Home Energy Resources

Economics and Emissions

There are a number of “cost” components to consider when evaluating a switch from natural gas to electric appliances and systems: purchase price, operating costs, warmth for the money, and greenhouse gas emissions.

The High Performance All-Electric Home

Reducing our use of “natural” gas is the best strategy to quickly reduce our climate impact. Fortunately, we have healthier, cost-effective alternatives. Ultra high efficiency electric technologies + abundant clean energy in our local grid combine to create the high-performance home of the future TODAY.

Download our Ashland flyer, “The High-Performance All-Electric Home” (pdf) — developed using Ashland’s utility rates and carbon-intensity rates for Ashland Electric in partnership with ElectrifyNow.net.

*Updated 7/29/2022.

All Electric Home
The 4 largest sources of emissions in your life

The 4 largest sources of carbon emissions in your life: Electricity 0.2 – 0.4 Tons. Car 4 – 8 Tons. Furnace 4 – 8 Tons. Water Heater 1 – 3 Tons. The furnace and car are the largest.

Lowest Carbon Emissions

Old gas furnaces have the highest carbon emissions, while heat pumps have the lowest emissions and are the most energy efficient.

More Warmth for the Money

Heat pumps offer more warmth for the money.

Water Heating Costs

Electric water heat pumps cost the least.

Lowest Carbon Emissions

The heat pump has the lowest carbon emissions — 0.03 tons whereas the gas furnace has the highest.

Electric Car Batteries

Electric cars produce a tiny fraction of the emissions of a gas car, over the life cycle of the car.

Did You Know?

A gas furnace produces more pollution than almost anything else we use —  an estimated 4-8 tons of carbon emissions per year. That’s equivalent to a year of driving a gas-burning car!

City of Ashland electrification programs and incentives

Ashland offers money back when purchasing these items for your home. Visit their website to learn about eligibility requirements and apply.

  • Home Energy Review
  • Heating & Cooling
  • Heat Pump Water Heater
  • Induction Cooktop/Range
  • Weatherization (windows and insulation)
  • Washer & Dryer
  • Smart Thermostat

Savings calculator

How much will you save? There are many savings programs for energy-efficient appliances and upgrades. To estimate your savings, check out this calculator from the Energy Hub for Incentive Programs and Projects in Oregon.

Just enter your zip code and household info to see savings on electric appliance upgrades, energy efficiency, and renewable energy projects.

Ashland Home Energy Articles

Check out home energy and electrification articles and actionable strategies that highlight our community’s efforts toward a sustainable future.

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