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4 Cornerstones of All-Electric Buildings

Only about a third of U.S. commercial buildings are all-electric, but more and more are making the switch. Going all-electric means replacing fossil fuels with electricity for HVAC, water heating and cooking. When paired with renewable energy sources, this approach sets new standards for efficiency, health and environmental stewardship. Here’s a look at the four key cornerstones underpinning the success of all-electric buildings.

1. Electrification technologies

The first cornerstone of all-electric buildings is the advanced technologies that make them possible.

Air source and geothermal heat pumps replace natural gas boilers. They efficiently transfer heat to or from the ground or air, providing consistent heating and cooling.
Heat pump water heaters extract heat from the surrounding air to heat water, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional gas water heaters.
Induction cooktops heat pots and pans directly using electromagnetic fields, offering precise temperature control and faster cooking times. They are also easier to clean and reduce energy consumption.

These technologies integrate far more seamlessly with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, sensors and control systems, enabling precise energy management and real-time optimization of building operations.

2. Energy efficiency

Electric appliances and systems demonstrate superior energy efficiency compared to fossil-fueled counterparts. For example, heat pumps can be up to 300% more efficient than conventional combustion heating systems. This efficiency translates into lower energy consumption and reduced operating costs.

If you are considering going all-electric, use the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®, a free tool from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This resource helps you compare your building's performance against similar structures, identify the most effective energy-saving opportunities and prioritize areas for electrification.

3. Renewable energy

Renewable energy systems — such as on-site solar and wind — can help power your electric systems and reduce your energy costs. Using clean energy to power your all-electric building can also improve your sustainability profile. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that electrification could reduce building emissions by 45%. Unlike fossil-fueled systems that emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants, all-electric systems produce zero on-site emissions, helping businesses meet their sustainability goals.

4. Electric vehicle charging

Complete your electrification journey by installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at your facility. EV use is growing, and charging stations can help attract EV-driving employees, visitors and customers. It's a great way to show off your commitment to sustainability, and it can help attract more customers and add a potential source of revenue.

If you have fleet vehicles, consider switching to EVs. Today's electric models provide plenty of range, operate cleaner and require less maintenance than their fossil-fueled counterparts.

At the end of the day, all-electric buildings are more climate-friendly and cost less to operate. For more information on switching your building to all-electric, including potential challenges, check out the Building Electrification 101 resource from the Building Electrification Institute.

We’re here to be a resource for your business. From electrification resources to energy efficiency solutions and renewable energy options and electric vehicle charging needs, we have you covered.