Local businesses involved in construction, green building materials, and energy services will benefit from the increased demand for higher-efficiency homes.
SURREY – Surrey’s business community is filled with dynamic organizations making waves in various sectors, and some recent developments from key local players offer insights into what’s coming next. From expansions in healthcare and business banking enhancements, to incentives for home builders, a lot has been happening over the past week.
- Fraser Health’s Expansion to Meet Growing Demand
Fraser Health, one of the largest health authorities in British Columbia, has been expanding its reach in Surrey to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. The health authority recently announced the expansion of its Primary Care Networks (PCNs), adding more services for mental health, chronic disease management, and senior care. This expansion means more resources for Surrey’s businesses to support employee health and well-being, especially for those operating in high-stress industries like construction and tech.
Local businesses should see this as an opportunity to strengthen employee retention by offering better access to healthcare services. Additionally, it creates potential partnerships for SMEs in the healthcare sector, including tech companies working on medical innovations or service providers targeting eldercare. More information available here.
- Coast Capital Savings Invests in Digital Solutions
Surrey-based Coast Capital Savings has been ramping up its digital offerings, responding to the growing demand for online banking and financial services. The credit union’s recent blog post highlights its investment in a new fintech partnership to enhance its digital banking tools, making financial management easier for SMEs across Surrey.
For small businesses, this means easier access to digital financial services, which can streamline operations. The increased focus on digital solutions also presents a lucrative market for local tech firms looking to develop banking software or cybersecurity tools. Coast Capital’s continued investment in digital innovation signals a broader trend toward tech-driven banking, which local businesses should leverage. For additional details, read on here.
- FortisBC Revamps Rebates to Support Low-Carbon Homes
FortisBC recently announced a major overhaul of its New Home Program, designed to help builders in Surrey and across British Columbia construct energy-efficient homes that require less energy for heating, cooling, and electricity. The revamped program doubles the rebates available, offering $15,000 or more for building to Step 4 of the BC Energy Step Code and $20,000 or more for achieving Step 5, which represents net-zero ready homes.
FortisBC worked closely with builders to understand the flexibility and support needed to meet the highest energy-efficiency standards while maintaining affordability. The program encourages the use of an integrated design approach, ensuring all building components work together to minimize energy consumption. For Surrey-based builders and developers, this offers a valuable opportunity to meet growing demand for energy-efficient homes while tapping into financial incentives.
These changes are a step toward supporting BC’s growing population and long-term climate goals. Local businesses involved in construction, green building materials, and energy services will benefit from the increased demand for higher-efficiency homes. Additional details about the program are available here.
Stay tuned for next week’s update on Surrey.
Business Examiner Staff
