Several local governments in California have passed building codes mandating that new buildings be 100% electric, banning the use of natural gas for space and water heating and cooking.
The state electrical grid is ready to handle additional demand from these actions, according to a post from the Natural Resources Defense Council. Electrification of space and water heating will increase California’s winter demand for electricity, but efficiency measures could blunt peaks.
Residential and commercial buildings will begin to shift to efficient heat pump space and water heaters, which can employ electricity during off-peak periods. Heat pump water heaters can function as thermal energy storage, preheating water when demand is low and renewable generation is abundant. They can then deliver hot water when demand is high, without drawing power from the grid.
Heat pump space heaters may also have some load-shifting potential. They can pre-heat homes at night to reduce the morning demand peak when people wake up.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 4, 2021
Biden administration overturns Trump’s federal building design mandate
Previous order promoted classical and “traditional” architecture above others.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2021
Texas freeze raises questions about risks of electrifying buildings
Gas stoves helped residents cook, boil water when power went out.
Codes and Standards | Mar 2, 2021
New Seattle building code eliminates fossil fuels for most space and water heating
Also increases on-site solar photovoltaics, reduces envelope heat loss, air leakage, and interior lighting power allowances.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2021
It’s not just lumber—roofing material prices are also on the rise
Lower demand for petroleum products means less asphalt production.
Codes and Standards | Feb 23, 2021
USGBC offers education on LEED Safety First pilot credits
Four courses address COVID-19.
Codes and Standards | Feb 23, 2021
ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force releases updated Building Readiness Guide
Includes flush calculations to reduce time and energy to clear contaminants between occupancy periods.
Codes and Standards | Feb 22, 2021
Preservation of Affordable Housing develops climate resilience strategy
Includes backup power for resident and staff “area of refuge”.
Codes and Standards | Feb 18, 2021
Construction industry moves toward comprehensive U.S. BIM standard
NIBS hosts roundtable to create coordinated program to advance collaboration.
Codes and Standards | Feb 17, 2021
Construction on international sports venues is ripe for corruption
Poor planning, complex contracting, a lack of accountability and high levels of collusion to blame.
Codes and Standards | Feb 16, 2021
Feds may fund removal of some urban highways
Senate bill proposes pilot program to reknit communities.