Energy Solutions

The energy choices we make have an enormous impact. Electricity generated by coal burning power plants is a major source of global warming pollution in the United States.

But by reducing how much energy we use through energy-efficient technologies and by displacing dirty fossil fuels with clean electricity sources, we can build a cost-effective and sustainable energy future.

UCS research shows how renewable energy initiatives can help protect the environment andboost the economy. In the articles listed below—and in the Clean Energy section—explore practical, sustainable energy solutions that benefit us all.

GLOBAL WARMING ENERGY SOLUTIONS BASIC READING Clean Energy 101

GLOBAL WARMING ENERGY SOLUTIONS IN DEPTH Smart Energy Solutions

OUR ANALYSIS OF ENERGY SOLUTIONS TO GLOBAL WARMING Sources of Renewable Energy Why a National Energy Policy is Essential for a Clean Energy Future Nuclear Power in a Warming World Clean Energy: Choose Renewables First! Our energy choices have direct implications for our health, our environment, and our climate—and right now we are dangerously dependent on coal and other fossil fuels for most of our electricity needs. Power generation is a leading cause of air pollution and the single largest source of U.S. global warming emissions.  Coal is the worst offender, a dirty energy source that produces less than half our electricity but more than 80 percent of all power plant carbon emissions, along with significant and harmful levels of pollutants that degrade our environment and adversely impact our health. There’s a better, cleaner way to meet our energy needs.  Renewable energy resources like wind and solar power generate electricity with little or no pollution and global warming emissions—and could reliably provide up to 40 percent of U.S. electricity needs within the next 20 years. Where Does Our Electricity Come From?To move America toward a cleaner, healthier energy future, we need smart policy decisions focused on two primary goals: Increase renewable energy anddecrease the use of coal.  A variety of energy sources can be used to generate electricity, including coal, natural gas, nuclear power, and renewable resources like wind, water, plants, and the sun.   Smart Energy Solutions Government policies can either prop up dirty and dangerous energy sources like coal and nuclear power or support clean renewable electricity and increased energy efficiency—better, smarter solutions that benefit our health, our climate, and our pocketbooks. Energy and Water in a Warming World Generating electricity from energy sources like coal, biomass, and nuclear power requires water. A lot of water. This creates significant challenges and environmental costs—a problem that will only intensify as the Earth warms and water resources decline in many areas.  Energy Efficiency: The Ultimate Clean Energy If we use energy more efficiently, we need less of it in the first place. This decreases demand for new power plants and saves money for both families and businesses. It’s a pollution- free solution that is essential for our transition to a clean energy future.