Yes, I want gas-free homes for all Ottawa families! Getting gas out of our homes reduces pollution, fights climate change and lowers bills.
Dear Ottawa City Council,
I am a concerned parent and a resident of Ottawa. I am writing to ask you to support a mandate for all-electric new homes in Ottawa, and a renter-friendly phase out of gas hook-ups in existing residential buildings.
Families in Ottawa will benefit in big ways from an all-electric mandate:
Reducing air pollution is good for our health. The pollution caused by gas appliances is very well documented, both inside and outside the home. Worse still, kids and the elderly are most at risk. Gas appliances release a host of chemicals linked to respiratory illnesses, childhood asthma, heart disease, reproductive problems and cancer.
Families are struggling with bills, and electric heat pumps are almost always cheaper to operate than gas furnaces. Most research shows a savings of $1000+ per household annually - that would make a big difference for families like mine.
Electric heat pumps also function as an air conditioner. The last few summers have been dangerously hot, and unfortunately it seems like Ottawa must now prepare for this to be every summer. Kids are particularly at risk for heat stroke and other extreme heat illnesses - we have to figure out a way to keep our families cool.
Going electric is a big step forward on reducing climate emissions. Natural gas is a major source of climate pollution, and in many Canadian cities, buildings make up 50% of our climate pollution.
As a resident of Ottawa, I want to see what’s best for all my neighbours, whether they rent or own their home, apartment or house. Getting gas out of our homes is a big win for our families.
