Why Electrify?
In Albany, our electricity comes from carbon-free and renewable sources which are much cleaner than fossil fuels, such as natural gas. All-electric appliances, powered by this clean energy, improve indoor air quality, make buildings more resilient, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Clean Electricity
Although most people associate greenhouse gas emissions with vehicles and power plants, buildings are actually a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In Albany, 40% of greenhouse gas emissions come from natural gas combustion for fueling homes and businesses.
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Albany's electricity is provided by East Bay Community Energy (EBCE), a non-profit public agency. EBCE was created to offer cleaner power to the East Bay at affordable prices. Thanks to EBCE, Albany's electricity is cleaner and more carbon-free than ever before.
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Natural gas, on the other hand, is a carbon-based fuel that emits potent greenhouse gases. In fact, the average Albany home uses enough natural gas to put 3 Tons of CO2​ into the atmosphere annually. That's the equivalent of driving 7500 miles. That's like driving from Albany, California to Albany, New York and back, then driving halfway there again!
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The best way to reduce emissions from buildings is by replacing your gas-burning appliances with all-electric ones. All-electric appliances can be powered by renewable and carbon-free energy, whether it's coming from EBCE or your own home solar system.
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Additional Benefits of Electrification
Health:
Fossil fuel combustion leads to release of nitrous oxides and particulate matter that can cause negative health impacts, such as asthma, respiratory illness, and even cancer. All-electric appliances eliminate the byproducts from natural gas combustion in a building, improving indoor air quality and comfort.
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Cost-Savings:
Many electric appliances are extremely fuel-efficient which can lead to cost-savings on your utility bill. The greatest savings come from installing solar panels, which allow you to produce your own energy, rather than buying it from the power company!
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All-Electric New Construction Ordinances
Albany has set a goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050! Achieving this will be impossible without electrifying Albany’s buildings.
As part of this effort, Many cities, including Berkeley, San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland, are pursuing ordinances that ban natural gas hookups in new construction. The City of Albany does not yet have an all-electric new construction ordinance in place, but the Albany City Council recently adopted new green building measures that heavily incentivize all-electric new construction.
Electrification of new and existing buildings is a high priority in Albany’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Electrifying your home now will put you at the head of the curve! Learn more about Albany’s plan and what you can do to help here.