Assessing inequities in electrification via heat pumps across the U.S

Abstract

Heat pumps are an energy-efficient and increasingly cost-effective solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector. However, other clean energy technologies such as rooftop solar are less likely to be adopted in underserved communities, and thus policies incentivizing their adoption may funnel tax dollars to well-resourced communities. Unlike previously-studied technologies, the effects of heat pumps on household energy bills may be positive or negative depending on local climate, fuel availability and costs, and other factors. Here we propose a framework for assessing heat pump inequities across the U.S. We find that households in communities of color and with higher percentages of renters are less likely to use heat pumps across the board. Moreover, communities of color are least likely to use heat pumps in regions where they are most likely to reduce energy bills. Public policies must address these inequities to advance beneficial electrification and energy justice.