By Shawna Glendy

    In a time where there seems to be a sudden urgency to address climate change, Beneficial Electrification emerges as a strategy to transform our energy landscape.  This approach involves replacing fossil fuel (propane, heating oil and gasoline) use with electricity in ways that reduce emissions and offer a way to a cleaner future.  Beneficial Electrification is not just about changing energy sources but also about enhancing efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
    The goal of Beneficial Electrification is to increase the availability of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and hydroelectric power.  The number one goal seems to be to provide power to the grid using these types of renewables to cut greenhouse gas emissions.  For instance, electric vehicles (EVs) produce less emissions than gasoline powered vehicles.  Similarly, electric heat pumps for home heating and cooling can be more efficient than traditional oil or natural gas systems, especially when powered by renewable electricity.
    The environmental benefits can be substantial as the electric grid becomes greener and the reduction of carbon emission increases.
    In addition to the environmental gains, beneficial electrification may also have economic advantages. Many jobs have been created by the growing demand for renewable energy infrastructure, EVs and energy efficient appliances.  
    However, as with any type of change, Beneficial Electrification has downsides as well.  As we all know in the energy business, our main goal is to provide reliable, affordable electricity.  The cost of adding renewable energy to the electrical grid is substantial. However, we are told that renewable energy is still a cheaper form of energy than fossil fuels.  Will that still be the case when the government stops offering incentives through avenues such as tax credits, rebates and grants?
    Much consideration needs to be given to the environment in which the EV or any other type of renewable will be used.  Many ranchers have installed solar panels to help provide water to their stock wells.  This is a good way to ensure your cattle do not go without water because the wind isn’t blowing, and the windmill isn’t pumping.  However, what happens when the sun doesn’t shine?  There have been many days where the solar unit quit working because of cloudy conditions and the tank went dry.  That is where reliability is an issue, when the wind doesn’t blow, and the sun doesn’t shine, what happens then?  
    Beneficial Electrification can be an asset and can help slow global warming; however, a commonsense approach needs to be in the forefront of everyone’s minds.  We can work together towards a cleaner future while providing reliable, affordable electricity to everyone in the present.