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. 

 

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?

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: 

• Security cameras
• IP phones
• PA systems
• Point of sale terminals
• Wireless access points
• LED lighting
• Virtual desktop infrastructure 

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.

At Mill Plain Electric, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a core value that drives everything they do. Leading the charge in safety is Steve Huson, the company’s Safety Coordinator. A true servant leader, Steve’s approach to safety is simple but powerful: take it “the last 18 inches”—from the head to the heart. His goal is clear: to get everyone home safe, healthy, and happy every day. 

With over 22 years of experience in the military, including as a maintenance test pilot, along with expertise in heavy equipment operation, engineering, construction, and machining, Steve brings a well-rounded and disciplined perspective to his role. He is committed to continuous improvement, striving every day to make today better than yesterday for his family, his co-workers, and his friends.

Join us as we dive into Steve’s journey, where his military experience and electrical expertise seamlessly intersect. His ability to navigate complex situations, lead teams, and ensure the safety of everyone on the job site is deeply rooted in his time in the military, where attention to detail and quick decision-making were paramount. Steve’s transition from military service to the electrical trades showcases how these two worlds complement each other, shaping his approach to leadership and safety in the workplace. 

How long have you been a member of IBEW Local 48?

I’ve been a member for about 19 years now. I’ve been an electrician for 24, but I joined the IBEW when I decided to make the switch. Before that, I was working as a machinist at Columbia Engineering Works. I remember watching the electricians on the job, thinking, ‘Those guys are making a lot more money than I am and they don’t seem to be working as hard!’ One of the machinists I worked with ended up applying to the union, and when he came back and told me about it, I thought, ‘Okay, it’s my turn!’ So, I went ahead and applied myself.

Can you tell us about your role in the military? What was your MOS?

I served for 22 years in the Oregon Army National Guard, beginning at the age of 23. My military experience shaped who I am today and played a big role in preparing me for leadership roles in the civilian workforce.

I started my career with the Corps of Engineers, where I spent the first 10 years working as an Electrician (21R). This role involved maintaining electrical systems and providing support for various construction projects. After a few years, I transitioned into a position as a Construction Supervisor (21H), overseeing construction operations and ensuring that everything ran smoothly. I gained a lot of hands-on experience during these years, learning the ins and outs of project management and the importance of teamwork and precision in everything we did.

After my time in the Corps of Engineers, I spent the last 12 years of my military career with the C 7-158th Medical Evacuation (MEDEVA) unit out of Salem, Oregon. As a MEDEVAC pilot in command and maintenance test pilot (153MG), my primary role was to support medical evacuations, ensuring that the unit’s aircraft were operational and safe for use. It was a high-pressure environment, and my job required quick thinking and precise decision-making, especially in critical situations. I loved the challenge, and the responsibility of knowing lives could depend on the work I was doing.

“General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who led the Allied Forces in Europe during World War II, famously said, “In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.”

Looking back, I can see how my military experiences helped me develop the skills that would later make me a better leader in the civilian workforce. Whether managing complex projects, working with diverse teams, or making tough decisions under pressure, the leadership lessons I learned in the Oregon Army National Guard were invaluable in preparing me for the challenges I faced in the civilian world.

Could you share your deployment timeline and how it overlapped with your time as an IBEW member?

My first deployment was from 2003 to 2004, when I spent 14 months in Iraq with the engineers. At that time, I was an electrician. My second deployment was from 2013 to 2014 in Kosovo. And my third was from 2017 to 2018 in Syria.

How does IBEW accommodate members who are deployed?

When you get deployed, you go on leave, but you still accrue points for retirement. So, when you come back, you pick up right where you left off—you get all your pay, raises, and everything that happened while you were gone. It’s a great system that makes the transition back pretty seamless.

Did being an IBEW member influence your service or vice versa?

It really worked both ways. I went into the military as an electrician, which made it easier to get into the apprenticeship when I came back. I think the IBEW looks at the military and sees that we already have the discipline to show up on time and we know what hard work looks like.

In the military, I was able to do a lot of electrical work. I did electrical work in Germany for a few weeks, then in Kosovo, I handled electrical needs for our unit. Even in Iraq, I was involved with electrical projects. In my last, I even had the chance to volunteer some of my off time to help an orphanage with their electrical work. That was a pretty cool experience.

I also want to highlight how supportive IBEW was while I was deployed. They reached out and made the transition in and out super easy. They were really flexible with the demands that the military places on service members, and that made all the difference.

“I would say the biggest lesson that I learned in the military that has helped me in the IBEW is trusting other people to do what they’re supposed to do and being open to other ideas that may be very different than anything I ever thought – but often times, even better.”

What are your responsibilities as a Safety Coordinator?

