FortisBC responds to City of Vancouver’s statement of April 29, 2017
Apr 29, 2017
VANCOUVER, BC – In a statement released on April 29, 2017, the City of Vancouver misrepresented the provincial B.C. Energy Step Code.
The provincial step code focuses on increasing energy efficiency in buildings and appliances. This is fuel neutral, meaning that builders and customers can continue to choose their energy source, including natural gas. These provincial targets are voluntary and intended to be introduced gradually over time.
Conversely, the City of Vancouver’s approach, while also addressing efficiency, focuses on reducing emissions between 50 to 70 per cent in rezoned buildings starting May 1. This will effectively eliminate the use of natural gas for space and water heating in rezoned buildings.
To state that the provincial and City of Vancouver energy policies are aligned is incorrect and misleading.
FortisBC strongly supports repealing the ban on natural gas in the City of Vancouver. Our more than 100,000 Vancouver customers should have the right to choose their energy source. Natural gas is a clean and affordable energy option.
We are continuing to develop 100 per cent renewable natural gas and offer energy efficiency programs to help our customers lower their monthly bills and energy use.