How Do I Electrify My Operation?
THE PROBLEM
How do I electrify my operation?
Electrifying your operations requires converting fossil fueled heating processes to electricity. This conversion ranges from very simple, to extremely complex and expensive, depending on the temperatures required.
The Big Problem
Electrifying your operation will result in lower overall energy consumption since electric system are more efficient than their fossil counterparts. The problem (and the major expense) is that electrification is not just about efficiency and decarbonization, but a shift in the energy supply system: The energy previously provided by the natural gas pipeline must now be added to the electric service. For many companies, electrifying a facility can easily double, triple, or even quadruple electricity demand.
A facility’s electricity service cannot easily or inexpensively expand by this amount. More problematic is that the utility may not be able to supply the necessary electricity without significant upgrades and a significant amount of time. Some utilities require up to three years to accommodate an electrification upgrade.
If you are planning on electrification, the first step is to start conversations with your utility.