Government policies banning natural gas and propane are in full swing. New York has passed a law prohibiting the use of fossil fuels in new buildings, and outlawed propane heating and natural gas-powered stoves and furnaces in favor of electric equipment. Similar city-level regulations are spreading in California, too.

Whether you live in these states or just want to reduce your environmental impact, you may be wondering how to switch from gas-powered appliances to electric in your home. Read on to learn about the benefits and where you can start.

What’s Worse for the Environment — Gas or Electricity?

Gas is worse for the environment when the energy source used to generate electricity is clean. Natural gas is greener than coal and oil because it burns cleaner. Yet, it still contributes to climate change by emitting greenhouse gases — one of which is methane, which traps 28 times more heat than carbon dioxide. It also releases toxic air pollutants, such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.

As a fossil fuel, natural gas is a nonrenewable resource and causes ecological damage when extracted. On the other hand, powering your home purely with electricity can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and indoor air pollution.

In 2022, fossil fuels accounted for about 60% of electricity produced in the United States. The country’s energy mix will become more sustainable in the coming years because of the government’s push to make clean hydrogen local. However, that doesn’t mean you must wait until renewables power most of the nation’s electrical grid.

Installing solar panels lets you generate clean electricity for free, rely less on the power grid or be entirely energy self-sufficient. The cost of residential solar systems in the U.S. more than halved from 2010 to 2022. Using sunlight to power your home is cheaper than ever.

Is Switching From Gas to Electric Worth It?

Switching from gas to electric at home is worth it for various reasons. From a health point of view, swapping your stove, oven, clothes dryer, space heating equipment — like a furnace or a boiler — water heater, grill, fire pit, or generator running on natural gas or propane is worth the expense to rid your home of silently harmful pollutants.

From an environmental standpoint, going electric will let you enjoy modern conveniences more sustainably. If you already have a solar system capable of powering your house’s energy needs, using only electric appliances is a step toward climate action.

If your solar panels haven’t been able to produce sufficient power or you haven’t equipped your home with them yet, going electric will still be a win for the environment. You’ll help reduce the demand for natural gas and crude oil. The more sustainable the American energy mix becomes, the more environmentally beneficial your decision will be.

How to Switch From Gas to Electric

Switching from gas to electric is simple but challenging. Follow these three tips to get started.

1. Identify All Electrifiable Appliances

Jot down all your natural gas and propane appliances. Also, note their electric replacements' purchase and installation costs. Most homeowners can’t swap their machines in one fell swoop, so be strategic. Focus on the ones indoors — especially in air-conditioned areas — to reap the health and safety benefits immediately while managing your budget.

Prioritize natural gas and propane appliances nearing the end of their life spans, too. Replacing them when they break can make the switch more expensive. Planning the swap while they’re still operational gives you more time to consider your options.

2. Think About Space

Some electric appliances are bulkier than their gas counterparts. Expect only a few replacements to fit into the areas your current machines occupy.

Measure the dimensions of your prospective electric appliances to ensure you have adequate real estate for them. For example, only some properties can accommodate geothermal wells to heat and cool rooms efficiently and cleanly. Look for technologies that suit your home.

3. Evaluate Your Electrical System

More electric appliances drive up amperage at home, which your present electrical infrastructure may be unfit to deliver. Have experienced electricians assess your system to get estimates. They can determine what upgrades are necessary to meet the additional current demand.

Are There Financial Incentives to Switch From Gas to Electric?

Yes, there are financial incentives for sustainability-conscious individuals like you to switch from gas to electric appliances. Utilities and governments — local, state and federal — offer them, so their availability varies by location. Programs like ElectrifyNYC in New York and tools like The Switch is On extend resources to help you find and apply for the home improvement grants, loans, and rebates you qualify for.

The Multifamily Energy Savings Program offers a rebate of $350 per ton on heat pumps for eligible Pacific Gas and Electric Company customers in northern and central California. The caveat is you may have to use a specific local contractor to benefit from a particular financial incentive.

Amp Up Your Sustainable Lifestyle

Switching from gas to electric appliances is a bold commitment. It can also be a significant expense, but making the change is worth it on many levels. Leverage rebates to minimize your upfront costs.