How clean is the electricity I use? - Power Profiler
UPDATE (May 10, 2012): Emission rates and resource mix used in this application have been updated with eGRID2012 with year 2009 data. An updated spreadsheet that reveals eGRID subregions and output emissions rates for greenhouse gases from entered ZIP codes is available at the bottom of this page.
In the United States, electricity is generated in many different ways, with a wide variation in environmental impact. Electricity generation from the combustion of fossil fuels contributes toward unhealthy air quality, acid rain, and global climate change.
Many electricity customers can choose their provider of electricity or can purchase green power from their utility. In fact, you might now have the option of choosing cleaner, more environmentally friendly sources of energy.
Power Profiler will:
- Determine your power grid region based on your ZIP code and electric utility
- Compare the fuel mix and air emissions rates of the electricity in your region to the national average
- Determine the air emissions impacts of electricity use in your home or business
Power Profiler is very easy to use and takes about 5 minutes. To start, all you need is your ZIP code.
Power Profiler currently uses year 2009 data from EPA’s Emissions & Generation Resource Integrated Database (eGRID).
The Power Profiler report will show you the air emissions attributable to the electricity you use in your home or business during one year, along with a description of what these numbers mean in everyday terms.
Sample Power Profiler Report
High-res version of Power Profiler Report »
Text only version of Power Profiler Report »
Power Profiler eGRID subregion and GHG emissions finder tool
The following spreadsheet is useful to those who are estimating indirect greenhouse gas emissions from electricity purchases at many locations.