The LiveSmart BC small business program is helping local businesses save on energy costs.
LiveSmart BC is offering free energy assessments to small business owners and several Elk Valley businesses have already taken advantage of the program, including the Fernie Visitor Centre, Elkford Visitor Centre, Nufloors, Ghostrider Trading Co., and the Snow Valley Motel.
Following a recent energy assessment at The Guides Hut, co-owners Beth and Mark Gallup have since replaced their refrigerator, switched incandescent bulbs to LED’s, and are more conscious of turning off lights and air conditioning when the store is closed.
“I thought the program was great and it was definitely beneficial,” said Beth Gallup. “It makes you just focus on things you might not think of otherwise and it has definitely helped us out as far as our utility bills.”
LiveSmart BC Business Energy Advisor for the Kootenay Region, Marilyn Christensen, said the goal of the program is not only to help businesses save on energy and money, but also to make them aware of any rebate or incentive programs they’re eligible for through BC Hydro and Fortis BC.
Christensen remarked, “It’s just a great opportunity that the government has provided this service for small businesses, because a lot of small businesses don’t have the time to do an assessment or have that info, so it’s a great opportunity to save energy and money.”
There are specific criteria a business is required to meet in order to be eligible for the program. They must spend less than $50,000 on electricity annually, be a registered business that’s privately owned and operated, and they are required to have a commercial electrical account. Additionally, 50 percent of the building in which the business operates has to be used for company purposes.
Interested small business owners can visit www.livesmartbc.ca for more information, or contact Marilyn at 250-426-5914.