Press Releases and Statements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACT:  

Audrey Casey

American Public Gas Association

Cell: 757-292-5792

Email: acasey@apga.org

APGA Disappointed with Administration’s Decision to Fund Acceleration of Electric Heat Pump Manufacturing

Washington, D.C. (November 22, 2023) – Today, the American Public Gas Association (APGA), representing more than 730 local, municipally owned natural gas systems in 38 states, issued the following statement in response to the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to invest $169 million to accelerate electric heat pump manufacturing.

“APGA is deeply disappointed with the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to overfund the acceleration of electric heat pump manufacturing across the country. This investment wrongfully prioritizes the use of electric appliances, excludes natural gas and other lower carbon fuels from the clean energy conversation and greatly diminishes consumer choice. 

Invoking emergency authority and utilizing the Defense Production Act on the basis of climate change suggests to the public that electrification is the only path to the clean future we all seek. In reality, forced electrification is an unproven theory that only overburdens the electric grid and consumers’ wallets. 

In spite of the misguided push for electrification, natural gas continues to play a critical role in America’s balanced, clean energy future. The nearly 187 million Americans who currently use natural gas in their homes and businesses should not be forced to pay for costly retrofits and residual high utility bills. Some of our most vulnerable populations, including low-income Americans and seniors living on a fixed income, choose to use natural gas appliances because of their efficiency and affordability. In fact, households that use natural gas save an average of $1,068 per year compared to homes using electricity. 

Smart energy policies should give Americans the ability to choose the energy source that works best for their budgets and lifestyles. APGA and our members stand ready and willing to contribute to solutions that reduce emissions while ensuring that every American can access affordable and reliable energy.”