What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy is made from resources that nature will replace, like wind, water and sunshine.

Renewable energy is also called "clean energy" or "green power" because it doesn't pollute the air or the water.

Why don't we use renewable energy all the time?

Unlike natural gas and coal, we can't store up wind and sunshine to use when we need to make more electricity. If the wind doesn't blow or the sun hides behind clouds, there sometimes isn’t enough power for everyone. Another reason we use fossil fuels, like coal and natural gas, is because they're cheaper. It costs more money to make electricity from wind or sun.

Where does renewable energy come from?

Renewable energy sources are all around us. It is in the wind that blows, the shining sun, the flowing water and even the growing grass. We interact with sources of renewable energy every day. Let’s dig a little deeper and see what that’s all about.