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What’s the All-Electric Trend in Sustainable Building About?

Industry professionals and community members are likely familiar with the term “building electrification”, a growing trend that plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable infrastructure and green building practices. By transitioning buildings to all-electric systems, this shift is helping to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support environmentally-friendly architecture.

But what does building electrification mean for the workforce and residents of the Pacific Northwest? In this article, we’ll dive into the impacts and opportunities this trend presents for our region’s economy, job market, and communities. 

 

4 Benefits of Building Electrification

What is Building Electrification? 

When broken down to basics, building electrification is the process of replacing higher-energy-consuming appliances—such as propane, gas, or fuel oil—with energy-efficient electrical options. 

What are the Top Appliances Ready for Electrical Innovation? 

Whether in a commercial or residential building, many appliances can be easily replaced with electrical counterparts.

  • Water Heaters
  • HVAC Equipment 
  • Stoves
  • Heat pumps

Why the Shift to Building Electrification Matters 

Building operations contribute to 31% of energy-related carbon emissions. Switching to cleaner energy via electricity can go a long way toward promoting decarbonization. Decarbonizing buildings by utilizing electricity has many benefits, from personal safety to energy savings. 

  • Healthy Environments: Gas appliances can emit harmful air pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and benzene. In fact, these levels in residences have been attributed to 13% of all childhood asthma. Since gas appliances vent outdoors, air quality outside is affected. Switching to electric and renewable resources can provide healthier air for everyone.
  • Reduced Climate Impact: Total carbon emissions from fossil fuels rose again in 2023, reaching 36.8 billion metric tons. Carbon dioxide is correlated with increasing global warming concerns. Mitigating reliance on fossil fuel-based energy goes a long way toward preventing adverse environmental effects. 
  • Energy Cost Savings: Appliances that run on electricity, like heat pumps, are more energy efficient, reducing energy costs.

Building electrification promotes sustainability because electric appliances don’t produce direct combustion emissions. Plus, these appliances can be integrated into renewable energy resources, reducing indirect greenhouse gas emissions. 

What is Power Over Ethernet?Power over Ethernet (PoE) delivers data and power through a single cable.

One emerging electrification technology is “power over ethernet (PoE).” PoE allows data and power supply connections to be delivered via a single, dedicated cable. It can eliminate the need for separate power supplies, additional outlets, and cord clutter. PoE is an exceptional and environmentally friendly option because buildings can often use their existing network cables, and new cables are quick and easy to install. 

How Can PoE Benefit Sustainable Building Initiatives? 

PoE allows buildings to connect devices to networks and simultaneously power them. This proves especially beneficial in powering day-to-day devices, including: 

Integrating PoE into buildings’ infrastructure means fewer carbon emissions and next-level energy efficiency. For example, using PoE tech is transforming a 1930s building into a green-focused hotel. The Sinclair in Forth Worth, Texas can power over 2,000 lights and other amenities while reducing energy consumption by 30% to 40%!

How Electrical Professionals Drive Innovative Trends in the Pacific Northwest

Across the region, buildings are turning to sustainable architecture practices, and the electrical sector is helping meet those goals. 

Washington State is leading the nation in replacing gas devices with electrical alternatives, creating the path toward building electrification. In Oregon, a massive, all-electric mixed-use building is slated to be completed in 2024. It will offer EV charging parking spaces and boast 70% more energy efficiency than other buildings in the area. 

Modern sustainability technologies are revolutionizing the electrical industry. Electrical professionals will be needed to install and maintain complex systems, assist in energy management solutions, and keep up with evolving demands. 

Discover the NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership

For more than 100 years, NECA and IBEW Local 48 have been integral to the development of Oregon and Southwest Washington’s electrical landscape. Together, they have shaped the region’s electrical infrastructure and led the way in industry innovation. Through this powerful partnership, members benefit from ongoing education, specialized training, valuable industry resources, and more.

Interested in learning more about membership opportunities? Explore how membership can help advance your career and connect you to a legacy of excellence.

