subject: Advice When Choosing Green Energy Tariffs [print this page] The choice to go green on energy consumption is a relatively easy one considering the prevalence of providers offering many types of eco-friendly energy. Consumers can choose from three types of eco-friendly energy tariffs, namely, green source, green fund and carbon offset tariffs.
Tariff Types:
Just to touch on these tariffs briefly, let's look at the basic definitions. Green source tariffs are energy matches in that the electric company matches each unit purchased by their consumers with a unit bought from a renewable energy source. Green fund tariffs involve billing consumers with a premium amount, which is then used to finance eco-friendly programs and projects like the manufacture of solar panels. Carbon offset tariffs involve offsetting the effects of fossil fuel carbon emissions with carbon-reducing projects elsewhere, say, reforestation.
So, which of these green energy tariffs will you choose in your own home or office? All three appear to be good for both the pockets and the environment so there appears to be little impact regardless which one is chosen. In most ways, you are right because the most important thing is taking the first step toward the right direction of living an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Steps in Choosing:
Still, you will be required to choose for obvious reasons. No worries as there is no wrong or right answer to choosing the best eco-friendly energy tariffs because each one has its own pros and cons. You should choose based on your own needs and wants and then live with your choice.
Keeping these tips in mind, however, when you are in the process of choosing from among the three green energy tariffs:
Look for the Green Energy Certification Scheme (GECS). This is the independent third-party independent stamp of approval given to green energy plans. The criteria for the certification are stringent including but not limited to the energy company being an active member in good standing of the scheme. The energy company must also be able to generate sufficient amounts of electricity from renewable sources like the sun and wind so that all consumers signed up for its green program can avail.
Compare the tariffs. Admittedly, green energy can be expensive but when you come to think of the benefits to the environment, the small premium paid is well worth it. You will still want to compare green energy prices because a few are more expensive than others. Keep in mind that factors like location, demand and supply come into the picture when green energy companies compute for their tariffs. Of course, you will not only be thinking about the tariffs per se. Your important concerns will also include the quality of services rendered by the green energy company. There's no sense in availing of lower tariffs when the service is an on again-off again affair.
Compute your approximate energy usage. You may decide to split your energy usage between conventional and green energy sources, which is valid. Your job is to decide how much of each energy source you will consume for the month, say, a 50-50 split.
Even the lowest green energy tariffs will be useless if and when you continue with your reckless consumption of energy. You must try to cut down on your energy usage - turn off lights that are not in use, buy Energy Star appliances, and adopt other eco-friendly habits
