Transcript:

Electric heat pumps are rapidly gaining popularity. That’s good for the climate because they’re efficient and can run on clean electricity when it’s available.

But their widespread use means power companies will face intense demand during winter cold snaps. Already, some are seeing demand peak in winter.

Mike Specian of the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy says that for utilities, meeting those peaks can be expensive and challenging – especially if natural gas infrastructure freezes.

So to prepare to meet growing demand, some may invest in new power plants.

Specian: “And someone has to pay for that, typically ratepayers, which means electricity costs can increase. A better solution, we would argue, is to lower demand rather than increasing supply.”

By investing in weatherization programs …

Specian: “The insulation of attics and air sealing, insulation of walls.”

… and with ‘demand response’ programs. Customers who opt into these programs save money. And in exchange, the utility can reduce their home’s energy use when the grid is strained – for example, by slightly adjusting their thermostat.

So by participating in these programs, consumers can lower their bills and support a transition to a clean, electric future.

Reporting credit: ChavoBart Digital Media