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Collage of images including desert, hurricane, and dam.

Powering Through Climate Change: What It Means for the Energy Sector

According to recent reports, October 2024’s global temperature was the second highest in 175 years, and June of the same year was the highest recorded since 1850. With statistics like these, it’s no wonder that the public is working towards reducing the adverse effects of climate change. 

Resolving climate change issues presents groundbreaking opportunities for the energy sector, in particular. As the world shifts towards cleaner energy solutions, cutting-edge technology will be at the forefront of change. Renewable energy integration, hydropower, and more will require electrical experts to mitigate climate change through decarbonization.

Climate Change Statistics Over Time

Climate change has been steadily growing globally since 1850. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have increased by 50% since 1850. As a result, temperatures have risen 2 to 3 degrees since 1900, and regions across the globe are experiencing more extreme weather events. 

The EPA has identified both natural Earth processes and human activities as factors contributing to higher greenhouse gas levels. However, human activities have had a much greater impact on climate change. Despite this, experts in the energy sector are positioned to play a key role in addressing the issue.

Focusing on renewable energy sources and committing to efficiency strategies now can reduce adverse effects later. According to the United Nations Climate Action information, cutting emissions in half by 2030 and entirely by 2050 will help mitigate the detrimental impacts of climate change. 

The energy sector has been driving sustainable progress and innovation through leveraging renewable energy integration, harnessing electric-based technology, and adapting to the ever-changing energy landscape. 

3 Ways the Energy Sector Promotes DecarbonizationGreener energy retrofits in commercial buildings can cut energy use by 40%.

Whether you are in the energy profession or curious about decarbonization trends,  we outline the top three modifications pushing the industry forward.

1) Renewable Energy Options for Buildings

The electrical industry is well-versed in designing and installing renewable energy systems. Solar panels, EV charging stations, and wind turbine energy solutions are becoming commonplace across the U.S. Electrical professionals will utilize their expertise to bolster renewable infrastructure by adopting renewable energy grid integration. Comprehensive retrofits of commercial buildings with greener energy systems can reduce energy consumption by 40%.

2) Harnessing Hydropower 

Climate change is driving clean hydrogen innovation. There are 281 hydroelectric dams in the Columbia River Basin, providing over 50% of the region’s energy. However, increased precipitation in the Pacific Northwest over the next few decades will allow for more hydroelectric generation and less reliance on carbon-based energy sources. Electrical professionals will be vital in efficient energy production, maintenance, and troubleshooting as demand and energy output grow. 

The Columbia River Basin has over 281 hydroelectric dams, supplying over 50% of the region's energy.

3) Microgrid Technology

Microgrids are energy-efficient systems that deliver reliable and renewable energy to larger power grids. They support decarbonization efforts, are low-cost to install, and can adjust to energy demands over time.  As microgrids expand, skilled contractors and electricians will be necessary to drive innovation.

Exciting Outlook for Electrical Professionals: Growth & Opportunities Ahead

The electrical industry is on track for remarkable growth, with national employment projected to increase by 6% annually through 2032. This surge in demand offers ample opportunities for current electricians to advance their careers and provides an excellent entry point for those considering the field. 

Closer to home, the Pacific Northwest is experiencing even more promising statistics. In Oregon, employment in the electrical sector is anticipated to grow by 16% by 2030, while Washington is projected to see an 18% increase. Whether you’re an experienced professional or exploring a career change, the future looks bright for electrical workers in the region.

The NECA/IBEW Partnership: Energizing the Future of the Pacific Northwest

For over a century, NECA and IBEW Local 48 members have been at the heart of powering Oregon and Southwest Washington. Through this enduring partnership, we’ve not only built the region’s electrical infrastructure but are also paving the way toward a sustainable energy future.

By joining our community of skilled professionals, you become part of a legacy of excellence, innovation, and continuous growth. Together, we’re shaping a brighter, more efficient future for the Pacific Northwest, driven by craftsmanship, leadership, and a commitment to progress. Get details about membership, benefits, and more.

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