The concept known as “environmentally beneficial electrification” is gaining traction among a growing number of groups, including your local electric cooperative, Wake Electric. Frequently promoted to reduce greenhouse gases and help the environment, beneficial electrification also helps members by providing products that are cleaner, quieter and easier to maintain.

Conventional appliances fueled on-site, like natural gas water heaters, have been traditionally thought to be more efficient and easier on the environment. However, thanks to the flexibility of the electric grid itself, electricity today is using less fossil fuel per kilowatt-hour of energy produced. More utilities are shifting to renewable technologies and make existing generation technologies cleaner.

Electric appliances themselves are also becoming more efficient or “greener” because of technological improvements and increased government standards. So, what will change around the home and how will it impact you?

• Lawnmowers Major changes are happening to small motors around your home—like the one in your lawnmower or leaf blower. There are already corded and cordless models available and as batteries continue to improve and fall in cost, consumers can expect to see cordless models dominate.
• Heat Pumps/Water Heaters Hybrid heat pump/water heaters are far more efficient than standard electric water heaters and still offer the benefits of an electric-only system, such as quiet operation and greater durability.
• Electric Vehicles The car in your driveway may change out its gas tank for a battery. Electric vehicles are widely praised for being safer, easier to maintain (no oil changes) and performing better on the road with more acceleration and torque. Currently more expensive than their gas-fueled counterparts, electric vehicles will fall in price as more companies enter the market and battery technology improves. Wake Electric also offer special rates for members who purchase electric vehicles. For more information, click here.

While gas-fueled appliances and vehicles aren’t going away anytime soon, beneficial electrification is going to transform your home over the next five to 10 years and Wake Electric is here to help guide the way.