Did you know that enough sunlight falls on Earth’s surface every hour that, if we could properly capture it, it could meet the world energy demand for an entire year? Or that hydropower has been in use for over 2,000 years? Who knew that geothermal systems can save up to 70% on heating bills and as much as 40% on cooling bills? Learn more fun and useful facts about how renewable energy really works in our Energy Basics section.

What is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy is a form of clean energy that is provided by natural sources that continuously replenish themselves. Our Energy 101: Renewable Energy pages give an overview of Class I renewable energy sources as updated in Connecticut Public Act 13-303, including: solar power, wind power, geothermal systems, anaerobic digestion, ocean thermal power, wave or tidal power, hydropower, and biomass.

Why is Renewable Energy important?

Renewable energy is important for many reasons, primarily the fact that it is continuously replenished. This means that it will never run out. Traditional sources of energy use fossil fuels, which are a finite resource. Not only will we eventually run out of all fossil fuels, but their continued use creates harmful greenhouse gases and other emissions that can effect human health, as well as the health of our planet. Connecticut has set ambitious climate change goals, and increasing use of renewable technology can help put us on the path towards achieving them.

Renewable energy investments also help to create jobs and improve the economy in the United States as renewable energy projects are developed, constructed, and maintained. Increasing our use of renewable energy will decrease our dependency on foreign oil, which will benefit both our energy security and independence. While not all sources of renewable energy make sense in all locations, and no single source is the answer to all of our energy concerns, together they help us towards a cleaner and more reliable energy future.

Is it possible to be 100% renewable?

Yes! Some cities throughout the world are going 100% renewable, including Burlington, VT. Burlington now offers 100% renewable public power to its residents with plans of 90% of all energy sources being renewable by 2050 - including electricity, heating, and transportaion. Malmo, Sweden is currently 30% renewable energy and plans to run 100% by 2030. Take a look at some other super sustainable cities!

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