MIT: Electric Heating Cuts Emissions, Costs

Sunita Somvanshi

Electric home heating reduces carbon emissions and lowers energy costs according to MIT research findings.

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Buildings reduced emissions by 18% since 2005, falling behind power sector's 34% reduction in carbon output.

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Successful conversion of homes to electric heating combines efficient heat pumps with proper wall and roof insulation.

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Research shows New England homes could use 30% less total energy through electric heating and improved insulation.

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Power companies require steady backup energy sources to maintain heat during multi-day cold periods.

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Gas and electric companies need combined planning to keep customer costs balanced during system changes.

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"Heat pumps cannot be installed without considering ways to reduce power demand," states energy expert Morgan Santoni-Colvin.

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State and federal support helps homeowners switch heating systems while utilities update their equipment

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MIT's study measured how switching to electric heat affects both power use and natural gas consumption.

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