CBT funds energy efficiency upgrades for affordable rental properties

The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) has distributed more than $2.8 million to fund energy efficiency upgrades to affordable rental properties across the region.

CBT officials said the projects will benefit 371 individual units across 23 buildings in 11 communities.

“There are so many reasons why this work is important, including helping affordable housing providers keep their energy costs low and rents affordable,” said Ulli Mueller, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, CBT.

“Add to that reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing less to climate change and simply keeping tenants comfortable, and you can see how such steps have broad positive benefits.”

Projects include upgrades such as windows, boilers and installing LED lighting.

CBT officials said this will lead to an estimated energy savings of approximately 1.49 million equivalent kilowatt hours per year.

“This translates into a savings of approximately $160,000 in annual operating costs and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions,” the Trust said.

The funding comes from a partnership between CBT, BC Housing and the BC Non-profit Housing Association.

Details about some of the projects can be found below.

Cranbrook – ʔAqantⱠanam Housing Society – $109,270

CBT officials said the ʔAqantⱠanam Housing Society will use its grant funding to complete the energy renovation of its 12-unit apartment complex in Hillcrest Heights, along with three individual rental units.

“The main priority of ʔAqantⱠanam Housing Society is to maintain or improve the quality of life of our tenants,” said Cecilia Teneese, Executive Director.

“We achieve this by providing a high level of service for housing, including climate adaptation: designing building systems that can adapt to climate changes; affordability – use of energy efficient systems to reduce energy costs; and reliability – ensuring that all essential needs for a safe and comfortable home are met.

The work included upgrading a boiler and hot water tank and installing heat pumps.

“Taken together, today’s upgrades will reduce energy costs and maintenance, increase energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide tenants with cooling in the summer,” Teneese said.

The ʔAqantⱠanam Housing Society offers several affordable housing options, mainly for indigenous peoples.

Nakusp, New Denver and Revelstoke – Halcyon Assisted Living Society – $368,890

Trust officials said the Halcyon Assisted Living Society will use its grants to upgrade senior housing in Nakusp, New Denver and Revelstoke.

“These impacts will have a lasting impact on the overall quality of the environment surrounding these facilities,” said Tim Payne, executive director.

The work includes upgrades such as hot water tanks, insulation, heat pumps and lighting at Halcyon House (Nakusp), Dr. Brouse Lodge (New Denver) and Moberly Manor (Revelstoke).

“The money saved from implementing this grant will make it more affordable for nonprofits like us to operate and remain viable,” Payne said. “We feel extremely fortunate to have access to these initiatives, which will allow us to continue to provide efficient and high-quality services to the population we serve.”

The Halcyon Assisted Living Society aims to provide assisted living, independent living and affordable rental housing for seniors.

Salmo – Salmo Valley Estates – $128,380

Trust officials said the Salmo Valley Estates will use their grant funding to upgrade the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in 20 senior units.

“This upgrade will help reduce CO2 fuel consumption and power consumption, providing our residents with improved performance and comfort all year round,” said Melanie Cox, Manager.

The estates, run by Salmo & Area Supportive Housing Society, ensure seniors can enjoy an independent, active life.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to realize cost savings and deploy solutions that reduce climate impact while increasing comfort for our tenants,” said Cox.

You can view the other projects and their funding amounts here.

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