Building off the success of similar programs, FortisBC is inviting natural gas customers in Kelowna to participate in a new Peak Plan Pilot Program.
According to a press release, the programs can help spread peak energy demands over a long period of time and reduce energy delivery during specific periods like the cold winter months.
“It’s essentially a way to reduce rush-hour traffic on our energy system so we can avoid or defer the need to build a larger energy system or ‘highway’ to keep up,” said program manager Max Mathies.
The pilot will start on November 1 and run until March 31, 2025. FortisBC is offering sign-up incentives of $50 per connected thermostat. As well as a $50 post-pilot incentive for customers who reduce their energy use during at least one request period.
The data and participant feedback will then be used to assess and design a possible expanded program in the future.
For gas customers in Kelowna to participate, they must have one or more of the following devices in their primary residence and have an internet connection to connect it to FortisBC’s partner software upon enrolling in the program: a Google Nest, ecobee, Honeywell Home or Sensi smart or Wi-Fi connected thermostat, controlling a gas furnace.
As a part of the program, participants with thermostats will be provided with advance via email or text message with a request to reduce their energy use.
