GreenChoice^®—Frequently Asked Questions

What is renewable energy or green power?
It is electricity generated from natural sources such as wind, sun, and methane gas released from landfills. Because green power comes from renewable sources, like the wind and the sun, it is limitless and clean—it does not add pollution to the atmosphere.

How will I benefit by subscribing to GreenChoice?
By joining GreenChoice®, you make a lasting contribution to Austin's quality of life. Our reliance on fossil fuels will decrease along with the air pollution created by fossil fuel combustion. Also, the price for fossil fuels such as natural gas is currently rising. As a GreenChoice subscriber, your green power fuel charge remains fixed for up to 15 years.

If I sign up, will my home or business receive electricity generated from renewable energy?
When you subscribe to GreenChoice, Austin Energy contracts for green power to meet your needs. Green power then is delivered to our electric system daily. This means less electricity is needed from natural gas or coal-fired power plants.

The green power reaches Austin over the statewide transmission system. Once it enters our system, it mixes with power from the generating plants. This means the electricity generated from "green" sources is not be directed to a specific home or business. Rather, as more customers subscribe to GreenChoice, the proportion of green power in that mix grows larger and larger.