Implementing beneficial electrification programs

Implementing beneficial electrification programs
 

Programs with shocking potential

Increased net margins. Improved load factors. Reduced net service-territory emissions. Beneficial electrification programs designed to replace outdated fossil-fuel equipment can be a win-win for electric utilities and customers alike.

Definition

Beneficial electrification programs promote the replacement of fossil fuel equipment with electric equipment. The design of these programs maximizes their application to every type of customer segment, from residential and commercial to industrial and agricultural. With a reliance on an increased use of electric end-use equipment, these programs result in lower net emissions.

History

Beneficial electrification programs began in the early 1990s when utilities began exploring the potential of these programs for residential and commercial heat pumps, followed by industrial heating and transportation. Even with limited access to technologies we take for granted today, utilities viewed beneficial electrification programs as having significant technical potential.

In recent years, two recent developments have expanded the potential for beneficial electrification programs. The first: improved technology for heat pumps, electric vehicles, and other equipment. The second: improvements in battery and charging technologies.

Benefits

Benefits and opportunities for utilities that adopt beneficial electrification programs include:

  • An increase in revenues and net margins.
  • Improved load factors for more efficient operation.
  • Reduced net emissions of carbon into the atmosphere.

Impacts of a sample beneficial electrification program include:

  • Trends in commercial and residential electric vehicle (EV) readiness planning
  • Assessing the potential cost and benefits of transportation electrification

Watch Implementing Beneficial Electrification Programs, then discover more about smart electrification solutions for the communities you serve. 

Meet the authors
  1. David Pickles, Senior Vice President: Strategy, Energy, Environment, and Infrastructure

    David has more than 30 years of experience advising clients on utility resource planning, energy efficiency, demand-side management, non-traditional product and service development, and operations of unregulated utility subsidiaries. View bio

  2. Philip Sheehy, Director, Transportation and Energy

    Philip is committed to identifying cost-effective solutions to meet the challenge of decarbonization, with over 15 years of experience navigating the technical, economic, and regulatory challenges associated with decarbonizing transportation fuels.  View bio

  3. Bob DiBella, Principal, Beneficial Electrification

    An energy industry expert with over 30 years of experience, Bob helps utilities develop customer programs that increase sustainability, improve relationships, and drive revenue streams. View bio