As a Safety Coordinator, my job is to assess the jobs we’re doing, the locations, and the hazards associated with each task. My first goal is always to eliminate the hazard if possible. If I can’t eliminate it, then I look at ways to substitute the methods or equipment we’re using. We put policies in place to help mitigate risks, and if the policies alone aren’t enough, we implement additional safety measures, like PPE.

My focus is on taking safety the last 18 inches—because most people in the industry already know the right thing to do. That last 18 inches is the difference between knowing and doing. If safety isn’t a core value or priority, it’s easy to cut corners, and that’s when accidents happen. My role is to make sure safety isn’t just a rule but a mindset, a core value.

Another part of my role is training. I handle all of our new hire training and situational awareness training. I pull a lot from my military experience because, to me, a construction site is somewhat like a combat zone—just without the guns. There are things on the job that can kill you quickly, and being aware of your surroundings is paramount. 

“The military taught me to make that awareness second nature, and I’m here to pass that on to the crew. I want to help everyone who comes in and out of the site understand what they need to do to stay safe and be successful.”

What mindset or values from your military experience do you bring to your work in the electrical field?

One story that really stands out for me was when I was a very young soldier, only a couple of years into the service. I was heading to annual training when my platoon sergeant—an E6—called me up and said, ‘Hey, by the way, I’m not going to be there. You’re in charge.’ I was both irritated and humbled at the same time. When I arrived, I met with the commander and the first sergeant, and they just said, ‘Yep, this is all you.’

At first, I was confused because I wasn’t the highest-ranking person there, and I definitely hadn’t been in the longest. But over the course of the week, they kept adding more and more responsibility. They handed me a set of plans for a big project—a wooden bridge through the wetlands in Seaside, with an observation deck on the dunes. It was a cool project, but they also gave me a material list and said, ‘We need this, we need that.’ And I thought, ‘Okay, I’ve got this.’

I stayed up until 3 a.m. every night trying to get everything figured out, knowing first formation was at 5:30 a.m. The next day, they’d add more to my plate, and I kept pushing through, thinking I could handle it. After four days, I finally walked into the commander’s office, threw my Kevlar down on the desk, and said, ‘This is BS—there’s no way anyone can do all of this.’

The commander and the first sergeant just smiled at each other. Then the commander said, ‘Well, it took you a little longer than we expected, but we were waiting for you to figure that out.’ He went on to say, ‘You have to learn to delegate. You can’t do it all yourself. You need to trust your team to take some of the tasks off your plate.”

That moment was a turning point for me. I realized that leadership wasn’t about doing it all yourself—it was about trusting your team, understanding the bigger picture, and knowing how to communicate that vision clearly. I learned that to be an effective leader, you need to delegate, share responsibility, and help your team see how their individual contributions fit into the larger mission. A good leader encourages and empowers others and tries to leave those they interact with better equipped for life’s challenges. This was a lesson I carried with me through the rest of my military career and into my civilian life.

During his time with the Oregon Air National Guard in 2018, Steve Huson participated in a rescue operation to save Sarah Rask, who had fallen and injured herself on Broken Top Mountain in central Oregon. The Blackhawk helicopter crew lifted her to safety.

Want to share any times you had to really think outside the box on a job?

Thinking outside the box is one of my favorite things. OSHA sets minimum standards, but those are based on an ideal world—and we don’t live in an ideal world. If I can prove that what we’re doing is just as safe, or even safer, than what the regulation says, then I’m going to make it work. 

One of my favorite projects was reworking the Lewis and Clark Bridge near Longview. We had to come up with a system to keep the crew safe while working several hundred feet above the water. We made sure there was a rescue boat on standby, provided self-inflating life jackets, and implemented safety measures to protect them if they fell into the water. We also developed a way for them to safely work outside the guardrails to replace piping. It was all about creating a system that kept the team safe while getting the job done efficiently.

How do you approach safety in your work and within the industry?

At Mill Plain, safety is like a core value. We’re all working together, and the goal is always to keep each other safe. It’s not about keeping secrets or trying to outdo each other with ‘cool’ new safety tricks—safety isn’t competitive. If someone finds something that makes the job safer, we share that information with the whole team, and with the industry.

It’s the same within the NECA group I belong to as well. We meet every month to share tips and lessons learned. We talk about the struggles we’re having and find ways to improve. Safety is something we all need to be invested in because, while one person may work with us on a job, they may move on to another contractor when the job is done. If we all take the time to train everyone and make safety a top priority, it benefits everyone in the long run. We’re all connected in that way, and it’s about sharing knowledge to keep each other safe, no matter where we are or who we work for.

About Steve Huson

Beyond his impressive professional experience, Steve is also a proud father of five children, embodying the values of leadership, responsibility, and care both at work and at home. He volunteers for the NECA-IBEW ambassador outreach program and works with pre-K through 5th grade students at GSCC. His servant leadership style is about supporting others to ensure that everyone is safe and successful in their work.

