Columbia Basin Trust has announced funding for Elk Valley Senior Housing Society, to make Lilac Terrace in Sparwood more resilient during power outages.
The Trust is contributing $325,000 to fund a backup power system at Lilac Terrace. A 150kW diesel-fuel generator with a 800A automatic transfer switch will be installed to power 43 rental units at the senior's residence.
The upgrades will ensure that the buildings can continue to support essential services when the power goes off.
"Power outages can be particularly challenging for senior housing facilities, where health and safety are always top of mind," said building administrator Melissa McDougall. "This backup power solution will make a world of difference in our ability to continue providing vital services, such as heating, cooling and medical care, without interruption."
The upgrades are among five regional projects being funded by the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT), in Kaslo, Nakusp, Salmo, in addition to Sparwood.