Systems, including smart meters, that provide real-time data on electricity use, helping utilities manage demand and allowing customers to monitor usage.
Advanced nuclear fusion
Fusion energy, an experimental technology, aims to replicate the sun’s energy production process. If successful, it could provide a vast, clean, and virtually limitless energy source.
Agrivoltaics
The practice of installing solar panels on agricultural land in a way that allows for both crop production and solar electricity generation, improving land use efficiency.
Air quality improvement
Renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro produce electricity without emitting pollutants that degrade air quality, such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), which are commonly produced by burning fossil fuels.
Alternative energy
Non-traditional energy sources that serve as alternatives to fossil fuels, including renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal.
Ancillary services
Grid services necessary to maintain stability, including frequency regulation, voltage control, and spinning reserves. Renewables and storage increasingly contribute to ancillary services.
Base load
The minimum level of demand on an electrical grid over a span of time. Base load is typically met by reliable energy sources that can run continuously.
Battery energy storage system (BESS)
Acronym: BESS. Also known as “battery storage” or simply “energy storage.” This term refers to systems that store electricity for later use.
Battery storage
Systems that store electricity generated from renewable sources for later use. Battery storage is crucial for balancing supply and demand, especially for intermittent renewables like solar and wind.
Battery storage system
Technology that stores electricity for later use, helping balance supply and demand, especially when paired with intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind.
Bi-directional EV charging
Technology enabling electric vehicles to both receive and supply electricity, effectively turning cars into mobile battery storage units.
Bifacial solar panels
Solar panels that can absorb light on both sides, increasing efficiency by capturing sunlight reflected off surfaces like rooftops or the ground.
Biomass power
Electricity generated by burning organic materials, such as wood, crop waste, or other biological materials, to produce steam that drives a turbine.
Blockchain for energy
A digital ledger technology that could enhance transparency and efficiency in energy transactions, particularly in peer-to-peer energy trading.
Blockchain for renewable energy
Using blockchain technology to enable transparent, secure energy transactions, particularly useful for peer-to-peer energy trading and tracking renewable energy certificates (RECs).
Building envelope
The physical structure that separates the interior of a building from the outside, including walls, insulation, and windows. Efficient envelopes reduce heating and cooling needs.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)
Solar panels incorporated directly into building materials, such as rooftops or facades, providing both energy generation and aesthetic benefits.
Capacity factor
The ratio of actual energy produced by a renewable energy system to the maximum possible output over a specific period. A higher capacity factor indicates a more efficient system.
Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS)
Technology to capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes or power generation, storing or reusing it. CCUS can complement renewable energy by reducing emissions from fossil fuel plants.
Carbon footprint
The total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, event, organization, or product, typically expressed in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂e).
Carbon intensity
The amount of carbon dioxide emissions produced per unit of electricity generated, usually measured in grams of CO₂ per kilowatt-hour (gCO₂/kWh).
Carbon neutrality
A state where net carbon emissions are zero, achieved by balancing emissions with carbon removal or offsets. Carbon neutrality is often a goal for renewable energy projects.
Carbon offset
A reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases made in order to compensate for emissions produced elsewhere.
Carbon sink
Natural systems, like forests and oceans, that absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than they release, helping offset emissions.
Carbon trading
A market-based approach where companies buy and sell allowances for carbon emissions, incentivizing emissions reductions and renewable energy investments.
Circular economy
An economic model focused on resource efficiency and waste reduction, often aligning with renewable energy’s goals of sustainability and minimal resource extraction.
Clean Air Act (1970)
U.S. legislation aimed at controlling air pollution, which indirectly fostered the growth of renewable energy by encouraging cleaner energy sources. Similar policies have been enacted worldwide to reduce environmental pollution.
Clean Power Plan (CPP)
A former U.S. policy aimed at reducing carbon pollution from power plants. While the CPP is no longer in effect, its goals are often mirrored in local policies.
Climate change mitigation
Using renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), helping to limit the rise in global temperatures and reduce the impacts of climate change.
Combined heat and power (CHP)
A system that simultaneously generates electricity and captures usable heat, significantly increasing energy efficiency.
Community solar programs
Solar power projects where members of a community can buy or lease a share, receiving credits on their electricity bills. These programs make renewable energy accessible to those without rooftop solar.
Concentrated solar power (CSP)
A solar power technology that uses mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, generating thermal energy that can be used to produce electricity.
Decarbonization
The process of reducing carbon dioxide emissions in an economy or sector. Decarbonization in the energy sector focuses on transitioning from fossil fuels to renewables.
