The advantages of renewable energy are numerous and affect the economy, environment, national security, and human health. Here are some of the benefits of using renewable energy in the United States:

• Enhanced reliability, security, and resilience of the nation’s power grid
• Job creation throughout renewable energy industries 
• Reduced carbon emissions and air pollution from energy production
• Increased U.S. energy independence
• Increased affordability, as many types of renewable energy are cost-competitive with traditional energy sources
• Expanded clean energy access for non-grid-connected or remote, coastal, or islanded communities.

Learn more about the advantages of wind energy, solar energy, bioenergy, geothermal energy, hydropower, and marine energy, and how the U.S. Department of Energy is working to modernize the grid.

Backup Power Supply Distributed Outdoor Energy Storage Cabinet Self-Cooling-PW-164

Renewable energy generates about 20% of all U.S. electricity, and that percentage continues to grow. The following graphic breaks down the shares of total electricity production in 2021 among the types of renewable power:

In 2022, solar and wind energy are expected to add more than 60% of the utility-scale generating capacity to the U.S. power grid (46% from solar, 17% from wind).

The United States is a resource-rich country with abundant renewable energy resources. The amount available is 100 times that of the nation’s annual electricity need. Read more about renewable energy potential in the United States.

Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) is the hub of renewable energy applied research, development, and demonstration activities in the United States.

EERE has three pillars: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Transportation, and Energy Efficiency. The Renewable Energy pillar comprises four technology offices:

Every American can advocate for renewable energy by becoming a Clean Energy Champion. Both small and large actions make a difference. Join the movement.