In colder climates buildings rely on fuel heating for space heating in many situations. However, as more buildings “fuel switch” to electricity and as extreme temperatures become more frequent, additional burdens are placed on the electrical grid, particularly in peak seasons. This results in higher utility costs, less resilient infrastructure, and the potential for a dirtier grid if gas-fired power plants are required to satisfy demand during times of peak usage.

Understanding peak demand patterns and schedules in buildings will allow building operators to identify opportunities to minimize the load and cost for electricity and gas in heating and cooling seasons and other thermal heating fuel types.