FAQs

Have questions about renewable energy? We have answers!

General

What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy is energy that will never run out (unlike fossil fuels), because it is replenished by nature—most commonly, the sun. The main types of renewable energy are solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass.

What are the benefits of renewable energy?

There are many short-term and long-term benefits to renewable energy. First of all, renewable energy has a positive impact on the environment. Using renewable energy allows for the generation of heat and power without creating carbon dioxide. Cutting the levels of carbon dioxide will help stop extreme climate change. The methods used to produce fossil fuels and nuclear energy create long term air pollution and wastes water. There is also the risk of catastrophic accidents with these outdated methods. Using renewable energy, which can be harnessed with a low impact on the environment, will cut the production of fossil fuels and nuclear energy. Renewable energy will allow us as a whole to become more self-sufficient and not rely on fuel imports from other countries. More residential use of renewable energy will decrease the reliance on large utility companies for the production of energy.

How much does a renewable energy-harnessing system cost?

Unfortunately there is not a simple, straight answer to this question, as there are many factors that determine the cost of installing a renewable energy system, starting with the type and size of the system. However, in some areas there may be incentives or energy rebates to reduce the cost of a renewable energy system. Freedom Renewable Energy will help determine the best system for your needs and work with you to apply for incentives and rebates to help cut the costs.

How much will I save if I use renewable energy?

This depends on the amount of energy needed for your home and how much of that energy you choose to fill through renewable energy versus your public utility provider. A representative from Freedom Renewable Energy can help you determine the amount of energy that your new system will provide so you to compare to your current electricity and heating costs.

Are there incentives or tax credits for installing/using renewable energy?

There are various incentives, grants and rebate programs set up through local, state, and federal agencies, utility companies, and private organizations. To see what is available in your area, you can visit the DSIRE database or talk to your Freedom Renewable Energy representative, at 1.866.490.9952, who will discuss the programs available to you.

If I do qualify for a government incentive, is there a lot of "red tape?"

While there are always qualifications and an application process for incentive, grant or rebate programs, Freedom Renewable Energy will work with you through the whole process. We are familiar with the many different programs and we do the hard work for you.

Can using renewable energy in my house really make a difference?

Every bit can help. Not only does having your home use less fossil fuels make a positive impact on the environment, it will help spread the word of renewable energy. When people see you using renewable energy, they will be more apt to learn more and possibly add some type of renewable energy system to their home, keeping the movement growing. Also, over time your renewable energy system will save you money and eventually maybe make you money.

Is it hard to get started?

Not at all, especially with a trained professional from Freedom Renewable Energy. We know the specifics of renewable energy systems and will work with you to design the best system for your home. And our services do not end there; we will also install your system and help you with any zoning requirements for your town. We also work with you to make sure that you maximize your incentives, grants or rebate options to help lower the cost of your renewable energy system.

How do I know what type of renewable energy source is right for me?

There are many different types of renewable energy systems. The main types of renewable energy are solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass. Freedom Renewable Energy can help you determine the best system for your energy needs.

What is "the grid" and what does it mean to be "off the grid"?

"The grid" is the public utility system for delivering electricity to consumers. To be "off the grid" means to live without relying on public utility companies by being self-sufficient in creating the energy you need for your home.