Causecast

by SARAH NELSON, Contributing Writer

New York City has launched a new website that allows residential and business consumers to switch to cleaner, renewable energy and they’ve made the switch as easy as 1,2,3.

Green Power NYC is a collaborative effort between the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Alliance for Clean Energy New York to simplify green energy for consumers. The program will help New Yorkers reduce carbon emissions by allowing consumers to choose how green they want to go. In three clicks, they select their energy provider and what type of clean power they want to use. There’s a couple decisions to make and a short form to fill out, then they are on their way to a greener New York City. Besides the obvious environmental perks, the program is also expected to increase economic development in the clean energy sector, and help avoid the construction of new fossil fuel power plants.

The renewable energy option isn’t free, but it’s easy and New Yorkers will find that it’s actually a really affordable option. Depending in their choice, the renewable selection costs between one and two and a half cents per kilowatt hour. That’s good news for the city that never sleeps. In return consumers earn renewable energy credits that are tied to the renewable energy providers.

The race to switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy is quickly growing more hopeful with the launch of programs like Green Power NYC. As the renewable market grows, the ability for other cities to institute green energy options becomes more feasible. According to 2007 rankings, California had the trophy for having the most energy efficient cities. Oakland ranks number one, while San Francisco, Sacramento and San Jose tie for second. Currently, New York doesn’t make the list (which was last compiled in 2007), but they’re certainly on track to hold a place in future rankings.

For information on renewable energy solutions in your area, contact your utilities provider and find out what your options are. If you live in New York City, visit Green Power NYC and make the switch. You’re just three clicks away from cleaner energy.

To find out what you can do to cut back your energy consumption, check out tips from We Can Solve It.

Photo by Paraflyer, flickr.