Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up?
You can sign up your home on-line or you call call an Puget Sound Energy (PSE) Energy Advisor at 1.800.562.1482.
Will my investment really make a difference?
Yes! By increasing the amount of power generated from renewable resources you:
- Reduce our dependence on fossil fuels
- Help to build or buy a wider range of renewable energy sources in our region
- Raise community awareness about the benefits of green power so that it becomes readily available and at a lower cost.
Will renewable energy resources be delivered directly to my home or business?
The electricity generated from the renewable resources that you support is put into the Northwest power-supply grid along with electricity from all of our other resources. Much like water or natural gas, it isn't possible to differentiate the sources at the point of delivery. By choosing Green Power, you are supporting the environment and helping to increase the proportion of renewable energy that is available to the entire system.
How can I reduce the cost of green power?
An easy way of reducing additional costs associated with buying green power is to reduce the amount of energy you use. For example, if you installed compact fluorescent light bulbs in all of your most frequently used light fixtures, you would reduce the amount of electricity you use and thus the amount of green power you need to buy (see PSE's Energy Efficiency section). That would lower your cost for green power. In fact, if you conserve enough energy at the same time you buy green power, your overall electric bill might not increase at all. You would benefit and so would the environment!
Where does PSE's Green Power Program money go?
PSE uses the funds collected from the Green Power Program to purchase green power, educate the public and market renewable energy, and administer the program. PSE is required to report annually on our Green Power Program's progress to the Washington State Utilities and Transportation Committee (WUTC) and Washington State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development, who in turn present their findings from throughout the state to the Washington State Legislature.
Do other utilities offer similar programs?
Yes, all across the United States. There are 16 utilities in the state of Washington, which offer voluntary Green Power to their customers. Green Power Programs vary according to each utility's unique circumstances. Puget Sound Energy's Green Power Program is consistently one of the Top 10 Programs in the country.
Am I required to participate?
No. Participation in PSE's Green Power Program is strictly voluntary.