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn. 

The NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership

The partnership between the Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA and IBEW Local 48 is driving the electrical industry forward with a strong commitment to integrity, quality, safety, and professional excellence. Together, we’re setting the standard for innovation and craftsmanship in every project. If you’re interested in learning more, visit our membership page.

Did you know that data centers are among the most energy-intensive buildings, using 10 to 50 times more energy per floor space than typical commercial offices? These facilities account for about 2% of the total U.S. electricity consumption. As the nation’s reliance on information technology increases, energy use in data centers and servers is projected to rise. Fortunately, there are numerous opportunities to reduce energy consumption in data centers.

Over the past decade, data center development has boomed with a global server growth of 674%. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve seen rapid expansion in data center infrastructure, culminating in 185 centers and more on the way.

With all this recent growth maximizing electrical efficiency is one key way to maintain top performance. 

Data Center Energy Consumption & Efficiency 

Data centers are expected to operate 24/7 and produce a high energy output. This high availability can lead to excessive energy usage and environmental impacts. In 2022, data centers consumed 1- 1.3% of worldwide energy demand. In the U.S., energy usage is expected to reach 35GW by 2023, nearly double the 2022 numbers. 

Data center owners and operators in the Pacific Northwest have opportunities to adopt energy-efficient plans to improve performance and reduce energy consumption.

7 Ways to Enhance Data Center Efficiency

Implementing energy-efficiency solutions can significantly lower operational expenses and environmental impact. If you’re seeking energy-saving upgrades for your existing data center these seven tips are essential starting points.

1) Optimize Cooling Systems 

Data centers have zero downtime and, as a result, need cooling systems to prevent overheating and maintain hardware integrity. Air-side economizers utilize cool outside air to maintain proper temperature, while water-side economizers rely on cooling towers and chilled water to keep equipment cool. 

According to EnergyStar, air-side economizers can save up to 60% on energy costs, and water-sized economizers can save up to 70%.

2) Use Energy Star-Rated Equipment 

Energy-efficient hardware can save up to 30% on utility costs, so upgrading to certified energy-saving equipment can reduce output. 

3) Rethink Hot & Cold Aisle Containment 

Arrange your server racks so that the fronts of the servers face each other to separate hot and cold air streams and improve cooling efficiency. Contain or enclose your server racks to prevent cold and hot air flow from intermingling. 

4) Disable Non-Working Servers 

According to Energy Star, 15% to 30% of the energy is still drawn even when not computing. Simply decommissioning these outdated servers can do wonders for energy reduction.

5) Turn to Renewable Energy

The Pacific Northwest has a wealth of renewable energy sources, including solar, wind turbines, and hydrogen, to help power data centers. Moreover, Washington and Oregon have tax and grant incentives for businesses implementing green tech, which means additional savings. 

6) Perform Routine Audits

As new technologies emerge and data centers expand, it’s essential to conduct energy audits to catch any inefficiencies immediately. Also, regular equipment maintenance keeps all your equipment performing at its best.

7) Hire Electrical Professionals

Data centers are often thought of in terms of IT management. However, the components themselves also exist in the realm of electricity. Hiring professional electricians to help install, check, and maintain equipment can ensure optimized efficiency and safety.

Hire a Local Electrician or Electrical Contractor Near You

The future of data centers is expected to grow and evolve. As an owner or operator, you want to ensure your equipment is energy-efficient and top-performing. Working with licensed and bonded electricians and contractors is paramount to staying up-to-date with tech and energy efficiency practices.  

If you need professionals in the Pacific Northwest trained in renewable resources and new technologies, the NECA–IBEW Local 48 partnership offers a list of expert electrical professionals for your business.

Find an electrical professional in your area.

Electricity is an essential part of our daily routines, powering everything from our homes and devices to our appliances and gadgets. However, it’s easy to overlook the potential issues that can arise when our electrical systems are not properly maintained.

Unchecked electrical problems cause $1.3 billion in property damage and are responsible for 32,000 home fires annually. Knowing signs of performance issues is critical to staying safe and protecting your residential investment. Here are five signs your electrical systems might need some TLC from a licensed professional. 

Stay Safe: Electrical Warning Signs to Be Aware Of 

Keep your home safe and avoid damage by looking out for these electrical issues.

1) Flickering Lights 

Flickering lights can be a nuisance but can also indicate loose wiring, damaged light fixtures, or circuit overload. Left unexamined, these potential problems can balloon into a serious problem. 

• Loose or Damaged Wires: Without a proper connection, loose or damaged wires can generate high amounts of heat within your walls. This can lead to melting or igniting insulation and other materials.
• Faulty Light Fixtures: Damaged fixtures can create short circuits, which can cause spark and fire risk.
• Overloaded Circuits: Overloaded circuits consume more current than their rating allows, increasing the chances of wiring ignition.