Decentralized energy
A system where electricity is generated close to the point of use, often using small-scale renewables like rooftop solar or local wind turbines, reducing the need for long-distance transmission.
Demand response (DR)
Programs that encourage consumers to adjust their electricity usage during peak periods to help maintain grid stability and reduce costs.
Distributed energy resources (DERs)
Small, modular power generation or storage technologies located close to the point of use. Examples include solar panels, battery storage, and small wind turbines.
Distributed generation
Small-scale power generation systems located close to where electricity is used, such as rooftop solar panels. Distributed generation can reduce the load on the main grid and increase local resilience.
Distribution system
The local network of power lines and transformers that deliver electricity from substations to homes and businesses.
Early geothermal development
Geothermal energy production began in Italy in the early 20th century. Advances in geothermal technology have since enabled more efficient and widespread use, particularly in countries like the United States, Iceland, and New Zealand.
Early wind turbines
The first wind turbines developed for electricity generation appeared in the late 19th century, using basic mechanical designs. Modern turbines, refined through decades of advancements, are now highly efficient and capable of producing large amounts of power.
Eco-friendly tourism
Resorts, hotels, and tourism operators increasingly use renewable energy and eco-friendly practices, offering travelers more sustainable options for lodging and activities.
Electric vehicle (EV) charging station
Infrastructure that provides electricity to charge electric vehicles. Renewable-powered EV charging stations support a clean transportation network.
Electric vehicles (EVs)
Cars powered by electricity instead of gasoline, reducing emissions and fuel costs. EVs can be charged at home or public charging stations, and some systems allow EVs to provide power back to the grid (V2G).
Electric water heating
Water heaters powered by electricity, ideally sourced from renewable energy, provide an alternative to fossil-fuel heating and help reduce household carbon footprints.
Emergency power from renewables
Battery storage and solar-powered systems can provide backup electricity during natural disasters or outages, enhancing community resilience and response efforts.
Emission factor
A metric used to estimate the amount of emissions produced per unit of energy generated. Lower emission factors indicate cleaner energy sources.
Energy access in remote areas
Off-grid renewable energy systems, such as mini-grids and solar home systems, offer electricity access in remote and underserved areas, improving quality of life and supporting economic development.
Energy as a service (EaaS)
A business model where energy providers offer energy solutions as a managed service, often including renewable energy installation, maintenance, and monitoring for customers.
Energy crisis of the 1970s
A period marked by oil shortages and high prices that spurred interest in alternative energy sources, including solar and wind. This crisis was a pivotal moment for renewable energy research and development.
Energy independence
Renewable energy allows countries to produce their own electricity, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. This independence improves national security and resilience against fuel price volatility.
Energy intensity
The amount of energy used per unit of output or activity, such as kilowatt-hours per square foot in a building.
Energy mix
The combination of different energy sources (renewable and non-renewable) used to generate electricity within a region or country. An ideal energy mix balances reliability, sustainability, and cost.
Energy payback time (EPT)
The amount of time required for a renewable energy system to generate the same amount of energy used to manufacture and install it. Shorter EPTs indicate more sustainable technologies.
Energy resilience
The ability of an energy system to continue operating during or quickly recover from disruptions, often supported by renewable energy and distributed generation.
Energy storage
Technologies like batteries, pumped hydro, and thermal storage that store energy for later use, balancing supply and demand and supporting renewable integration.
Energy-efficient appliances
Devices like Energy Star-rated refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners reduce energy use and are often powered by clean energy sources, lowering both energy bills and emissions.
Energy-efficient HVAC systems
Modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are designed to reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality, often using renewable energy to power operations.
Environmental impact statement (EIS)
A report that evaluates the environmental effects of a proposed project, including impacts on air, water, and wildlife.
Environmental justice
Renewable energy projects can be developed in ways that benefit underserved communities by providing clean, affordable energy and creating local jobs. These projects can help address historic inequalities in energy access and pollution exposure.
EV charging stations
Found in shopping centers, workplaces, and residential areas, these stations allow EV owners to recharge their vehicles, ideally with renewable-powered electricity.
Feed-in tariff (FiT)
A policy mechanism that guarantees fixed payments to renewable energy producers for the electricity they add to the grid. FiTs help encourage investment in renewables by ensuring a stable return.
First-generation solar cells
The earliest solar cells developed in the 1950s, primarily using silicon. These cells laid the foundation for modern photovoltaics, although they were initially too costly for widespread use.
Floating solar
Solar panels installed on bodies of water, such as reservoirs or lakes. Floating solar systems reduce land use and can improve efficiency by cooling panels with water.
