What is electricity? Electricity is the flow of electrons in a circuit. It is a secondary energy source which means that we get it from the conversion of other sources of energy, like coal, natural gas, oil, nuclear power and other natural sources, which are primary sources. In that sense, electricity is a carrier of energy. It carries the energy of a primary source such as flowing water or steam that is then converted to a useful form such as light, motion, or heat. Why are we concerned about conserving electricity? Think about the electricity you use in your home. If you live in Lane County, the primary source of your electric energy could be a hydroelectric dam in Oregon or a wind farm in Wyoming. Some day it might come from tidal movement, geothermal energy, nuclear energy, or solar energy as well. Whatever the primary source, the energy is converted, usually by generators, into electricity that is carried to your home through wires. Once in your home, the electricity is used to perform useful functions like lighting, cooking food, powering your television, or heating your home. In the process energy is transformed a number of times.