We’re all in favor of combatting climate change. And New Jersey’s Energy Master Plan to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050 is admirable. The problem is, the goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making everyone convert their homes and businesses to electric-powered heating systems is seriously misguided.
You see, electricity isn’t as clean as it’s made out to be. Proponents of electricity always point out that it has “zero” emissions. But the fact is, the generation of electricity is the second-largest creator of greenhouse gases in the United States. That’s because most of our electricity supply is generated by coal-fired power plants. Only the transportation sector creates more greenhouse gases. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration more than 63% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, mostly coal and natural gas.
Until we can truly rely on renewable sources of electricity, such as solar and wind, we need to use a mix of the greenest options available.
Here are three big reasons why the smart solution is a balanced solution:
Why switch to a less efficient heating fuel when there are safe and clean-burning fuels to help keep your home and family comfortable, even on the coldest nights?
Heating oil generates a very high number of BTUs of heat energy per gallon, so it will warm your home reliably—and more evenly. Modern, efficient heating-oil systems in well-insulated homes can help homeowners achieve the same amount of warmth while using much less fuel!
What’s more, the state’s plan would require whole-house conversions to electric heat, which will cost most New Jersey families $20,000 or more.
One of the biggest changes in heating oil in recent years has been the development of ultra-low sulfur heating oil that’s blended with biofuels. The result is a cleaner-burning heating fuel that emits up to 80% less sulfur dioxide as well as 20% less carbon dioxide than traditional heating oils. Fewer greenhouse gases mean cleaner air and a more sustainable future for everyone!
More good news: You don’t have to replace, alter, or add to your home’s heating system to use Bioheat fuel. It works like traditional heating oil but provides many more benefits. Because Bioheat fuel burns cleaner, it leaves fewer deposits in your heating system, which reduces wear on parts and saves you costs on repairs. When your heating system runs more efficiently, it will save you money on energy costs. Best of all, every gallon of heating oil JW Pierson delivers is clean-burning biofuel.
Making the switch to all-electric will put a serious strain on New Jersey’s already strained electric grid. Increased demand during an extreme cold will lead to higher prices and more outages.
If you agree that this is the wrong way to reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change, tell your legislators to oppose carbon taxes.
When it comes to smart solutions to your energy needs, trust JW Pierson for clean-burning, energy- and cost-efficient biofuel. Become a customer today and experience the difference we can make for your northern New Jersey home or business!