Energy-saving tips can help FortisBC gas and electricity customers manage their energy use during periods of high demand
SURREY, BC, Jan. 29, 2025 /CNW/ – Even with B.C. experiencing a relatively mild winter so far this year, it’s predicted colder temperatures are coming so FortisBC (FortisBC Energy Inc. and FortisBC Inc.) is reminding customers that energy use for heating typically spikes on both its gas and electricity systems during these times.1 FortisBC is offering quick tips to help customers manage their energy use during colder weather while remaining comfortable in their homes.
A thermal imaging camera, available for loan from many local libraries, is showing heat loss from an attic hatch, a common issue which can be addressed with draftpoofing. (CNW Group/FortisBC Energy Inc.)
“We tend to see increased energy use on both our gas and electricity systems when temperatures drop in the winter,” said Danielle Wensink, director, conservation and energy management at FortisBC. “Any heat loss is an opportunity to save energy, so taking steps to find and reduce heat loss can make a space more comfortable and help to lower spikes in energy use.”
According to Natural Resources Canada, home heating makes up more than half of the total household energy use in British Columbia.2 FortisBC typically sees use on both its gas and electricity systems hit the highest annual peak demand during winter months. Its gas system has delivered nearly twice the energy as B.C.’s electricity systems during periods of cold weather.
“While this winter has been fairly mild so far, we know from previous experience there is still ample opportunity to experience colder than normal or extreme temperatures,” continued Wensink. “This energy use is most often reflected on customers’ bills after the colder weather has passed so we want to make sure our customers are prepared and aware of the ways they can manage energy use during a cold snap.”
To help customers manage their energy use, FortisBC offers My Energy Use through Account Online, which can help them understand how they’re using energy in their home and provides a customized energy-savings action plan. There are also simple, low- and no-cost steps customers can take to help lower energy use this winter while staying warm and comfortable:
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Seal gaps and cracks: Caulking windows, applying weatherstripping to doors and sealing gaps in exterior walls can keep heat from escaping. This can save customers around $600 a year.3
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Heat only the areas you use: Use a fireplace or baseboard heaters for the areas you’re using and turn off or lower heating in unoccupied rooms to save energy.
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Program your thermostat: Set your thermostat to 17 °C when you’re out or asleep, and 20 °C when you’re home and awake to lower heating costs, unless you heat with an electric heat pump. In that case, maintain a steady temperature between 17 and 20 °C.
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