Can Our Homes Keep Up With Increasing Electrical Demands?

Published by Government Technology: New electric loads — like those brought about by electric vehicles and heat pumps — will likely force upgrades to home electric systems and building codes, experts say. The real challenge will be making changes consistently.

Homeowners, as well as public-sector officials, looking for guidance around panel upgrades or local building codes — which also likely need an upgrade — should first turn to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), said Kim Cheslak, director of codes at the New Buildings Institute. In the 2024 IECC there will be electrification readiness standards for water heating, cooking, clothes drying, as well as electric vehicles and solar.