Floating wind turbines
Offshore wind turbines installed on floating platforms, allowing them to be located in deeper waters with stronger, more consistent wind, expanding the potential for offshore wind power.
Flywheel energy storage
A mechanical method of storing energy by spinning a flywheel at high speeds. Flywheels are efficient for short-term energy storage, helping stabilize grid frequency.
Geothermal energy
Heat derived from the earth's internal layers, which can be used to generate electricity through steam or hot water reservoirs.
Green bond
A bond specifically issued to fund projects that have positive environmental or climate benefits, including renewable energy developments.
Green building
A building designed to reduce environmental impact, often incorporating renewable energy, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials.
Green building design
Offices, schools, and commercial buildings designed for energy efficiency use renewable energy sources, efficient lighting, and sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact.
Green hydrogen
Hydrogen produced by electrolysis using electricity generated from renewable sources. Green hydrogen is a clean fuel with applications in transportation and industry.
Green power purchasing
Buying electricity generated from renewable sources, often through utilities or specific green energy programs. Green power purchasing supports the market for renewable energy.
Greenhouse gas reduction
Actions taken to lower greenhouse gas emissions, often involving shifts to renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices.
Greenhouse gases (GHGs)
Acronym: GHGs. This term encompasses gases like CO₂, methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), which contribute to global warming.
Grid flexibility
The grid’s ability to respond to variations in supply and demand, essential for integrating intermittent renewables like wind and solar.
Grid parity
The point at which electricity from renewable sources is as cost-effective as electricity from traditional sources.
Health benefits
Reduced air pollution from renewable energy sources leads to lower incidences of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and other health conditions caused by poor air quality.
Home battery storage
Systems like the Tesla Powerwall store excess solar energy generated during the day, providing backup power at night or during grid outages.
Hydroelectric power
Electricity generated by the movement of water, typically using dams or flowing river systems to turn turbines.
Hydrogen economy
A potential economic system in which hydrogen is used as a primary energy carrier, particularly valuable for sectors that are hard to electrify.
Interconnection
The process of connecting a power generation system (such as a solar or wind installation) to the electrical grid.
Intermittency
The natural variability of renewable sources like solar and wind. Energy storage and grid flexibility help address intermittency.
Inverter
A device that converts direct current (DC) generated by solar panels or batteries into alternating current (AC) used in homes and businesses.
Job creation
The renewable energy sector is a major source of employment, with jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research. Renewable energy job growth often exceeds that of fossil fuels.
Kyoto Protocol (1997)
An international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions globally. The Kyoto Protocol set the stage for future agreements, like the Paris Agreement, and encouraged investment in clean energy.
Levelized cost of energy (LCOE)
A metric used to compare the costs of different electricity generation methods, expressed as the average cost per kilowatt-hour over the life of the asset.
Life cycle assessment (LCA)
A method for assessing the environmental impacts of a product or system throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal.
Life cycle emissions
The total greenhouse gas emissions associated with a renewable energy system over its lifetime, including production, operation, and decommissioning phases.
Load management
Techniques used to shift or reduce electricity use during peak periods. Includes strategies like demand response and battery storage.
Load shedding
The intentional reduction of electricity usage in response to demand peaks or grid instability. Often implemented to avoid blackouts.
Low carbon fuel standard (LCFS)
A policy aimed at reducing the carbon intensity of fuels, often applied in transportation. Peninsula Clean Energy supports such policies by promoting electric vehicles.
Low-temperature geothermal systems
A new geothermal technology designed to operate at lower temperatures, making it feasible in areas without high-temperature geothermal resources.
Microgrid
A localized grid that can operate independently from the main grid, often incorporating renewable energy sources and battery storage for resilience.
Microgrids in rural areas
Microgrids powered by renewables and battery storage offer reliable power to remote or rural communities, reducing dependence on costly and polluting diesel generators.
Microhydropower
Small-scale hydroelectric systems that generate power from flowing water, typically for rural or remote areas without access to the main grid.
Net metering
A billing mechanism that allows solar power system owners to receive credits for excess electricity they send back to the grid.
Net zero
A state where an entity’s carbon emissions are balanced by an equivalent amount of carbon removal or offset, often achieved by transitioning to renewable energy.
On-site solar power
Many companies install solar panels on their premises to offset energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. Excess energy is often fed back to the grid.
Paris Agreement (2015)
A landmark international accord aimed at limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement has been a significant driver of renewable energy policy and investment worldwide.
Peak demand
The highest amount of electricity demand observed in a specific period, often influenced by weather and time of day.
