Electrification Coaching: How a NJ Couple is Powering a Clean Energy Revolution

by Lara Webb Lipski

New Jersey is at a crossroads. As co-leaders of NJ 50 x 30 Building Electrification (BE), the Millers are driving a grassroots effort to electrify homes, vehicles, and small businesses across the state.

Their most recent initiative, the New Jersey Electrification Coaching Network (NJ ECN), is a volunteer-based program that connects trained coaches with individuals looking to transition from fossil fuels to clean electricity.

The network, launched in the fall of 2024, is grounded in the idea that electrification isn’t just for policy experts or large institutions — it’s a practical, accessible solution for everyday New Jerseyans.

“When we saw our first presentation on heat pumps, they seemed almost magical – zero emissions when run on clean electricity, and three times more efficient than burning gas”
– Pat Miller

The purpose of NJ ECN is simple but powerful: to guide homeowners, renters, and small business owners through the process of electrifying their buildings.

The coaching is free, personalized, and based on the latest best practices. Many of the network’s volunteers, including the Millers, have completed training through Rewiring America or bring decades of professional experience in energy and sustainability.

Why electrification?

The top three sources of greenhouse gas emissions in New Jersey — transportation, buildings, and electricity generation — account for 77% of the state’s emissions, according to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. Burning gas, oil, and gasoline contributes to air pollution, smog, acid rain, and public health crises like asthma and cancer. Globally, fossil fuel air pollution claims nearly 8.7 million lives annually.

The solution lies in building electrification — converting all energy-consuming systems in a building to run on clean electricity. This includes heating and cooling systems, water heaters, stoves, dryers, and even vehicles.

With technologies like solar panels, heat pumps, smart thermostats, EV chargers, and energy-efficient appliances, households can drastically reduce their carbon footprint while saving money and improving indoor air quality.

The NJ ECN coaches provide step-by-step support on projects such as:

- - Installing rooftop or community solar
  - Weatherizing homes by insulating and air sealing
  - Upgrading to electric heat pumps for space and water heating
  - Choosing induction stoves, smart thermostats and heat pump clothes dryers
  - Planning for EVs and chargers

“Electrification isn’t just about the planet — it’s about your health, your wallet, and your children’s future,” says Steve Miller. “Our coaches help people make smart decisions that reduce emissions and keep costs down now and in the future.”

One key part of the program is planning ahead — knowing what you want to install before an emergency strikes. When an old gas furnace breaks or a water heater fails, residents often default to fossil fuel replacements out of urgency.

NJ ECN encourages households to work with a coach now, so they’re prepared with the best clean energy options when the time comes.

The Millers and their team also aim to expand the network of trained coaches. Rewiring America’s free course, which takes just four weeks to complete, offers foundational knowledge in building electrification. Whether participants want to become active coaches or simply understand the concepts for personal use, the training is a valuable resource.

Network Support Beyond 1-on-1 Coaching

Partnerships with towns and Green Teams to establish local sub-networks (already underway in Maplewood)
Community presentations, both virtual and in-person
A growing online database of webinar recordings and resources dating back to 2021
A Substack newsletter featuring articles on home electrification topics

Through their leadership, Pat and Steve Miller are helping New Jersey residents take control of their energy choices and play a direct role in fighting climate change. Their message is clear: start now, before your next appliance breaks, and take advantage of the clean energy tools already available.

“Avoid the emergency situation, and make an electrification plan now to get your choice of clean energy replacement at the right price,” Pat and Steve agree.

To request a free coach, learn more, or sign up for the training, visit the NJ ECN intake form or reach out via email. Each coach is eager to apply their knowledge about clean energy and decarbonizing to help NJ residents on their path to clean air and affordable energy bills. The path to a cleaner, more affordable energy future starts at home. With the right coaches, of course.