I wouldn't call myself an eco-warrior or anything like that, but lately, I've become more aware of my personal impact on the environment. From keeping the lights on too long to running water while I brushed my teeth, I wasn't making the best decisions.

After a talk with my brother-in-law, who is very active when it comes to environmental issues, he told me about SmartEnergy, an independent energy supplier that promises to supply customers with reliable electricity sourced from 100% renewable resources.

"They even sent me a $100 gift card," was what he reeled me in with.

Still, I wasn't sure if signing up for SmartEnergy would be enough to help decrease my energy consumption or if signing up would even be an easy thing to do on my own.

Would I really be rewarded simply for switching?

After learning all I could I was confident that SmartEnergy was the right choice for me!

Here's how easy it was to sign up:

1. Check your zip code on SmartEnergy's website.

First things first, I entered my zip code to see if SmartEnergy was available in my state and what plans were available for my area.

Once I verified that SmartEnergy was available where I live, I found out that in all available states, SmartEnergy purchases renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset 100% of their consumers' electricity usage. First things first, I entered my zip code to see if SmartEnergy was available in my state and what plans were available for my area.

Once I verified that SmartEnergy was available where I live, I found out that in all available states, SmartEnergy purchases renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset 100% of their consumers' electricity usage.

2. Pick a plan

The second step was to find the plan that best fit my needs. I chose SmartEnergy's 6-month, fixed-rate plan. Afterward, I'll decide if I want to continue with another fixed-rate plan or move to a variable rate.

I didn't even have to contact my current utility provider; SmartEnergy did all the heavy lifting for me. And, even better, I learned my current provider continues to deliver my electricity, send my monthly bill, and respond to emergencies. So no interruptions or delays when switching.

SmartEnergy has clearly made this as seamless of a sign-up as possible.

3. Create your online account

Next, I filled out the account information section and created an online SmartEnergy account with the usual: name, address, city, etc. I was relieved to learn that none of my info entered on the SmartEnergy site would be compromised, and the company never shares personal data without permission.

4. Complete and receive reward

The final step to completing my SmartEnergy sign-up was grabbing my utility bill to connect my accounts. SmartEnergy also offers the option to either give them a call or have them call you when it's convenient.

It is official; yes, I was rewarded simply for signing up for SmartEnergy. I finished setting up my account, I was eligible for a $100 Gift Card after I enjoyed 6 months of renewable electricity! To think my brother-in-law was actually on to something.

With SmartEnergy I now have access to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power and can rest assured knowing that I'm offsetting my carbon footprint.

SmartEnergy is not only the cleaner option, but the simplest in my opinion. And all I had to do was go through a simple online sign-up.

Sign up today and start harnessing the power of clean, sustainable, renewable energy.

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!