Contractor is explaining to the homeowners how a dual fuel system works through a connected thermostat that will switch between a heat pump and a high-efficiency gas furnace. (CNW Group/FortisBC)
BRITISH COLUMBIA – FortisBC Energy Inc. (FortisBC) has launched a rebate of $10,000 or more for eligible homeowners who upgrade their old gas heating systems to a dual fuel system, combining an electric heat pump with a high-efficiency gas furnace. These systems can achieve over 100 percent efficiency under certain conditions, providing an effective solution for reducing energy costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while ensuring reliable year-round heating and cooling through both gas and electricity systems.
How Dual Fuel Systems Work
A dual fuel system operates through a connected thermostat, switching between a heat pump and a high-efficiency gas furnace. This setup ensures comfort and energy efficiency, even during extreme weather conditions. Joe Mazza, vice president of energy supply and resource development at FortisBC, emphasizes the benefits: “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.” He adds that the new rebate makes this advanced system more accessible, combining the strengths of both energy systems to meet heating and cooling needs.
FortisBC is piloting dual fuel systems across the province to assess energy savings in different climates.
Additional Financial Support
To increase accessibility, additional funds are available for income-qualified, Indigenous, and Northern B.C. customers. Those north of 100 Mile House can receive an extra $3,000, funded by the Province of British Columbia, totaling up to $13,000. Low-income and Indigenous communities may qualify for rebates up to $15,000, or $18,000 with the top-up.
“We’ve worked together with FortisBC for a number of years to find opportunities to improve energy efficiency in homes and buildings across the province, and we’re looking forward to participating in this new dual fuel offer. In collaboration with our members, we plan to install a number of dual fuel systems in both apartment buildings and residential homes, including in northern communities. This will help make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient, and to keep energy costs affordable for tenants,” Patrick Caraher, Portfolio Planning and Development Specialist at the Aboriginal Housing Management Association.
To qualify for the dual fuel system rebate, customers must meet the following criteria as well as additional terms and conditions for the program:
- have an existing gas furnace that is at least 10 years old
- replace an existing system with a qualifying dual fuel system that includes a qualifying heat pump model and qualifying high-efficiency gas furnace
- install the system with a maximum switchover temperature of:
- 5 °C or lower on Vancouver Island and in the Lower Mainland
- 2 °C or lower in the Southern Interior and Northern B.C.
Business Examiner Staff
