Growth of the gas system over the past 150 years often involved the addition of whole neighborhoods at a time. In the 1950s and 1960s, the conversion from manufactured "town gas" to natural gas required whole neighborhoods to have their equipment converted in just a few days. Is a similar approach possible for building electrification? What opportunities does neighborhood-scale electrification offer, and what challenges are in the way? Our discussion with Michael Walsh of Groundwork Data explores the approach currently being piloted by Massachusetts' gas companies and covers the technology, regulatory policy, and customer factors involved in this undertaking.
Groundwork Data is a research, advisory, and technology firm helping public sector clients navigate the future of heat. Groundwork has engaged in the Future of Gas and the Future of Heat proceedings in multiple states, including Massachusetts, New York, Illinois, and Rhode Island.