Lawmakers and regulators in an increasing number of states, including California and New York, are changing policies to promote the use of electricity instead of fossil fuels to power building heating and hot water systems.
With renewable power continuing to supplant coal-fired electric generation, electric heat pumps are now often the lowest-carbon choice for heating and cooling buildings and providing hot water. Most efficiency policies in most of the country, though, do not include incentives for homeowners or businesses to install these technologies.
Most policies have focused on reducing energy use regardless of the fuel source; not favoring one fuel over another. There have been notable exceptions, though. Regulators and lawmakers in Alaska, California, Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Vermont are encouraging fuel switching or fuel substitution through guidelines. Other states are also considering policies to promote electric heat pumps.
Improvements to a building shell, such as insulation and air sealing, can help reduce overall heating and cooling loads. This, in turn, can help downsize equipment needs and costs for heat pumps.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2017
Paper outlines how BREEAM credits can be used for WELL standard compliance
The paper provides guidance on how to streamline pursuit of dual certification.
Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2017
Evidence mounts on health, productivity benefits of sustainable work spaces
High-performance green buildings are linked to better job performance.
Codes and Standards | Feb 13, 2017
Calif. commission approves ‘emergency’ balcony code changes
The changes apply to multifamily, hotels, state-owned buildings, and public schools.
Codes and Standards | Feb 9, 2017
Google-initiated program aims to get construction industry to use healthier building materials
Portico platform features a database of products ranked on how they disclose ingredients.
Codes and Standards | Feb 7, 2017
Newer structural standards mitigating earthquake impacts in Oklahoma
Buildings constructed in the last two decades are largely holding up to increased seismic activity.
Codes and Standards | Feb 6, 2017
New York State offers $36 million for energy efficiency on commercial buildings
Programs will provide money for both owners and renters.
Codes and Standards | Feb 6, 2017
New white paper on modular bathroom pods offers insight on best uses
When to use them, cost, and installation are issues that are explored.
Codes and Standards | Feb 3, 2017
Justice in Design initiative to explore how to design a modern jail
The report will inform design principles for New York City jails.
Codes and Standards | Feb 1, 2017
Massachusetts, Colorado, Illinois lead annual Top 10 States for LEED Green Building list
LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance the most popular rating system in top 10 states.
Codes and Standards | Jan 31, 2017
Planning for world’s first floating city underway
New approach to resiliency examined in French Polynesia.
