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Interior Health Authority receives $78,000 rebate from FortisBC
PowerSense

The Interior Health Authority (IHA) received $78,000 in rebates from FortisBC PowerSense for energy efficient lighting upgrades completed at its facilities across the Central and South Okanagan.

“Interior Health is committed to meeting environmental goals through conservation, reduction, reuse and recycling programs,” said David Roberts, Manager of Energy for IHA. “Our energy efficient lighting program is a great example of this commitment. Ultimately, it means we’re reducing energy use and environmental emissions, while improving how our buildings work. And, with community partners like FortisBC helping us to realize savings by making better choices, it’s truly a win-win for all.”

Over 16,000 light fixtures were retrofitted at four facilities, which include the Penticton Regional Hospital, Kelowna General Hospital, and Cottonwoods Extended Care and Three Links Manor.

“The Interior Health Authority has continually upgraded their facilities, and FortisBC commends them for their commitment to energy efficiency and the environment,” said Keith Veerman, Manager of Energy Efficiency for FortisBC.

“By making the switch to energy efficient lighting, the IHA will not only achieve substantial energy cost savings, they’ve also created a more comfortable and safer environment for patients and residents.”

The upgrade cost $714,000 with the potential for $100,000 savings in the IHA’s electricity costs each year. The IHA can expect to receive an additional rebate of $48,000 if estimated energy saving targets are met in 2008. The project was designed and managed by MCW Custom Energy Solutions on behalf of the Interior Health Authority.

The lighting upgrades, completed late in 2007, were part of a $5.6 million project that will permanently reduce electricity costs in eight IHA facilities by almost $500,000 per year. Construction is nearing completion on the remainder of the project, with work still underway at Kelowna General Hospital and Vernon Jubilee Hospital.