Building decarbonization cuts pollution and boosts the economy. Here’s how state regulators can accelerate both.
by Silvio Marcacci, Forbes
Highlights
- Existing buildings and their components are difficult to replace and therefore are difficult to decarbonize
- Residential and commercial buildings in the United States account for 1 billion metric tons of emissions annually
- Electrification now reduces greenhouse gas emissions in 46 out of 48 states
- It is cost-effective to build out all-electric buildings vs. incorporating natural gas
- More equitable policies and incentives are needed to transition from gas to electric within frontline communities as an unmanaged transition could make gas prices four times more expensive
- Electrifying buildings could help in job creation across the country
The Climate Center works toward electrifying buildings and vehicles using 100% clean energy sources such as solar and wind to eliminate fossil fuel-based emissions.