Children born today are more likely than any generation before them to grow up into a world where the concept of burning fuel to undertake simple activities like heating a house or driving a car will seem dangerous, dirty, and almost unbelievable. They have a chance to be part of a net-zero future, and that future has already begun.
Today, for nearly everything that burns gas, there is an electric alternative that is more efficient, cleaner, and safer. The third annual Home Energy and EV Expo will bring a selection of these electrifying future-friendly options to the community on Saturday, May 23.
The free event — hosted by the City of Peterborough, the Electric Vehicle Society, For Our Grandchildren, and GreenUP — will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Activity Centre. Visitors can engage with local contractors and incentive program representatives and learn practical steps to electrify their lives, including the following.
The heat is on
Heating is the largest source of energy use in the average home, and many homes still heat by burning fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil, or propane. Cold-climate electric heat pumps are now widely available, however, and are 200 to 300 per cent efficient while providing even, comfortable heat, and super-efficient cooling. By choosing an electric backup, the need for a fuel-burning furnace can be completely eliminated, along with a utility bill. With rebates still available, this is an accessible change to make at home.
Get into hot water
Many homes still use fossil fuels to heat their water, whether with a tank or a tankless system. Electric heat pump water heaters are extremely efficient and, as a bonus, they serve as a built-in dehumidifier. While they do come at a higher upfront cost, they pay back in energy savings in just a few years. Rebates are also available, which make these an even more attractive option.
Cooking with(out) gas
Gas stoves have long been popular among those that love to cook, but with the advent of induction technology, electric stoves have become the most efficient option. Induction stoves offer precise temperature control and heat up very quickly. They are also far safer than gas stoves — once a pan is removed from the burner, it automatically turns off. The open flames of gas stoves contribute to poor air quality in homes, and they have been linked to higher rates of asthma. Rebates are also available for those replacing a less-efficient electric stove with induction.
(A change of) clothes dryer
Electric dryers are more common these days, but some homes do still have gas-powered dryers. for those interested in a change-up, a professional is required to make the switch, capping off the gas line and installing a 240 V outlet if one is not already available. Electric heat pump clothes dryers are also an option, which can use up to 50 per cent less electricity than a traditional electric dryer. Or there is always the most efficient option of all – hanging clothes out to dry!
Amped-up vehicles
Gas prices are on everyone’s mind these days. Electric vehicles (EVs) cost five to 10 times less than gas- or diesel-powered vehicles to drive the same distance, and they can conveniently be charged at home the majority of the time. Driving ranges continue to improve with many new EVs able to travel 500 kilometres or more on a single charge. The network of fast-charging stations is also growing rapidly, making electric road trips more than possible. New to the Home Energy and EV Expo this year, visitors can test drive an EV.
Electric bikes, or E-bikes, are another great transportation option, and can replace a car (or second car) for many families. With a variety of styles available, from simple bicycles with pedal assist, to family-carrying cargo bikes, to scooters, there’s something to suit everyone’s needs.
And since it’s May — the time of year to be Shifting Gears — don’t forget the traditional, human-powered bicycle: a simple and nearly free transportation option, with health benefits built in.
By the yard … equipment
Lawn mowers, leaf blowers, snow blowers, and trimmers are available in battery-powered or plug-in electric versions. These are quieter, produce far fewer lifetime emissions than their gas-powered counterparts, and eliminate the need to store gasoline.
Going solar
While going electric, why not generate some power with a rooftop solar system? Solar panels offer an opportunity to lock in electricity costs while insulating households from power outages by including a battery.
Visit the third annual Home Energy and EV Expo at the McDonnel Street Activity Centre (577 McDonnel St., Peterborough) on Saturday, May 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more at greenup.on.ca/event/3rd-annual-home-energy-and-ev-expo/.
GreenUP energy advisors offer services and guidance on new technologies, and incentive and financing programs available to make them more accessible.
For more information, visit greenup.on.ca/home-energy/.
