Did you know buildings produce as much smog as all of the light-duty vehicles in California? That's about 40% of all of the state's greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Last year, Berkeley was the first city in the country to adopt an electrification mandate for new construction and major rehabilitation. More than 30 California cities have followed similar ordinances, and this year we may also see efforts to increase electrification for existing buildings. A complete transition is taking place in our energy system, so investing in the electrification of your home is investing in the future.

 

"Greening" your home isn't just best for the planet. Renewable energy has proven to be increasingly more economic than fossil fuels and better for your health. For example, gas appliances leak methane from gas extraction and transmission, and if not vented outside the house, they can seep into your lungs. Studies show that gas stoves alone increase the risk of a child developing asthma by over 40%.

 

Homeowners spend an average of $2,000 a year on utilities. By making your home more efficient, you can cut your utility bills by about half. If you are looking to sell sometime in the future, making your house green increases its value. If you want to sell your home fast, studies show that homes with solar panels and other green features are on the market for significantly less time than those homes without. Agent surveys also show that 26% of their buyers find renewable energy systems "important" when purchasing a home.

 

As California transitions to more sustainable energy, homeowners can cash in using rebates. Come tax season, you can even claim a credit on your taxes for some qualified energy efficiency improvements.

 

• Upgrade to renewable energy by installing solar panels or investing in wind power

• Switch out your vehicle for a plug-in electric vehicle

• Replace your gas appliances such as your stove and fireplace with electric solutions

• Change your water, clothes dryer and space heaters to an electric heat pump (this can also result in free air conditioning)

• Make sure walls, attics, basements, chimneys and air ducts are properly insulated and sealed

• Swap your incandescent light bulbs for LED lights

• Check your faucets and showerheads for leaks

• Choose energy-certified appliances when you are looking to replace items

• Install high-efficiency windows

By electrifying your home and vehicle, your carbon footprint can decrease by 60% or more.

 

Moving your property to all-electric not only allows you to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, but you're also helping to build a sustainable future while helping out your checkbook, too.