Electrifying misconceptions
Let’s correct the record on the cost of electrifying buildings and what Oak Park’s new ordinance really means [Electrifying buildings and its costs, Viewpoints, March 27]:
First, the village now requires only that new construction be all-electric. But when it does require renovations to include switching from gas to electric heating/cooling and appliances, we could renovate our way to homes that are safer (cleaner indoor air and reduced fire risk), more comfortable (more even heating/cooling), and cheaper to operate.
Why? Electric heat pumps heat and cool much more efficiently (and evenly) than conventional furnaces and AC systems. Induction stoves and heat pump hot water heaters are also much more efficient than either gas or conventional electric ones, costing less to operate while working much faster. Insulating and weatherizing your home further reduce energy consumption, and therefore costs.
But what about cost? Electrical upgrades are necessary, but prices of new electric appliances are rapidly coming down, with more choices for consumers. Meanwhile, lower energy bills help offset installation costs, while all these upgrades increase property values. Plus, tax credits and rebates from federal, state, and local programs, including special income-based incentives for homeowners, landlords, and even renters, also cut costs for weatherizing and electrifying.
Finally, you can spread out the costs by electrifying appliances as they need replacement. Where to start? Check out the resources at https://opcan.org/resources.
Got questions? Take advantage of climate coaches (https://opcan.org/climate-coaches), a peer-to-peer coaching service for all residents, offered by Oak Park Climate Action Network in partnership with the village.
Ditching gas has many benefits, including long-term savings in money as well as energy.
The savings in climate-heating emissions? Priceless.
Wendy Greenhouse
Oak Park Climate Action Network
This was originally posted on the Wednesday Journal on 4/9/2024