Change to FortisBC storage tank EF requirements

FortisBC now requires ENERGY STAR gas fired storage tank water heater models to have a 0.67 Energy Factor (EF) to qualify for its rebates. Current minimum efficiency standards in BC are 0.62 EF. FortisBC made the change to assist the province in transitioning to upcoming federal regulations, which will require all storage tank water heaters to have a minimum 0.67 EF rating in 2016 and further to 0.80 EF minimum efficiency in 2020. The federal regulations will apply to all natural gas residential storage tank water heaters sold in Canada. To date in 2013 over 600 0.67 EF storage tank rebates and over 800 tankless rebates have been distributed by FortisBC.