Purchasing green power means that the energy you use comes from sustainable, non-polluting sources, but it also means that you are encouraging the proliferation of green energy by demonstrating a demand for it.  Incredibly, using green power is probably much easier than might you think—you do not have to install solar panels or contract a specialist.

Start by perusing your power company’s website, or calling their offices.  They might already offer the option of green power to their customers, as was the case when I checked with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.  Under the LADWP’s plan, green energy costs an extra three cents per kilowatt hour, and you can choose what percent of your power you want to come from renewable sources.  I made the switch to 100% green power online in less than five minutes.

If you are having trouble finding a local green power provider, the EPA’s website offers a search function for exactly this purpose.  Just click on your state and the site provides information about power companies, their location, the types of renewable energy they offer, and the price per kilowatt.