ACEEE | American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
May 4, 2016
Comparative Energy Use of Residential Furnaces and Heat Pumps
This paper explores the question of whether we should be encouraging or discouraging natural gas use in residential space-heating and water-heating applications based on relative source energy use….
Comparative Energy Use of Residential Furnaces and Heat Pumps
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This paper explores the question of whether we should be encouraging or discouraging natural gas use in residential space-heating and water-heating applications based on relative source energy use. Our analysis finds that electric heat pumps generally use less energy in warm states and have moderately positive economics in these states if a heat pump can replace both the furnace and a central air conditioner. Moderately cold states can save energy if electricity comes from the highest-efficiency power plants, but life cycle costs for gas furnaces in existing homes will be lower than for heat pumps. In cold states, further development of cold-temperature electric heat pumps and gas-fired heat pumps will be useful.
Near-Term Pathways to Reduce Emissions from Ethane Crackers
Informed by interviews with over 40 experts across ethylene operators, engineering companies, national labs, benchmarking firms, and more, this paper conveys key aspects about what is actionable, where improvements are needed, and the paths that should be pursued to advance technologies that will meet evolving customer demands, address competition, and significantly lower the environmental impact of ethylene production.
Energy Efficiency Programs for Large Savings in the Next Decade
Expanded utility-funded energy efficiency programs can significantly slow rising electricity demand and reduce electricity bills; this report explains how.
Mass Save: Reducing Energy Imports, Enriching Massachusetts Communities
The commonwealth spends almost $11 billion a year buying energy from out of state. Mass Save lowers bills and keeps money at home.
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