FortisBC is working to connect record number of customers

Nov 17, 2017

Information Bulletin

SURREY, BC – FortisBC is working to connect a record number of customers to natural gas services in anticipation of 20,000 new requests in 2017. This is an unprecedented number of connections for FortisBC and includes a 65-per-cent increase in service requests between September and October of this year.

By early November of this year, 17,034 natural gas service connections were completed, compared with 17,268 total new customers in 2016. The anticipated number of requests for natural gas service in 2017 is a 16-per-cent increase over 2016 and a 48-per-cent increase since 2014.

The record requests for service demonstrate that our customers value the comfort and convenience of natural gas. Natural gas is one of the most affordable heating options available—up to one-third the cost of electric heat.

The high volume of service connection requests have resulted in longer-than-normal wait times for homes requesting new gas service installations and customers requiring changes to their gas installation service.

FortisBC is adding and reprioritizing resources so we have the people and equipment necessary to connect new customers as quickly possible. New customers and home builders can help by ensuring that the home is ready for connection on the scheduled date and ensuring crews can access the meter by removing debris, snow or any other materials.

FortisBC appreciates the patience and understanding of customers who may have to wait longer than expected, while we work to connect a record number of homes to natural gas service. Our primary goal is to provide excellent customer service and to connect all of our customers to energy as quickly, conveniently and safely as possible.

For more information about connecting to natural gas services, please visit fortisbc.com/getnatgas.

 

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