Both of the terms “green energy” and “renewable energy” are used to label energy sources that are sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas. While the two are often used interchangeably, there are critical differences between them that can aid in decision-making as it pertains to decarbonization and the fight against climate change. In this article, we will break down the key differences, similarities and examples of how they apply practically in the field.
Defining the terms — what’s the difference?
First things first, let’s review the formal definitions of each term in order to more thoroughly understand where they differ and how they overlap. The primary point of differentiation lies in how each type of energy is produced.
Renewable energy uses naturally replenishing resources as a power source — common forms include solar, wind, water, geothermal and biomass — it’s a system that can still negatively affect the environment. At scale, certain forms of renewable energy can result in carbon emissions, deforestation and harm to marine life.
Green energy is a subset of renewable energy. It’s a clean, sustainable power source derived from infinite, natural elements such as sunlight and wind. To be considered green, a source of energy and its system must leave behind the smallest possible environmental impact during production and distribution.
In short — green energy is always renewable, but not all renewable energy sources can be called “green.”
Renewables
Energy that is renewable — but not green — exists in nearly infinite amounts, but the production of that energy may still yield carbon emissions. Non-green renewable energy sources include things like processing biomass and running large-scale hydropower facilities. Biomass, for example, involves burning or converting natural resources such as animal and human waste, crops and wood into a usable fuel. Constructing hydropower plants generates electricity through the use of flowing water turbines.
While the output of these systems are much less harmful than traditional fossil fuels, they still release significant amounts of sequestered carbon and other greenhouse gasses into the air. Using an infinitely available energy source allows for a variety of operational efficiencies in the long-term, making the pursuit of renewable energy a valuable investment for many businesses, despite not being fully green.
Green Energy
As a subset of renewable energy, green energy provides the greatest environmental benefit yielding the lowest emissions profile and smallest carbon footprint possible. At the same time, green energy is also renewable, meaning it is self-sufficient and replaceable.
The primary sources of green energy include solar, wind and geothermal energy. Solar panels generate electricity by capturing sunlight, resulting in zero greenhouse gas emissions. As the wind blows, wind turbines rotate, creating power without the need for environmentally destructive production processes. Geothermal energy is produced by harnessing powerful steam from deep within the earth, which can be re-used by submitting it back earlier into the cycle.
The future of net zero
While green energy is superior for its minimal carbon footprint, it’s worth noting that both of these energy sources are highly beneficial to the environment. Green energy and renewable energy are important assets in the fight against climate change, and should be considered as alternatives to natural gas.
As we make the shift toward a net-zero planet, we can’t expect one unified source of alternative power to satisfy every need in every application. The net zero future will be made up of a mixture of various green and renewable energy systems. There are a variety of methods we can try and actions we can take to make a difference, from investing in infrastructure and changing our business practices to taking part in initiatives that reduce waste.
Entergy’s commitment to sustainability
Today and tomorrow, we’re dedicated to exploring and harnessing the latest advancements in the energy world to bring more value to our customers. Entergy currently uses nuclear power and clean gas across various assets and infrastructure. We are working toward integrating clean, efficient energy sources such as hydrogen and wind into our operations on a larger scale in the coming years.
We’re currently able to provide on-site solar solutions to businesses who are in the process of relocation or expansion within our territories, and we’re in the process of introducing transportation processes that reduce carbon emissions by electrifying our fleet operations.
Entergy offers white glove service for businesses who need an ally in environmental stewardship initiatives, including advising & consultation, site selection and a suite of valuable resources for businesses.
