Electrify Home Appliances and Improve Efficiency, Says Arcata

Press release from the City of Arcata:

The City of Arcata Environmental Services Department is encouraging residents to save energy and money while reducing their environmental impact by switching home heating systems and appliances to electric and to review their PG&E baseline allotment.

Electric technologies, such as heat pump space heating and water heaters, induction stoves, electric appliance, and electric vehicles are cleaner, safer and more energy-efficient than natural gas. Natural gas technology comes with significant environmental impacts like emissions, harmful impacts of extraction and the danger of flammability and carbon monoxide. Local rebates and incentives are available through Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), which offers financial assistance for qualifying electric appliances, heating systems and EV chargers. Residents can explore current programs at redwoodenergy.org/programs-rebates/rebates-incentives/.

Residents who have already installed, or are planning to install, electric heating systems, electric appliances or charge their electric vehicles at home should ensure their PG&E rates and baseline allowance reflect their home’s needs. The baseline allowance is the amount of electricity a household can use at the lowest rate before higher prices apply. Homes that rely on electricity for heating and major appliances naturally use more electricity, particularly during colder months. PG&E provides higher baseline allowances for homes with electric heating; however, this adjustment is not made automatically. Residents can learn how to check or update their baseline allowance by visiting PG&E’s website and searching “baseline allowance” to ensure that electricity use is billed accurately and affordably. Customers can also call the customer service number listed on their bill.

By upgrading to electric systems and ensuring their utility accounts are up to date, Arcata residents can reduce energy costs, enhance home safety and support a cleaner, more resilient local energy system.

While electric appliances are cleaner and more efficient, bill impacts will vary depending on the relative costs of natural gas and electricity, as well as a resident’s usage patterns. In some circumstances, customers have experienced higher overall bills after electrifying. Ensuring the proper baseline allowance can help control costs.

Local RCEA staff are always happy to assist with any questions about energy bills, energy efficiency programs and electricity supply; contact RCEA by emailing [email protected], calling (707) 269-1700, or visiting redwoodenergy.org. For more information about energy efficiency and electrification programs at the City, visit cityofarcata.org/231/Energy-Efficiency-Renewables or contact the Environmental Services Department.