Programs that hasten the electrification are becoming a popular priority among utilities, whether for heating systems, cooking appliances, or even transportation. The thinking is that by converting areas of energy consumption where customers are burning fuels to electricity, which can be generated by cleaner sources, a net benefit will be gained in emissions reductions.

However, careful study is required for such programs because not all electrification measures will have a net beneficial impact on the environment, even if the electric equipment has higher efficiency. A main reason for this effect is that the energy mix making up the local grid needs to be taken into account, as a coal-heavy grid, for instance, may lead to electric equipment accounting for more emissions.