I realise that more consumers than ever before are becoming aware of the importance of being environmentally friendly as they turn to renewable energy companies for their energy needs.

And what is known as 'renewable energy' such as wind power or solar panels, can offer a major boost to the environment.

Solar panels and fossil fuel

For a start, the UK with 1% of the world’s population, emits 2.3% of the world’s CO2. Now that can't be right can it?

Lets face it, supplies of fossil fuels will eventually run out and gas and electricity suppliers have been told to make sure that at least 4.9% of all energy they provide comes from sustainable sources. This is why we need investment in renewable energy companies.

A lot of this will come from solar energy. There are several advantages of solar power over other forms of green energy.

You can build low-cost solar panels that will help you save both energy and money. Click here for more information.

People harp on about nuclear energy being the answer to all our problems but do you trust nuclear energy?

So What Exactly Is Renewable Energy?

There are four main types of renewable or ‘green’ energy – solar, wind, hydroelectric and biomass:

Solar – converts the sun’s energy into electricity and heat via solar panels. According to Friends of the Earth, covering 1% of the Sahara desert with solar panels could generate all current global electricity demand. So why aren't we doing this?

Wind – electricity from wind energy. The UK has, in the form of wind power, the largest sustainable energy resource in Europe. And around the world, more and more governments are urging the implementation of solar power for homes.

Hydroelectric – Energy in flowing water is harnessed.

Biomass – Natural materials burnt to provide energy. This can also be explained by Small scale waste to energy - Waste turned into electricity.

Another heartening development is the English Football Association getting together with its football clubs, football players and football fans to drive home the message of renewable energy.

Everyone knows how influential footballers are to children and adults alike. If the same influence could be cast across the footballing world then we really could get the snowball rolling.

Plus, many electricity companies are now offering ‘green tariffs’. Generally these come in two types:

A Green Power Supply – The electricity supplier ensures that for every unit of electricity you use, the same amount of green electricity is generated.

A Green Fund – Where the electricity company takes the extra you pay on your bill and invests the money into renewable energy projects.

It is extremely easy to switch to a green energy tariff and there is generally no need for any work to be done to your home. You can also pay by monthly direct debit which will further cut gas and electricity prices.

Check out the best renewable energy companies here.

Renewable Energy Explained

And for more information on sustainable energy go to Wiser Planet Click on solar photovoltaic energy for information on solar for electricity.

Click on diy solar heating for information on solar water heating. Click on diy solar hot water for a brilliant guide on how to build and install your own solar water heating.

Click on our solar power gadgets for great gift ideas.

To go to our how does solar power work page.

To return to our solar energy home page.