Perovskite solar cells
A new type of solar cell made from perovskite materials, known for high efficiency and low production costs. Perovskite cells are being researched as an alternative to traditional silicon solar cells.
Photovoltaic (PV)
Acronym: PV. Also known as “solar cells” or “solar panels.” This technology converts sunlight into electricity.
Portable solar chargers
Lightweight, foldable solar chargers allow people to power devices while camping, hiking, or traveling, providing a clean energy alternative to portable generators.
Power purchase agreement (PPA)
Acronym: PPA. Also known as “renewable energy contract” or “clean energy agreement.” PPAs outline contracts where buyers purchase renewable power at fixed rates.
Preservation of ecosystems
Renewable energy projects can reduce the environmental impacts associated with mining and drilling for fossil fuels, helping to protect natural habitats and biodiversity.
Public transit electrification
Public transit systems powered by clean electricity instead of fossil fuels. Cities worldwide are transitioning to electric buses and trains, reducing urban pollution and greenhouse gases.
Public utilities commission (PUC)
State-level regulatory agencies that oversee electricity rates and service quality, such as the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Pumped hydro storage
A form of energy storage where water is pumped to a higher elevation during periods of low electricity demand and released to generate power during high demand.
Reduced water usage
Unlike coal or natural gas plants, which require significant amounts of water for cooling, renewable energy sources like wind and solar require minimal water, preserving water resources for other uses.
Renewable energy certificates (RECs)
Tradable certificates that represent the environmental benefits of generating one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity from renewable sources. RECs allow consumers to support renewable energy indirectly.
Renewable energy procurement
Businesses increasingly purchase renewable energy through power purchase agreements (PPAs) or green power programs, aligning their operations with sustainability goals and reducing overall emissions.
Renewable energy transition
The ongoing global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources for electricity generation, driven by environmental concerns, technological advancements, and energy security goals. This transition is supported by international agreements like the Paris Agreement.
Renewable microgrid
A self-contained energy system that can operate independently from the main grid and is often powered by renewable sources like solar and wind, combined with battery storage for reliability.
Renewable portfolio standard (RPS)
A policy requiring a specific percentage of electricity sales to come from renewable sources. California’s RPS is one of the most ambitious in the U.S.
Renewable-powered street lighting
Street lights powered by solar or wind energy reduce electricity costs for cities and improve safety with clean, reliable lighting.
Resilience to extreme weather
Renewable energy systems, especially distributed ones like rooftop solar, can provide power during grid outages caused by extreme weather events, increasing community resilience.
Rooftop solar panels
Solar panels installed on residential rooftops allow homeowners to generate their own electricity, often with excess power sent back to the grid through net metering.
Smart grid
An electricity network that uses digital technology to monitor and manage electricity flow, supporting renewable integration and efficient energy use.
Smart inverter
An advanced inverter that allows renewable energy systems to communicate with the grid, supporting grid stability and accommodating more renewable energy sources.
Smart thermostats
Connected devices that automatically adjust heating and cooling settings to reduce energy usage, especially during peak times when electricity is more expensive and carbon-intensive.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) system
A system that converts sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials. Often referred to simply as "solar panels."
Solar-powered gadgets
Devices like solar-powered phone chargers, lanterns, and even backpacks help consumers reduce their environmental impact while enjoying outdoor activities.
Sustainable development
Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their needs. Renewable energy is essential for achieving sustainable development goals.
Thermal energy storage
The storage of heat for later use, often used in concentrated solar power plants. Thermal storage systems can capture excess heat during the day and release it at night for electricity generation.
Tidal and wave power
Renewable energy generated by harnessing the movement of ocean tides or waves. These technologies are emerging as part of the clean energy landscape.
Time-of-use (TOU) rates
A pricing model that charges different rates based on the time of day, incentivizing users to shift energy use to off-peak times when renewables are more available.
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G)
Technology allowing electric vehicles to send power back to the grid when needed, helping balance electricity supply and demand.
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology
An emerging technology that enables electric vehicles to discharge energy back to the grid during peak demand, supporting grid stability and renewable integration.
Virtual power plant (VPP)
Acronym: VPP. Also called a “distributed energy resource (DER) network.” VPPs aggregate smaller energy sources, acting as a single power source.
Wave and tidal generators
Devices that capture the energy of ocean waves and tides. Though still emerging, wave and tidal energy hold significant potential for coastal regions.
Wind energy
Electricity generated by wind turbines that convert the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical power, which is then turned into electricity.
Zero net energy (ZNE)
A building or facility that produces as much energy as it consumes, often through renewable sources and high-efficiency design.
Zero-emission energy
Energy sources that do not produce greenhouse gases during operation, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.