2) Outlets & Light Switches Hot to the Touch 

There is never any reason why an electrical outlet or light switch should be warm. If you notice any warmth emitting from either source, it’s time to call your contractor. Hot and discolored outlets often mean:

• Faulty wiring
• Poor connections
• Overloaded circuits
• Short circuits
• Loose or corroded wires
• Incorrect installation of devices
• Malfunctioning electrical components

Potential dangers include electrical shocks, damage to appliances, and fire risk.

3) Excessive Circuit Breaker Tripping 

It’s not uncommon to trip a circuit breaker occasionally. However, frequent tripping can be a sign of more serious electrical overloads or wiring issues. Repeatedly resetting a breaker and ignoring root causes could pose an overheating risk.

4) Bad Odors & Burning Smells

Faulty electrical systems have distinct odors. People describe it as burning rubber or plastic. If you detect foul odors and think they are coming from electrical systems, contact an electrician immediately to prevent major damage and fire hazards and ensure your home’s safety.

5) Outlets That Spark or Smoke

Sparks are a sure sign that something is amiss. If you plug an appliance or device into or from an outlet and see sparks or smoke, that’s a sure sign of an electrical hazard. Sparks are usually an indication of:

• Loose connections
• Damaged wiring
• Old or faulty components

Remember, where there’s smoke or sparks, there’s a potential for fire. It’s best to call your local electrical professional to repair or replace system parts.

What Do You Do if You Suspect an Electrical Issue?

When dealing with electrical systems, leaving things to chance is never a good idea. That’s why it’s in every homeowner’s best interest to call in the big guns: reputable contractors.  Professional electrical workers can help diagnose a variety of problems, including:

• Old or damaged wiring
• Lack of outlets
• Broken or malfunctioning Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
• Overloaded circuits

No matter the issue, they can help repair or replace system components, advise on home smart systems, recommend a maintenance schedule, and address any concerns.

Choose an Experienced Electrical Professional Near You

Looking for a local expert? Check out our comprehensive list of licensed and bonded electricians in your area. You’ll find a wide range of specialists with expertise in electrical repair and installation.

Today’s electricians are key players in modern building construction, designing and installing complex, energy-efficient systems by using cutting-edge technology. Electrical innovation is always fast-paced, and skilled electrical professionals will be an asset as it evolves. Stay on top of these emerging trends.

Electrical Innovation in Construction 

The electrification of everything has revolutionized the construction industry. Automation aids productivity, smart buildings improve efficiency, and advanced solar options promote sustainability. These four emerging technologies are expected to flourish in 2025 and beyond.

1) Smart Building Design

Smart buildings rely on advanced systems to enhance automation and improve performance and efficiency. Utilizing state-of-the-art sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, smart systems can connect wirelessly to appliances and networks. This level of automation can take the reins and control standard operations such as lighting, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and security.  

Smart building innovation brings enhanced occupant comfort, increased efficiency, and reduced energy costs to commercial buildings. These buildings are expected to save $18 billion in energy costs and 80 million tons of CO2. 

2) Advanced Energy Storage 

The rise of microgrid tech in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the country has opened the doors to sustainable and groundbreaking energy storage. Modern, battery-based electric storage systems (BESS) can store power over long periods of time and deliver energy on demand. This type of energy storage can help cover power outages, grow with energy demands, and integrate into renewable energy sources.  

3) Solar & Renewable Energy Solutions 

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIVP) is taking solar energy to new levels. BIVP tech seamlessly integrates solar power into the overall structure of the building, including roofs, windows, and exterior materials. Unlike typical rooftop solar panels, which are external components, BIVPs are designed to merge solar generation with a building’s structural elements. Making energy production an integral part of the building itself, this tech promises increased efficiency, lower installation costs, and aesthetics. 

4) Electric Construction Tools

With all the new electrical technology at the forefront of sustainability efforts, the construction industry is following suit. Due to fossil fuel use, construction has played a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions in the past. In fact, it represents 39% of global CO2 emissions related to energy. However, in recent years, more companies have been utilizing electric construction equipment. Excavators, wheel loaders, forklifts, and mining trucks are becoming electric. Green tech equipment promises a reduced carbon footprint, less noise pollution, and lower project costs.

What Pacific Northwest Electrical Professionals Need to Know About Emerging Trends 

Thanks to the CHIPS Act, futuristic infrastructure is coming to Oregon and Washington. As projects develop and grow, the electrical sector will need to be prepared to handle new tech. Also, as the industry changes, networking with other professionals will be a helpful resource.

The NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership Helps Grow the Pacific Northwest Electrical Industry 

The NECA/IBEW Local 48 partnership comes together to bolster the electrical industry sector. Members gain access to continuing education, hands-on-training, trending industry resources, and compliance support.  Discover more about membership opportunities.