Small Business and CommercialWhatever business you're in, energy costs can account for a significant portion of your overhead costs. Whether you are considering upgrades to an existing facility, or are planning to build a new one, FortisBC PowerSense can offer you expert advice as well as valuable rebates on energy efficient technologies and solutions that will help you get the most out of your energy dollar. Qualified customers can also take advantage of a free walk-through energy audit conducted by a qualified technical advisor to identify where conservation opportunities exist. If required, we'll also fund up to 50 percent, to a maximum of $5,000, of an approved consultant's fee to conduct a comprehensive energy study. For more information on how FortisBC PowerSense can help you with your next project, contact your local FortisBC PowerSense Technical Advisor. Energy Efficient Technologies & Solutions:LightingLighting accounts for a large portion of the electricity used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. For example, in a large office building, electric lighting can account for up to 60 % of electricity usage, and may claim up to 1/3 of the total energy costs for the building. With energy efficient lighting technologies, you can improve the quality of lighting while consuming less energy. This will:
Energy-efficient lighting products that qualify for FortisBC rebates include:
See Energy-Efficient Lighting Technologies for more information on the above products. HVACBy taking advantage of energy-efficient technologies for your HVAC system, you will not only make the building more comfortable, you will see real savings on your energy bill. FortisBC PowerSense can help you decide on what the best option is for your building, and will also provide you with valuable rebates for HVAC upgrades. HVAC energy-efficient upgrades include:
Commercial Space Heat Cost Comparison Water HeatingFor domestic hot water, process water, swimming pools and spas, take advantage of efficient hot water heating technologies such as heat pumps and solar heating, and heat recovery. Water conservation technologies such as low flow faucet aerators and shower heads also save hot water. RefrigerationRefrigeration equipment in ice arenas, grocery stores, fruit packing and other facilities, uses large amounts of power. Energy savings are available with upgrades such as: Ice rinks
Grocery stores and other retail
Fruit Packing plants
All facilities
Digital controlsComputerized controls of lighting, HVAC, motors, mechanical and process equipment offers convenience to the operator and well as substantial energy savings. MotorsHigh efficiency motors will cut your operating costs through improved performance, lower transformer loading, cooler operation and a longer life. FortisBC PowerSense will help you to upgrade or add new motors to your operations, providing they exceed the Provincial Government Standards. Variable Speed Drives on electrical motors can save power in cases where motors operate under variable load conditions. Building envelopImproving your building's envelope will help eliminate energy leaks that exist in many buildings. Energy-efficient upgrades include:
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If you have a larger house and aren't using one or more rooms, be sure to lower the heat to those rooms by closing the vents or turning down the heaters. Check your basement and attic to ensure you're not heating areas that aren't occupied. 
Energizing solar hot water in BC. SolarBC helps out with up to $1,625 towards the cost. Installing solar hot water will improve your energy security, save you money, and give you peace of mind.
The LiveSmart BC: Efficiency Incentive Program can help you save money and energy on residential and business upgrades.
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