FortisBC Energy Inc. (FortisBC) is introducing a new rebate of $10,000 or more for eligible customers who replace their home’s older gas heating system with an electric heat pump and high-efficiency gas furnace.1 These dual fuel systems can operate at more than 100 per cent efficiency2 under certain conditions, offering a promising way forward for customers who want to lower the costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their energy use while maintaining access to both the gas and electricity systems for reliable year-round heating and cooling.
“Whether it’s the coldest winter morning or hottest summer afternoon, dual fuel systems provide our customers with the certainty of a comfortable home while using energy efficiently to lower associated greenhouse gas emissions,” said Joe Mazza, vice president of energy supply and resource development at FortisBC. “The new rebate helps make this system more affordable for customers and combines the strengths of both energy systems to meet their heating and cooling needs.”
A dual fuel system provides whole-home heating and cooling and is a good option for homeowners who are replacing an aging gas furnace and want to upgrade to a reliable and efficient system keeping their home comfortable year-round. It includes an electric heat pump for cooling during warm weather and space heating during milder conditions, and a high-efficiency gas furnace for heating in colder weather. The system is operated through a connected thermostat that automatically switches between electric and gas heating at specific temperatures to maximize energy efficiency and comfort. By combining the strengths of both energy systems in this way, a dual fuel system helps lower overall energy use,3 ensures reliable heating on the coldest days and meets the criteria set out in the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 stating all new space and water heating systems must be more than 100 per cent energy efficient by 2030.
FortisBC is currently evaluating dual fuel systems in homes across the province as part of a pilot program to continue to learn more about the energy savings in different climates. A participating customer from Prince George shared his experience with a dual fuel system.
“I’m happy to be part of FortisBC’s pilot program for dual fuel systems,” said Jed, pilot participant. “The system is excellent for the north because the high-efficiency gas furnace can take over during the coldest times of the year. In our region, access to reliable energy is essential; the risk of a temporary loss of service isn’t an option during low temperatures. In addition, the heat pump provides air conditioning in the summer, which has been invaluable during recent heat waves. Having a system that uses both electricity and gas gives me the confidence that I can heat and cool my home comfortably all year-round.”
To make these systems more accessible for customers with unique circumstances and needs, additional funds are also available for income-qualified, Indigenous and Northern B.C. customers. Customers living in and north of 100 Mile House who install a dual fuel system can be eligible for an additional $3,000 top-up offer funded by the Province of British Columbia for a maximum rebate of $13,000. Low-income customers and Indigenous communities may be eligible for a rebate of $15,000. These customers living in northern communities can also access the top-up for a maximum rebate of $18,000.
Reducing energy use is a key element in FortisBC’s own Clean Growth Pathway to 2050 and the company plans to invest close to $700 million in their electricity and gas energy-efficiency programs between 2024-2027. Reducing customers’ GHG emissions is top of mind for FortisBC as they continue to invest in conservation and energy efficiency and work to increase supply of renewable and low-carbon gases.4
For more information about FortisBC’s dual fuel rebate offer, visit fortisbc.com/dualfuel.
