Electricity Versus Gas

There are really only two common options for energy in today's homes; natural gas and electricity. Several factors contributed to our decision to standardize on electric appliances as opposed to gas. Arguments exist supporting both fuel types as being more environmentally friendly, however we believe the future will increasingly favor electricity as a means of tapping renewable sources. Even now, gas is almost entirely fossil-based. Electricity, on the other hand, already has several renewable technologies employed.

This is why homes that are "off grid" are largely electric. The technology exists for on-site generation of electricity in sufficient quantities to make it possible for a home’s production to exceed its consumption. Similar technology for natural gas is decades away. As the requirements approaching "net zero" or "zero carbon" homes are implemented over the next 20 years, we think homes will be forced to utilize electric fuel from renewable sources at ever increasing rates. This part of the country already has abundant, cheap, relatively clean electrical power generation. Building our homes with this in mind will put our customers in a better position to take advantage of future technological advances.

Electricity is universally consumed and unmatched in its capacity to fulfill all the energy demands of the house: heating, cooling, lights, cooking, and electronics - whereas, a home with a gas furnace will still need to have electricity to run the blower. Being entirely electric improves efficiency because we deal with fewer utility companies and our customers will have the convenience of fewer bills each month. Additionally we can eliminate the minimum meter rental charge that gas companies apply to each home whether or not any gas is used in a month. This charge is typically around $13 per month for an average household. Selecting the 100% renewable energy option through Portland General Electric will add $9 to the average household electricity bill.

Some customers may insist that they prefer gas appliances, and it will be simple to accommodate them – at an environmental cost. But to set a standard for a high performing home, all electric is simply better.

Loren Hanson - Miranda Homes