In this installment of our “Empowering Electrification” series, we explore how businesses can transition to cleaner energy by electrifying their operations. From reducing operating expenses to improving indoor air quality, electrification offers numerous benefits for both your business and the environment.
As California continues to focus on combatting climate change, businesses play an important role in eliminating fossil fuels. One of the most effective ways to do this is to electrify your operations by switching from gas to electric appliances. Electrifying your operations can cut emissions and save you money. As more clean energy sources are added to the grid, electrifying the building sector is a critical way to reduce emissions.
The good news is that making this transition can be simpler than you think, and there are programs at MCE to help you along the way.
Why Electrification Matters
Commercial buildings in the U.S. are responsible for about 13% of greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to the energy used for heating, cooling, lighting, and equipment. Electrifying these systems in commercial buildings is an important step for businesses looking to save on operational costs while supporting California’s climate goals to reach 100% renewable and zero carbon electricity by 2045.
Additionally, energy use in buildings contributes to 25% of California’s air pollution. Electrifying commercial buildings not only reduces emissions but also improves indoor air quality, creating healthier environments for employees and customers alike.
Examples of Electrification
Electrification helps businesses reduce emissions by decreasing their reliance on fossil fuels. By transitioning from natural gas to electricity and adopting energy-efficient electric appliances—like heat pumps and induction cooktops—businesses can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. These changes also improve indoor air quality and support the green energy economy.
Many electric systems are also more efficient and reliable than their fossil fuel counterparts, which means you can save on energy and maintenance costs over time. That’s why we’re dedicated to offering a simple and cost competitive path to clean energy. With MCE’s Light Green service, businesses can access 60% renewable energy at stable, competitive rates.
Programs to Support You
MCE’s Energy Management programs are designed to help your business start saving energy today and continue reducing emissions over time. These programs pair eligible businesses with an energy coach who can identify opportunities to optimize energy performance, secure rebates and incentives, and lower energy bills—all while supporting your organization’s sustainability goals.
To make electrification more accessible, MCE offers cash incentives to help offset the costs of upgrading to cleaner technologies to eligible businesses. By investing in energy upgrades, businesses can reduce operating costs while contributing to a cleaner environment.
For example, a local school district in MCE’s service area partnered with us to replace outdated natural gas HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems with new electric heat pumps at four of their schools. With the switch to more energy-efficient equipment, this MCE customer received an incentive of over $7,000 and cut their energy bills by an estimated $11,000 annually—significantly lowering both costs and their carbon footprint. It’s a powerful example of how electrification can be a win-win for your business and the planet.
See If You Qualify
Ready to make your business more sustainable? MCE is here to help. Through our Energy Management programs, you can take meaningful steps toward reducing emissions, lowering energy costs, and improving efficiency.
Explore how MCE’s Energy Management programs can help your business cut costs and emissions. Let’s work together for a cleaner, more sustainable California.
