Benefits of going electric

California’s buildings represent about 25% of the state’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Building electrification—switching from fossil fuels to electricity use for space heating, water heating, cooking and clothes drying—is an important strategy to reduce GHGs. A study jointly funded by SMUD, Southern California Edison and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power identified key benefits of building electrification. Read the study: Residential Building Electrification in California.

Greenhouse gas savings

Eliminating natural gas for cooking and space and water heating in an existing low-rise multifamily property reduces GHG emissions by 25 to 46 percent. In new construction, the reduction can be as much as 65 percent.

Building costs

New construction costs can be reduced by eliminating the infrastructure for natural gas. Longer term, it eliminates maintenance and repair of natural gas piping.

Safety

Induction cooktops produce zero kitchen pollution. Natural gas stoves can release carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and other harmful pollutants into the air. And, since the surface is completely sealed, it's safer because there’s no exposed heating element or open flame. And, unless cookware is on it, the cooktop doesn’t heat up — even if it’s turned on.

Cost effectiveness

A single electric heat pump can replace an air conditioning unit and a furnace, reducing capital costs and the ongoing costs of maintaining two separate pieces of equipment.

Incentives from SMUD for electrification measures, including induction cooktops, heat pump HVAC and heat pump water heaters, can reduce the up-front costs of going electric.

To get started, complete the Multifamily Program interest form. If you have any questions, email MultifamilySupport@frontierenergy.com or call 916-382-0332.