Our temperature regularly goes to -20 during the winter so having a backup system makes sense.

I do not understand how housing a bunch of people who want to eat basically salads in one building versus having them spread out all over the city would make any difference in temperature globally.

In one year reverse the US temperature change by cooling our portion of earth.

Gas heat is a lot more comfortable, easier for renters to understand (we are constantly explaining the way heat pumps work to renters, who think you can jack the temperature down to 60 when they are at work then up to 73 when they get home and not get a huge electric bill), and (at least right now) cheaper than electric because of the price of gas.

@Cory LucasIt is your call if you are going to charge them, but their lease probably says they need to keep the heat at a certain temperature.

But I will also look to get a separate meter for electric/utilities.What are thoughts on a landlord thermostat (only a range of temperatures are allowed) being used so temperatures are not extreme?

As far as landlord responsibility, you are responsible for keeping the heat operational to a reasonable temperature.

The helps to equalize the temperature between the top and underside of the roof.

(from study guide)It is important to know the years each act was implemented.Know the reasons, regulations, and ways a landlord can increase rent.Dates for HVAC system tests, turn on/off dates, and temperatures they must maintain.Hot water must maintain 120 degrees.A requirement for housing is to have an exterior LOCKING door.When an owner buys a building they are also buying the lease and must honor the lease.I would suggest to read the "What you should know about Rent Control in the District of Columbia" link on the DC.gov website as well as the study guide from pearson vue inside and out.  

So can the locks, temperature control, etc.While you do need people on the ground, you find them over time.