As market volatility and global unrest continue to create massive fluctuation in fossil fuel markets, renewable energy is proving to be the future of energy production. Here are five reasons that signify the shift to renewables.

What are SRECs?

If you’ve spent time looking into solar for your home or business, you’ve likely heard the term SRECs, which stands for Solar Renewable Energy Certificates or Solar Renewable Energy Credits. SRECs are solar incentives offered to homeowners and businesses who have a qualifying solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Utility companies then pay system owners for these certificates as a way for the utility to meet their state-issued Renewable Portfolio Standard.

As more states begin to implement Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards (RPS) and establish carve-outs for wind and solar production, the question arises; which source of renewable energy production is best? Although both offer significant benefits, there are some key factors to consider before crowning one king.

As consumer and market demands for clean energy sources and greater energy independence grows, many states are putting Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) into place, which will reshape the energy landscape for years to come. So what is an RPS, and why should you care?

With solar energy only accounting for roughly two percent of the world’s electricity, it would be fair to assume that big utility companies have nothing to worry about. But you might be surprised to find out that isn’t the case.

Making the switch to solar has always been a great opportunity for those looking for a reliable source of renewable energy and ways to save on their energy bill.

While using the energy you create from your solar photovoltaic (PV) system can help decrease the amount of energy you pull from the grid, net metering can also help increase your savings by receiving a credit for the excess energy you produce from your utility company.

Now that your solar panels are producing clean, renewable energy, there are a few items on your monthly utility bill that you may want to pay attention to depending on what state and local programs apply to your solar installation.

As a consumer, making informed decisions on how to minimize your energy costs is important to you, and understanding how you’re charged by your utility is a crucial step in getting the most out of your dollar.

Once a month, your utility company sends an invoice requesting a specified amount for the energy and services you’ve used. Many gloss over the information provided in the bill, but even if you were to comb through it diligently, would you be able to fully understand what’s there? There are plenty of benefits to taking a closer look at how you’re being charged for the energy you use, and some of those benefits might lead to savings.