FortisBC prioritizes energy efficiency among Indigenous peoples
Recognizing that historical policies continue to impact the housing conditions of Indigenous peoples living on reserves, FortisBC has been making a concerted effort to connect with First Nations communities to address the needed upgrades and make homes more energy efficient and affordable.
“We saw this as an opportunity for us to learn more about the histories of Indigenous peoples and the challenges they have faced and continue to face to this day,” Carol Suhan, manager, conservation and energy management, FortisBC, told American Gas. “There were times where we were received with skepticism, but we worked to find ways, through personal meetings, heightened customer service and overcoming barriers, to build trusting relationships with community leaders and staff.”
The Indian Act of 1876 gave the Canadian government responsibility for on-reserve housing in Indigenous communities, but what was built often didn’t meet the community’s needs and left residents with no control over their living conditions. Lack of funding and support often meant that maintenance and repairs went unaddressed. In fact, 2016 Census data reported that about 44% of First Nations people living on reserve reside in homes that are in need of major repairs. The problem isn’t limited to Canada.
While it takes time—sometimes years—to build relationships, FortisBC’s connection has paved the way for both large-scale, communitywide energy efficiency projects and single-measure retrofits that benefit both the utility and community members, Suhan said.
For example, the Energy Conservation Assistance Program, a joint program with BC Hydro, provides free household energy assessments along with free energy efficiency upgrades, such as LED lightbulbs, weatherstripping to seal drafts, and energy-efficient showerheads. Nineteen First Nations communities have participated in the program, and FortisBC provided almost $700,000 in funding support. In some cases, the utility also helps pay the salary of a support person who helps community members collect and submit their rebate applications for this program.
Last year, FortisBC began offering the Indigenous Communities Conservation Program, which provides support to implement home energy upgrades such as new insulation, windows and doors, as well as space and water heating systems. Six First Nations communities are already taking part in the program, and FortisBC has provided more than $500,000 in funding support.
“For us, these mutually beneficial relationships help us learn more about the issues Indigenous communities face and guide our actions to change our behavior and demonstrate our commitment to reconciliation,” Suhan said.
