Energy
Dictionary

 


green power

Generic term for any type of energy which is considered to have a lower environmental impact than commercially-produced energy. The actual meaning of green power is relative, and depends largely on where the term is applied and by whom. For example, Texas defines efficient natural gas generation as green power, a definition that certainly would not apply in areas served primarily by hydroelectricity. In such a region, nothing less than wind or tidal power might qualify as green power. As another example, the burning of ethanol from corn might be termed green power by an energy company, but an environmental group may not agree with this application of the term since the burning of methanol creates greenhouse gases, specifically carbon dioxide.

Strictly speaking, green power actually means green energy in nearly all contexts in which the term is used.

See also:

greenhouse effect, hydroelectricity, coal, power