon, cut greenhouse-gas emissions and provide a long-lasting energy supply.

Every energy source has some environmental effect, since producing and installing components has an impact. Still, wind and solar produce almost no pollution in operation and far less than fossil fuels overall.

Renewables emit nearly no greenhouse gases, so they can help reverse climate change, which is driven by excess heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere.

It can, and the transition should move quickly. Wind and solar currently supply a growing share of world electricity; Germany, for example, has set a goal of 80% renewable generation by 2050, while U.S. goals often face political obstacles.

It can save money over time, help protect the planet, and enhance a brand's reputation through a visible commitment to clean energy and clean energy jobs.

A renewable energy credit (REC) is a certificate that tracks compliance with state and municipal Renewable Portfolio Standards. One REC is issued for each megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable electricity sent to the grid.

Community solar lets renters, businesses and others who cannot install their own panels share the benefits of an off-site solar array — lower bills without a rooftop.

The use of software to gather electrical data so energy consumers and suppliers can analyze, monitor and optimize energy metrics such as sources, uses, consumption and distribution.

Clean energy careers span the whole supply chain: electrician, wind turbine technician, solar installer, solar system designer, welder, industrial engineer, data analytics engineer and project manager, among others.