BC utility to designate 1% RNG for customers

BC gas utility FortisBC said June 27 it would automatically designate for its customers a 1% blend of renewable natural gas (RNG), effective from July 1.

The programme, which was recently approved by the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC), builds on a voluntary initiative which has seen more than 13,000 customers subscribe to receive RNG as part of their gas stream. The voluntary programme will continue, allowing customers to subscribe for as much as 100% RNG.

“It is clear that our province needs all available tools to address climate change and support an affordable energy transition towards lower emissions for residents, businesses and industry,” said Doug Slater, vice-president of indigenous relations and regulatory affairs at FortisBC. “The gas system is undergoing a transition as we work to increase the supply of renewable and low-carbon gases, like RNG, to lower emissions and this new RNG blend offering will help us do that.”

The average residential customer will see no cost impact on their monthly bills, with the 1% blend incorporated as a transport and storage line item. They will also see a carbon tax credit for the portion of their gas designated as RNG.

“RNG is a key component of our climate action plan, as it helps reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions and supports our local economy,” said James Lota, general manager of lands and facilities at the City of Burnaby, a Vancouver suburb. “The RNG blend we subscribe to in our facilities and vehicles is pivotal to our transition to 100% renewable energy, especially for applications that are hard to decarbonise with other solutions.”