FortisBC's Enhanced New Home Incentive Programs and Examples

FortisBC's New Home Program offers substantial incentives to builders and developers committed to constructing energy-efficient homes that meet higher levels of the BC Energy Step Code. These incentives not only reduce construction costs but also promote sustainable living by encouraging the adoption of advanced energy-efficient technologies.

Key Incentives and Rebates

• Whole Home Rebates:

  • Step 4 Homes: Achieving Step 4 of the BC Energy Step Code may qualify for a rebate of $15,000.

  • Step 5 Homes: Meeting Step 5 standards can result in a rebate of $20,000.

• Energy Advisor Support:

  • Builder Rebate: $800 for hiring a program-qualified energy advisor.

  • Mid-Construction Blower Door Test: An additional $500 if the builder opts for a mid-construction blower door test.

  • Energy Advisor Rebate: $200 for the energy advisor.

• Equipment and Appliance Rebates:

  • Drain Water Heat Recovery System: $250 for properties where a FortisBC energy source supplies domestic hot water.

  • Connected Thermostat: $100 for properties with a FortisBC energy source supplying space heating.

  • ENERGY STAR® Appliances:

    • Refrigerators: Up to $100 for FortisBC electricity customers.

    • Washers: Up to $100 for FortisBC electricity customers.

    • Dryers: Up to $250 for FortisBC electricity customers.

• Design Offer Rebates:

  • Integrated Design Process: $1,000 for focusing on improved building envelopes and installing high-efficiency equipment.

  • Building Envelope Design: Up to $3,000.

  • Mechanical Design: Up to $3,000.

Example Scenario: Constructing a Step 5 Home

Consider a builder aiming to construct a home that meets Step 5 of the BC Energy Step Code. The potential incentives include:

• Whole Home Rebate: $20,000.

• Energy Advisor Support:

  • Builder Rebate: $800.

  • Mid-Construction Blower Door Test: $500.

  • Energy Advisor Rebate: $200.

• Equipment and Appliance Rebates:

  • Drain Water Heat Recovery System: $250.

  • Connected Thermostat: $100.

  • ENERGY STAR® Appliances:

    • Refrigerator: $100.

    • Washer: $100.

    • Dryer: $250.

• Design Offer Rebates:

  • Integrated Design Process: $1,000.

  • Building Envelope Design: $3,000.

  • Mechanical Design: $3,000.

Total Potential Incentives: $28,750.

These incentives significantly offset the costs associated with implementing advanced energy-efficient technologies, making it more feasible for builders to construct homes that are both environmentally responsible and cost-effective for homeowners.

How Energy Advising Services Enhance the Process

Engaging with a program-qualified energy advisor is crucial for navigating the complexities of the New Home Program. Energy advisors provide expert guidance on ensuring compliance with the BC Energy Step Code, and assisting with the rebate application process. Their expertise helps builders make informed decisions that maximize incentives and enhance the overall energy performance of the home.

For more detailed information on FortisBC's New Home Program and to explore how these incentives can benefit your construction projects, contact Fernie Energy and Dan at dan@fernieenergy.ca