In the world of energy, you might hear terms like “marginal unit of energy production” tossed around. But what does that actually mean, and why should you care about where that next unit of energy comes from? Let’s dive into what this term really means, and explore why it’s so crucial that the next marginal unit of energy is generated from renewable sources.

What is the Next Marginal Unit of Energy Production?

The concept of the “marginal unit” of energy production is a bit like ordering one more item at a restaurant. Let’s say you’re really hungry and decide to order a side of fries on top of your meal. That extra order is your marginal addition—the fries are the extra bit that tips your meal over the edge.

In the energy world, the marginal unit is the next “extra” unit of electricity that’s needed to meet demand. It’s the power plant that’s switched on when people crank up their air conditioning on a hot day, or when factories ramp up production. This marginal unit can come from various sources—coal, natural gas, wind, solar, or other energy types. And this is where things get interesting (and important).

Why the Marginal Unit Matters

The source of the next marginal unit is critical because it often sets the tone for the environmental impact of all our electricity use. When demand increases, energy providers have to decide where that additional energy will come from. If it’s a fossil fuel plant, the impact is significant—carbon emissions, air pollution, and more strain on our environment. If it’s a renewable source, the impact is much lighter, if not entirely clean.

The Problem with Fossil Fuels as the Marginal Unit

For a long time, fossil fuels like coal and natural gas have been the go-to for these marginal units. Why? Because fossil fuel plants can ramp up production quickly to meet sudden demand. But this convenience comes at a high cost. Every time a coal or gas plant is called upon to provide that extra energy, it releases greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and air pollution.

The more often these fossil fuel plants are used, the more we lock ourselves into a cycle of environmental harm. And here’s the kicker: even if the majority of your energy comes from cleaner sources, that marginal unit of dirty energy is still there, adding to the problem.

The Renewable Solution

Now, imagine if the next marginal unit came from renewable energy instead. Every time we increase our reliance on renewables like wind or solar for those extra energy needs, we’re reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. It’s like choosing a healthy snack instead of fries every time you get hungry—it makes a big difference in the long run.

When renewable sources provide the next marginal unit, there’s no spike in carbon emissions, no added pollution. The energy is clean, sustainable, and it helps drive the transition to a greener grid. Over time, as more renewables are added to the energy mix, they start to take over that marginal role more frequently. This shift is crucial for accelerating our move toward a fully renewable energy future.

Why Should You Care?

Understanding the role of the next marginal unit of energy production gives you a clearer picture of why it’s so important to support renewable energy. It’s not just about the energy you use every day; it’s about what happens when you—and millions of others—need just a little bit more. Every time that extra energy comes from a renewable source instead of a fossil fuel, we’re making progress toward a cleaner, healthier planet.

Supporting renewable energy—whether it’s through policies, purchasing renewable energy certificates, or advocating for cleaner energy infrastructure—ensures that when the next marginal unit is needed, it’s more likely to come from a wind farm or solar array than a coal plant. And that’s a win for everyone.

The Future of U.S. Energy

The next marginal unit of energy production might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of things, but it has a big impact. It’s a reflection of where we’re headed as a country—whether we continue to rely on old, polluting energy sources, or embrace the clean, renewable energy that will power our future.

By pushing for that next unit to come from renewable sources, we’re not just making an immediate difference—we’re setting the stage for a long-term shift toward a more sustainable energy grid. So, next time you think about energy, remember: every unit counts, especially the next one. Let’s make sure it’s renewable.