Widespread power outages in Texas during a severe cold blast have caused some to question whether banning fossil fuels from new buildings makes sense.
Most homes with gas space heating went cold because most gas-powered heating systems require electricity to operate. But, after the lights went out, gas stoves allowed residents to boil water and cook food while electric appliances were useless.
The reductions in carbon emissions resulting from all-electric buildings supplied by clean power sources are still compelling, and there are ways to make the grid and individual buildings more resilient to power outages. For instance, attaching a small battery backup to a gas heating system enables it to run when the grid fails.
Solar panels with battery storage could also keep both electric stoves and electric heating systems running during grid outages. Batteries in electric vehicles could someday be tapped as a source of backup energy.
There are strategies that can make the grid more resilient, as well. Texas could winterize its electrical system, for starters. Also, microgrids at the building-level or community-level can generate and store their own electricity, relieving pressure on the grid, and may be able to continue providing power during regional outages.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2018
Seattle City Council repeals controversial new per-worker tax on large employers
Measure was aimed at raising $50 million for homeless services, affordable housing.
Codes and Standards | Jun 14, 2018
Hardscape from development makes ‘1,000-year’ flood in Maryland worse
Impermeable concrete made it easier for water to overwhelm drainage system.
Codes and Standards | Jun 13, 2018
United States Resiliency Council announces support for Calif. earthquake resiliency bill
Measure would help cities identify structures that could fail in major quake.
Codes and Standards | Jun 12, 2018
Congestion pricing for cars is effective in reducing traffic, but a difficult sell
After three years, traffic congestion declined by 30% in London.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2018
First RFP requiring modular construction on New York City housing project issued
Part of Housing 2.0 modular construction initiative.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
Buffalo, N.Y., contractor exec pleads guilty to fraud for bid rigging on $750 million contract
LPCiminelli stops functioning as GC in fallout from the case.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
LEED should be updated to combat climate change
Hasn’t kept pace with urgency of problem, says clean energy investor.
Codes and Standards | Jun 5, 2018
Sports stadiums and arenas showcase sustainability features
Green venues save owners money, gain positive publicity.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
L.A. must transition to cleaner energy, boost transit to reach sustainability goals
City aims to reduce GHGs 60% by 2035 and 80% by 2050.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
Washington D.C.’s flattened skyline can be a virtue
Zoning ordinance that ties building heights to width of streets dictates form.