Getting power from renewable energy doesn’t have to mean putting up rooftop solar panels or starting your own wind farm. Some utility companies offer a green power option right on their bill. In Palo Alto, the city owned utility launched the Palo Alto Green program in 2008. Homeowners and business customers can purchase renewable energy to meet their electricity needs at a price premium of 1.5¢/kWh above standard electric rates.

According to city estimates, the average ratepayer signed up for the Palo Alto Green program pays less than 10 dollar a month extra for their electricity. In January, the city announced that 20 percent of residents were choosing green power.

Wind and solar generators in Davis, Pleasanton, San Ramon and Solano County supply the renewable energy.

To find out if your utility offers a green power option, visit:

EPA - Green Power Locator Map