Switching to clean electricity is easier than ever – often just a few clicks away now that you can buy renewable energy plans online. But with different tariffs, market rules and providers, understanding the choices can be confusing. Whether you want to shrink your carbon footprint or simply support clean power, here are five things you should know about your options.
Regulated and Deregulated States
Your options for renewable energy plans will vary by state.
- If you live in a deregulated state, you can choose your electricity supplier.
- If you live in a regulated state, you must use the local utility.
Only residents in deregulated states can choose specialized green energy suppliers. In regulated states, you will typically have the option to choose a green power tariff from the designated supplier instead.
Currently, 18 states are wholly or partially deregulated – knowing your state’s status is crucial, as it determines your available options.
How Online Renewable Energy Plans Work
When you turn on your lights, you are using electricity supplied by the grid, where it is not possible to physically separate renewable electricity from standard electricity. So, having a renewable plan does not mean that the electrons you are using have necessarily come from a green source.
When you sign up for a renewable energy plan, your supplier buys Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to match your usage. Each REC represents one megawatt-hour of renewable electricity added to the U.S. grid on your behalf.
By buying a green plan, you are increasing demand for clean power. Your purchase helps to fund renewable projects and signals to the market that more are needed.
Renewable Energy Plans Have Many Benefits
When you choose a green plan, you support renewable energy generation and decrease the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels. Renewable plans may also lead to cost savings over the long term as renewable power generation costs fall. They also offer greater price stability than traditional plans, due to less cost fluctuation in the market.
Types of Renewable Energy Plans
Renewable energy plans are available as green tariffs or retail plans.
- Green tariff: Offered by standard utilities as a special rate or add-on where they buy RECs to match your usage. You simply opt in, not switching suppliers.
- Retail plan: Offered by specialist suppliers in deregulated states. They also buy RECs on your behalf, but often with a choice of which type of renewable power to support. You switch to this supplier and sign a contract with them.
How Renewable Energy Plans Are Structured
Supplier plans differ in pricing and power sources. This can be confusing, but in general, it works as follows:
| Plan Attribute | Typical Options | What It Means | Can It Be Combined? |
| Pricing structure |
Fixed rate Variable rate Index rate |
Price per kWh stays the same Price changes monthly Price follows market fluctuations |
Yes, any pricing structure can be combined with any energy source |
| Energy source |
100% Green/Renewable Standard mix |
Supplier buys RECs on your behalf No RECs |
Yes, any energy source can be combined with any pricing structure |
| Special program | Community solar | You subscribe to a share of a local solar project and get bill credits | May be combined with green or standard plans, but is often a separate subscription |
Where Can You Buy Renewable Energy Plans Online?
Your choice of renewable energy plans for your home depends on availability in your state. The following four top suppliers, available to residents in New York state, showcase some of the best ways to buy renewable energy plans online and serve as an example of what to look for in your area.
1. Northeastern Power (NEP)
Northeastern Power (NEP) is a leading retail energy supplier in New York state, specializing in flexible, sustainable electricity plans for homes and businesses. NEP empowers customers to choose renewables without the need for solar panel installation or equipment upgrades. Its online platform makes it easy to compare and enroll in eco-friendly plans, offering fixed, variable and index pricing to suit different needs and budgets.
NEP stands out for its commitment to transparency, attentive customer service and innovative technology that helps customers understand their environmental impact. By choosing NEP, consumers can directly support the transition to cleaner power while enjoying price predictability and a seamless signup process. Its local expertise, strong sustainability focus and customer-first approach make it the top choice for New Yorkers looking to buy renewable energy plans online.
2. Clearview Energy
Clearview Energy is a strong choice for New York residents seeking a straightforward, sustainable electricity supplier. Founded with a mission to make clean energy accessible, Clearview offers 100% renewable electricity plans sourced from wind and solar, helping customers reduce their carbon footprint without any home installation. The company stands out for its commitment to environmental education and its support for organizations like the Scripps Polar Center.
Clearview’s tariffs are flexible, with both variable and fixed rate options and an EV charging plan. The signup process is simple and customers also benefit from a rewards program, adding extra value to their energy choice. With a reputation for reliable service and a clear focus on sustainability, Clearview is a good option for those wanting to support renewables.
3. Verde Energy
Verde Energy is a reputable retail energy supplier offering 100% green electricity plans to New York residents. Its approach is centered on making renewables both affordable and accessible. All plans are matched by RECs to ensure your usage supports clean energy generation. The enrollment process is quick and user-friendly.
Verde’s straightforward fixed-rate pricing and clear communication help consumers understand their options and make informed choices. The company’s clear commitment to sustainability makes it a solid, trustworthy choice in New York’s competitive market.
4. Residents Energy
Residents Energy is a flexible, customer-focused retail energy provider serving New York and other deregulated states. It offers a variety of electricity tariffs, including 100% renewable options and community solar programs, allowing customers to support local environmental efforts. The company stands out for its range of fixed, variable and green plans so consumers can choose what best fits their needs and budget.
With a simple signup process and clear, jargon-free communication, Residents Energy also provides educational resources to help customers understand their choices and the benefits of supporting renewables. Residents Energy is a good option for New Yorkers seeking a supplier that combines flexibility, local impact and a commitment to sustainability.
Comparing Online Green Energy Suppliers
When choosing between renewable energy plans for your home, it’s helpful to compare suppliers side by side.
| Company | Service Area | Plan Types | Green Energy Sources |
| NEP | NY region | Fixed, variable or index | Wind, solar or hydroelectric |
| Clearview Energy | NY, NH, DC, RI, PA, OH, NJ, ME, IL, DE, MA | Fixed or variable | Wind or solar |
| Verde Energy | NY, PA, OH, NJ, MA | Fixed | Wind, solar, hydroelectric or biomass |
| Residents Energy | NY, MI, IN, OH, KY, PA, CT, NJ, MA, DE | Fixed, variable, community solar | Wind, solar, hydroelectric or community solar program |
How to Choose the Best Renewable Plan Providers
When buying renewable energy plans online and determining your best option, consider:
- Service area: Is the provider available in your state?
- Pricing structure: Do you prefer a fixed rate, variable rate or index rate?
- Energy source: Do you have a preference for which type of renewable energy you want to support? Are you interested in community solar programs?
- Customer support: Is it easy to get help and advice?
- Contract terms: Are there cancellation fees or long-term commitments?
- Sustainability credentials: Does the supplier have a demonstrable commitment to the environment?
Ready to Make the Switch to Green Energy?
As the drive to reduce emissions accelerates, renewable energy plans are an attractive way for individual households to participate in the transition. Whether you prioritize price stability, local impact or maximum sustainability, there’s a plan to fit your needs. Take time to compare providers and check out your options. Making the switch is a simple way to contribute toward a cleaner energy future.
