What is Strategic Electrification?

Strategic electrification involves switching appliances, heating and cooling systems, and other energy users in your home to be electrically powered instead of dependent on fossil fuels. When paired with renewable energy sources, strategic electrification increases energy efficiency and reduces pollution. This method has the potential to lower energy costs as well.

As a part of a wider de-carbonization strategy, strategic electrification is being deployed in multiple sectors, like in residential and commercial spaces, transportation, and industry. Not only does it decrease energy costs and emissions, but it also increases grid flexibility and efficiency. Working in tandem with increased efficiency and a cleaner grid, strategic electrification can help us meet aggressive carbon reduction goals.

Why does it matter? 

Combustion-based technologies, unlike those run solely on renewables and electricity, emit greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxideopens PDF file . These emissions worsen air quality and contribute to climate change.

A recent Electrify This podcast from the think tank Energy Innovation: Policy and Technology LLC, entitled ‘How To Electrify Your Life: Getting Started At Home’, delves into how you can electrify your home.

A heat pump unit.

How can you get started?

There are some straightforward steps you can take at home by yourself or with the help of CET:

  1. Get a no-cost home energy assessment to identify home improvements that save money, electricity, and heating fuel.
  2. Switch from gas or propane to induction cooking. Unlike gas and electric cooktops, which use an open flame or heating element, induction cooking uses electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans directly. Induction cooking uses less carbon and is safer and faster than either gas or electric.
  3. Use air source heat pumps (ASHPs). Using ASHPs, which are powered by electricity, is an efficient way to both heat and cool your home year-round. They operate by moving heat between your indoor and outdoor environment. In the winter, they absorb heat from the outside air (even at below freezing temperatures!) and move it into your living space. In the summer, the cycle is reversed and they absorb heat in your home and move it outside. When heat pumps are paired with solar panels, homeowners save even more money while decreasing their environmental footprint. CET offers an Air Source Heat Pump Program, providing heat pump consultation services for NextZero customers. Call the NextZero hotline at 1-888-333-7525 to learn more.
  4. Have an electric hot water system installed in your home. Rebates are available through Mass Save to make the switch.
  5. Spread the word: Communicate with others in your social circles about the benefits of electrification.