alternative energy

American  

noun

1. energy, as solar, wind, or nuclear energy, that can replace or supplement traditional fossil-fuel sources, as coal, oil, and natural gas.

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alternative energy British  

noun

1. Also called: renewable energy.  a form of energy derived from a natural source, such as the sun, wind, tides, or waves

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Etymology

Origin of alternative energy

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

That partly reflects changes in the economy, such as more energy-efficient machinery and cars, a greater stock of oil supplies and a broader range of alternative energy sources.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Shell announced in November that it was ending its participation in two offshore wind projects in the North Sea, part of its shift away from alternative energy to focus on its fossil fuels business.

From Barron's • Feb. 5, 2026

Big Tech companies may increasingly also pursue alternative energy sources as well.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 17, 2026

And some of the carbon-free alternative energy sources that could meet their power needs are deeply controversial among environmentalists.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2025

The Energy Security Act also provides significant incentives for the development of gasohol and biomass fuels, thereby enhancing the nation's supply of alternative energy sources.

From State of the Union Address by Carter, Jimmy