Climate change: make a difference with a heat pump
West Van’s goal is to become greenhouse gas-free by 2050
We’re all concerned about global warming caused by burning natural gas, coal, and wood to provide heat and hot water in our houses. In West Van, no one uses coal or wood, but many of us heat our homes with natural gas. In fact, 40% of our greenhouse gas emissions come from home heating.
Global warming seems like such a big problem, it’s hard to believe we can do anything about it. But we can.
How?
Install a heat pump. Heat pumps are more efficient at both heating and cooling than electricity and they eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas. If you are considering a new gas furnace or contemplating air conditioning, put in a heat pump instead. It will cool your house in summer and heat your home in winter.
The cost depends on the type of heat pump you want and the size of your home. Many government subsidies can help defray the costs, so it is similar to installing a new furnace.
How do I start?
The District of West Vancouver is promoting the Jump on a New Heat Pump program to encourage residents to lower their GHG production by reducing wasted heat, increasing the efficiency of heating and cooling systems, and using renewable energy sources. This program starts with an energy audit, provides equipment options, lists installers, and assists with rebates. The program also provides concierge services to help you through the process from A to Z.
Where can I find out more?
Go to Jump on a New Heat Pump
Sign up for this free online seminar on July 17, 2024, from noon to 1 p.m., to have all your questions answered.
Request an in-person small group introductory session for five to ten people, starting in September and continuing through 2024/25. Leave your name and phone number at contact@positivevoiceswv.org to receive further information about the introductory session.
To reach our goal of 100% GHG reduction by 2050, we need 642 houses per year to install heat pumps.
We hope you consider installing a heat pump to help combat climate change and make West Van GHG-free by 2050.
