In recent years, I've been trying to reduce my carbon footprint without raising my bills. Unfortunately, every eco-friendly alternative usually costs more money.

Other than keeping my lights off, I wanted to know if there was anything I could do to decrease my non-renewable energy consumption.

I did some research and it turns out the solution was simpler than I thought: SmartEnergy. You keep your same utility, but they supply 100% renewable energy to your home at a fixed rate!

This was exactly what I was looking for, but I had a lot of questions. Here's what consumers need to know:

1. You'll Get A $100 Visa Gift Card

Once you're signed up, you'll be eligible for $100 from SmartEnergy as a sign up bonus after you enjoy 6 months of renewable electricity! After those 6 months, you can decide if you want to continue with a fixed rate or a variable rate.

2. You Keep The Same Utility

You're not switching your utility; you're choosing a new supplier. So all of your billing information will be the same.

3. It's Easy To Get Started

You can call or sign up online and you only need one thing: your electricity bill. I grabbed my bill, and the representative walked me through exactly what was needed to get me started. It's available in Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington D.C.

4. 100% Renewable Energy Can Power Your Home

Currently, the energy your utility is supplying your home is probably not renewable, but powered by the default fossil fuels your electric company uses. In states where it's deregulated, and the consumer has the right to choose their electricity supplier, SmartEnergy supplies 100% renewable energy, without changing your utility company.

5. Every Sign Up Is A Planted Tree

For every new customer they get, SmartEnergy will plant a tree in the forest of that state, through a partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation! They've planted over 250,000 trees to date.

All I had to do was make one phone call, and my energy is now 100% renewable! I'm also so happy to have been able to contribute to increased forestation efforts. If you ever want to cancel, there's no termination fee.

Knowing I'm on a fixed rate doesn't lead to any monthly billing surprises, and my experience is exactly the same. SmartEnergy is doing the hard work, so I can sit back, watch tv, and know I'm contributing to a better world.

The team at SmartEnergy is extending a special offer to our readers! Follow this link to get a $100 VISA gift card when you sign up for SmartEnergy and enjoy 6 months of service!