FortisBC promoting dual fuel solutions

FortisBC energy-efficiency funding will mean more support for deeper-level energy-saving building upgrades. (CNW Group/FortisBC)

FortisBC has received BC Utilities Commission’s approval for its 2024 – 2027 gas demand side management plan, whereby the utility aims to reduce gas use by 3.9 million gigajoules and GHG emissions by just over 200,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent over the four-year period.

In total FortisBC will invest $695.8 million in helping customers reduce their energy use over the next four years, including $626.7 million to support its gas customers in lowering their energy use, and an investment of $68.1 million on energy-saving programs for its electricity customers in the Southern Interior.

“With this funding, we can support some of the most challenging but impactful ways to reduce energy use and help transform how customers use energy in their homes and businesses,” said Joe Mazza, vice president, energy supply and resource development, in a FortisBC media release.

The company identified developing programs for dual-fuel hybrid heating systems as a key area of focus, so customers can pair an electric heat pump with a high-efficiency gas furnace.

FortisBC also plans to enhance its offerings for commercial, industrial and institutional customers, which already include financial support for energy evaluations, process improvement programs and direct rebates on more than 30 product categories.

It’s identified commercial-grade gas heat pumps as one existing program which reduces energy use while leveraging the existing gas system.

A list of FortisBC’s energy conservation programs and rebates can be found at fortisbc.com/rebates.