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This has had an impact on FortisBC customers because almost 75 per cent of the company’s natural gas supply is delivered by Enbridge pipelines. Enbridge announced on October 31, 2018 that the line was expected to be back in service by November 2, 2018, but that it would continue to operate at reduced capacity for several months after.

FortisBC says that it is doing everything possible to make more gas available for customers, but with an increase in use for space heating for winter, it’s expected that B.C.’s natural gas system will be challenged. As a result, the utility is asking customers – everyone from homeowners and stratas to businesses and municipal buildings – to conserve natural gas over the coming months.

Retail businesses and offices can support conservation efforts by turning the thermostat down a degree or two.

Danielle Wensink, Director, conservation and energy management at FortisBC

“We’re truly impressed by the support and initiative our customers have shown to help reduce their use. Their initial efforts saw an immediate reduction of natural gas use,” says Danielle Wensink, director, conservation and energy management, FortisBC. Wensink says there are some simple actions businesses can take to help continue reducing natural gas use. “Retail businesses and offices can support conservation efforts by turning the thermostat down a degree or two,” says Wensink. “And one easy way restauranteurs can support conservation efforts across the province is by turning off decorative natural gas fireplaces.” If everyone uses less for the next few months, it’ll help us to replenish our natural gas storage options, so we can still provide our customers the natural gas they need on the coldest days,” she adds.

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Here are some more tips you can follow to help conserve natural gas:

Turn down the heat: FortisBC recognizes that in some parts of B.C. it may be impractical to turn off thermostats completely due to cold weather. Where possible, set it no higher than 20 °C when heat is needed, and 17 °C in unoccupied areas and during off-hours.

Wear a sweater: The simplest way to stay warm is to reach for a sweater instead of the thermostat.

Harness the sun: On sunny days, take advantage of Mother Nature by opening blinds or curtains to warm up.

Save hot water: Consider installing water-efficient faucet aerators in kitchens and bathrooms and upgrade pre-rinse spray valves in commercial kitchens to high efficiency.


Find the latest news on the Enbridge-owned pipeline rupture and more natural gas conservation tips at fortisbc.com/reduceyouruse.


Advertising feature produced by Globe Content Studio. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.

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