How green gets on the grid

There are different types of renewable resources, but most undergo the same electric generation process. Typically, in order to generate electricity, a turbine connected to a generator must spin. This is the case with green power generated from wind, water and biomass. Wind turns the blades of a wind turbine, spinning a shaft that connects to a generator. Running water turns turbines connected to generators to create hydropower. Organic waste is burned to make steam that turns turbines and creates energy from biomass. In all these cases, the generator creating the green power is connected to the electric grid. The green power generated goes into the grid, mixes with existing power in the system, and is distributed over transmission lines.

Solar energy is the only form of energy that can be created through the use of photovoltaic cells, also called solar panels, which directly convert the sun's rays into electricity.

Learn more about FirstEnergy Solutions' green power products.

(06/10/08)