We need smart energy solutions that provide reliable and affordable electricity, contribute to a strong economy, and do not compromise our health or our climate. No single energy technology can accomplish all of this.
The answer lies instead in a diverse energy strategy that offers the greatest potential to move the country toward a clean, sustainable energy future.
Increase renewable energy
Renewable energy is reliable, affordable, and beneficial for our health, our economy, and our climate.
UCS supports practical, cost-effective policies that promote renewable energy and lower barriers to its adoption. These include strong renewable electricity standards, financial incentives like clean energy tax credits, and investment in a smarter electrical grid.
Learn more about how we can increase renewable energy >
Decrease coal use
Coal is our dirtiest source of energy. It releases more harmful pollutants into the atmosphere than any other energy source and produces a quarter of the nation’s global warming emissions. If we are going to effectively reduce air pollution and address global warming, we need to shut down the oldest, dirtiest coal plants—and not build new ones to replace them.
Learn more about decreasing our coal use >
Improve energy efficiency
If we use energy more efficiently, we need less of it in the first place. Improving the efficiency of our power generation—along with increased efficiency in buildings, appliances, and electronic devices—can create significant energy savings that would allow us to safely and reliably shut down old, dirty power plants.
More on improving energy efficiency >
Regional Work
California and western states
California is a global leader in renewable energy and has set a goal of producing 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
Learn more about renewable energy in California, or our wider work in the west >
Midwestern states
Long dependent on coal for the majority of its electricity, the Midwest now sits at an important crossroads—one that will determine where its electricity comes from for decades ahead.
Learn more about renewable energy in the Midwest >
Northeastern states
Site of the nation’s likely first offshore wind facility, the Northeast also has minimal coal in its electricity mix—and plans to significantly increase its renewables portfolio.
Learn more about renewable energy in the Northeast >
Southeastern states
Coal currently dominates in a region flush with renewable resources but with minimal installations of renewable facilities.
Learn more about renewable energy in the Southeast >
