Just Energy

What is electricity?

Electricity is a convenient and controllable form of energy that we use every day to power our appliances, provide light and cool our homes. Electricity is a secondary energy source, meaning it is generated from the conversion of primary sources of energy, such as fossil fuels (coal, natural gas and oil), nuclear power and renewable sources (wind, hydro, solar, geothermal).

Where does electricity come from?

There are a variety of sources of electricity:

Fossil fuels

The burning of coal, natural gas and oil in power plants using gas turbines or heat engines produces heat which, when combined with steam, generates electricity. 

Nuclear power

Nuclear fission is used to split atoms and harness the energy released to generate heat and electricity.

Hydro/wind

Water and wind are used in dams and windmills to power turbines that create heat and electricity.

Solar

The sun's rays are harnessed by photovoltaic panels that allow electrons to move freely among them, eventually meeting a circuit wire and converting into electricity.

Geothermal

This form of energy is generated in the Earth's core which has temperatures hotter than the sun's surface produced by the slow decay of radioactive particles, a process that occurs in all rocks.

  

Which sources of power contribute to pollution?

Although the cheapest form of generating power is through the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas and oil, it is also the most hazardous to the environment. The burning of these fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which has been linked to serious environmental complications including: global warming, climate change, air pollution, natural disasters, habitat destruction and chronic health problems.


 

Which sources of power are green?

Energy generated through renewable sources such as hydro, wind, solar and geothermal are green. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources of power do not deplete natural resources. They are also cleaner sources of energy that do not pollute the environment with carbon emissions.

Although renewable energy sources are better for the health of our planet, they typically cost more than other sources of energy, which is why the majority of our electricity is not generated from green sources.

Just Energy's JustGreen Power product makes it possible for you to ensure that the equivalent of up to 100% of your electricity consumption is generated from renewable sources.

Click here to learn more.

Although Just Energy's green energy options are available in most of the markets we serve, they are not yet available in all of our markets. Click here to see which markets we currently offer green energy options in.