Transitioning from fossil fuels (e.g., goal and natural gas) to low-carbon sources of electricity is essential for reaching carbon neutrality. While much of the energy purchased from electric utilities is currently derived from fossil fuels, this will be reduced significantly during the lifespan of many of our investments in vehicles, appliances, and building heating and cooling systems. As technology progresses and market forces increase demand, our electricity-powered options for such purchases continue to multiply. .
In addition, rising fossil energy costs are making the return on investment in electric-powered options even more favorable. A recent study about the cost of decarbonizing buildings found that an all-electric single-family home is $7,500-$8,200 cheaper to construct than a home based on current baseline codes since it avoids the expense of infrastructure needed to burn fossil fuels as energy. The life cycle cost analysis for this prototype demonstrated that the all-electric scenario reduced total energy consumption by 34%, considering homeowners’ direct costs and the societal cost of carbon. By making our buildings all-electric, we are poised to achieve zero net carbon as soon as green power from the grid is more widely available.
Our Tips for Fostering the Transition to Zero Carbon Buildings provides useful tips for fostering the transition to full electrification for all Arlington residents and includes up-to-date links to many educational resources and financial assistance programs.
Here are some ideas of how our actions can help drive change and save money in the long run:
- Get a home energy audit and take recommended steps to improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce heating and cooling costs, and be more comfortable.
- Research electric induction stoves and heat pump technology for heating, hot water, and dryers and plan to replace fossil gas systems and appliances as they near the end of their life. EPA’s Energy Star Program and Consumer Reports are good places to start.
- Check with your electrician to determine what upgrades you might need to fully electrify your home.
- Keep your car for as long as possible (we can’t forget about embedded carbon in what we buy) and use it as little as possible. Walk, bike, or use public transit when feasible. When it’s time to replace your car, consider an electric vehicle
- Replace your gas-powered lawn equipment with quieter, less polluting electric equivalents or seek out a landscaping company that uses electric equipment. Better yet replace your lawn with native trees, shrubs, and other plants.
Join the Arlington Solar and EV Charger Co-op
Since its launch in 2015, over 400 households have participated to add solar panels to their rooftops and more recently to install EV chargers. A record 106 solar systems were installed in 2021, almost double any previous year. New members are being accepted through August 31 and information sessions are scheduled for June 8 at 12 pm and June 12 at 6 pm. For more details visit the Solar United Neighbors Co-op website.
This content originally appeared The EcoAdvocate newsletter produced by the EcoAction Arlington Advocacy Committee. For more information about the Advocacy Committee, please visit ecoactionarlington.org/get-involved/ecoaction-arlingtondvocacy/