Clean energy refers to energy that comes from renewable, zero-emission sources that do not pollute the atmosphere when used
. It is often used interchangeably with "renewable energy," which includes sources such as sunlight, wind, water movement, and geothermal heat
. Clean energy is different from "green" energy, which refers to energy resources that provide the greatest environmental benefit
. Clean energy is important because it allows us to generate the energy we need without emitting greenhouse gases and contributing to climate change
. The most common types of clean energy include wind energy, solar energy, hydroelectric energy, and nuclear energy
. The clean energy industry generates hundreds of billions in economic activity and is expected to continue to grow rapidly in the coming years