Where Gas Once Ran: Pioneering Alternatives Coast to Coast
For decades, gas pipelines have powered homes and businesses, but today, this infrastructure is a major hurdle for a decarbonized future. In the building sector, there’s been a strong push toward retrofits and electrification, but now, legislators and utilities are diving deeper—down to the actual pipes under our streets and the costly challenge of replacing aging gas infrastructure.
California's Path to Electrification
In California, replacing old gas pipelines could cost a staggering $3 million per mile, leading to billions of dollars in upgrades that would eventually fall on the shoulders of utility customers. But lawmakers see another way forward. Enter SB 1221—a groundbreaking bill designed to offer neighborhoods a chance to transition off gas entirely. Under this bill, communities could opt for full electrification, sidestepping expensive gas pipeline replacements. Utility programs would then step in to help residents make the switch with options like heat pump installations, creating a powerful, community-led path to zero emissions.
Massachusetts' Geothermal Model
Meanwhile, on the opposite coast, Massachusetts is testing a new approach with Eversource’s pilot project in Framingham. Rather than replace old gas infrastructure, Eversource is proposing networked geothermal—a sustainable system linking schools, commercial buildings, and homes through geothermal connections. This setup offers potential cost savings, emission reductions, and a lighter load on the electric grid, creating a promising alternative to widespread heat pump installations.
Electrification and Geothermal: Local Solutions to a National Challenge
Both electrification and geothermal networks provide creative solutions to replace traditional gas infrastructure, offering localized alternatives that can be tailored for individual neighborhoods. Gas distribution is already organized by the community, making neighborhood-based approaches—like those in California and Massachusetts—a natural fit for the transition to cleaner energy.
The shift to a low-emission future requires tackling the tough challenge of entrenched infrastructure, but as these pioneering projects show, change is possible. By taking on decarbonization one community at a time, states are paving the way for a future where alternatives like electrification and geothermal energy will keep the lights—and the heat—on.
Related Articles
Want to know more about our whole building Benchmarking Application?
Looking for additional resources?
Head to our Resources page for more industry perspectives and product information.