FortisBC customers planning to complete energy upgrades to their houses can take advantage of rebates and incentives offered by the company and the provincial government.
The provincially run LiveSmart BC program provides up to $7,000 in assistance to people who complete energy efficiency upgrades under the advice of a certified energy advisor.
The incentives are for specific upgrades including windows and doors, insulation, heat pumps and high efficiency furnaces.
The first step in participating is to book an energy assessment with a certified energy advisor.
When a homeowner completes some or all of the recommended upgrades, a post-retrofit assessment will qualify them for refunds.
The upgrades and follow-up assessment must be completed on or before March 31, 2013 when program funding is scheduled to end.
Rebates and incentives are also available directly through FortisBC.
Natural gas customers can access assistance for energy-reducing options including EnerChoice fireplaces or upgrading from propane or oil to natural gas furnaces.
FortisBC electricity customers who may not be eligible for LiveSmart BC incentives can apply for rebates directly through FortisBC PowerSense.
“It’s important to note that in addition to rebates, customers who complete energy efficient upgrades to their home may see ongoing savings to their utility bills and improve the overall comfort of their home,” said FortisBC spokesman Tom Loski.
A certified energy advisor will help determine the improvements that are most cost effective for but it’s up to the homeowner to decide which upgrades to do.
The B.C. government encourages participants to research energy efficiency products by talking to retailers, contractors and the certified energy advisor who does their home energy assessment.