News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Meet the Team: Harshit Srivastava, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Energy Analyst
Harshit Srivastava is TOTA's dedicated Energy Analyst, collaborating closely with FortisBC to introduce energy efficiency solutions to the tourism industry. Learn more about Harshit’s professional background and his work delivering opportunities that lead to cost savings and a reduction in carbon footprints.
Harshit Srivastava is TOTA's dedicated Energy Analyst, collaborating closely with FortisBC to introduce energy efficiency solutions to the tourism industry. In alignment with TOTA's commitment to reducing the environmental impact of the Thompson Okanagan tourism sector, the Energy Analyst role complements the Biosphere Commitment Program initiative. Harshit's specialization in energy allows him to support local tourism businesses by delivering opportunities that lead to cost savings and a reduction in carbon footprints.
Since joining TOTA two years ago, Harshit’s work has earned him the recognition of the FortisBC Energy Specialist Program Award - Achievement in Energy Efficiency Goals 2022.
Q&A with Harshit
Could you share a bit about your background and what motivates you to work with TOTA and FortisBC in the role of Energy Analyst?
“I'm a mechanical engineer specializing in renewables, particularly waste-to-energy and biofuels. With hands-on experience in various waste-to-fuel and energy technologies, as well as carbon cleaning and capturing, I pursued my Masters in Clean Energy Engineering at the University of British Columbia (UBC). For the past two years, I've been contributing my expertise at FortisBC, a forward-thinking company actively transitioning to low-carbon fuels like RNG. Working here enables me to apply my knowledge, aligning with my passion for renewables and commitment to combating climate change.”
What aspect of tourism are you passionate about?
“Tourism creates numerous jobs worldwide, especially evident post-pandemic with a surge in visitors to the Thompson Okanagan region. This allows me to collaborate with diverse businesses—wineries, hotels, restaurants, cafes, golf courses, museums, airports, and more. As sustainability becomes a priority for visitors, businesses are motivated to reduce their carbon footprint for sustainable tourism. My role involves aiding these businesses by offering sustainable solutions through energy-efficient measures, equipment upgrades, and transitioning to renewable options like Renewable Natural Gas (RNG).”
How do you leverage your expertise to support tourism businesses?
“Businesses use energy for various purposes like heating, cooling, lighting, and cooking. To minimize their carbon footprint, they should focus on two key actions:
First, they need to cut down on energy usage, achieved through energy-efficient measures and equipment. Second, they should switch from fossil fuels to renewable alternatives.
I support businesses by conducting energy audits to identify areas for improvement, reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, I assist them in accessing rebates available for energy-efficient equipment.”
What inspired your career in sustainable energy and lead you to work in Renewable Natural Gas?
“Waste is a growing concern, and if not managed properly, it can harm the environment. During my studies, I read about a landfill explosion caused by methane buildup, resulting in fatalities and injuries. This incident inspired me to focus on sustainable energy, particularly converting organic waste into RNG. This process addresses both waste management issues and provides a renewable alternative to Fossil Natural Gas.”
How easy is it to make the switch to RNG, and how does it help tourism businesses?
“Switching to RNG is straightforward, requiring no changes to appliances or equipment. FortisBC customers can easily make the switch by calling FortisBC or logging into their account. Customers have the flexibility to choose full or partial RNG adoption, ranging from 5% to 100%. For tourism businesses, transitioning to RNG can nearly eliminate their carbon footprint, as RNG's emission factor is 99.4% less than that of Natural Gas.”
Learn More about RNG
Learn more about the benefits of making this simple switch by scheduling an Energy Audit with Harshit at https://TOTABC.org/energy-assessment.
Work Towards Climate Action Goals by Switching to RNG & Enter to Win a Two-night Stay at Garnet Valley Ranch Winery
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is leading an initiative that takes meaningful and measurable steps to reduce the region’s carbon footprint. The campaign seeks to increase awareness on the simplicity of switching to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) to heat and power homes and tourism businesses - and to inspire action.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Initiative aids Province’s ‘CleanBC Roadmap to 2030’
Through a new partnership with Natural Resources Canada and FortisBC, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is working to take meaningful and measurable steps to reduce the carbon footprint in the Thompson Okanagan region. The partnership aims to increase awareness on the simplicity of switching to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) to heat and power homes and tourism businesses - and to inspire businesses and residents to take action.
The partnership has launched a campaign inviting FortisBC customers to make an immediate change to RNG, a more sustainable fuel source than other natural gasses.
What is RNG and its environmental benefits?
Conventional natural gas and RNG are chemically identical and interchangeable within existing infrastructure, but RNG is created through renewable sources, meaning RNG is a low carbon alternative which will reduce emissions and align users with the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.
RNG is a purified ‘biogas’ made from commonly found organic materials, plants, animal refuse, and waste. These materials are brought to a dedicated facility, such as the Glenmore Landfill in Kelowna and the Salmon Arm Landfill, where methane is processed and repurposed into the accessible fuel source.
FortisBC is the flagship utility company of British Columbia dealing in natural gas and Renewable Natural Gas.
For more information, visit TOTABC.org/RNG.
Make the switch to RNG
Switching to FortisBC’s RNG option does not require any new equipment, upgrades, or installations; or upgrades to existing appliances.
In just a few minutes, business and residential FortisBC customers can make an immediate move to reduce harmful climate change emissions and achieve sustainability goals.
The cost of RNG depends on the blend chosen. Customers can choose to switch to 5%, 10%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of their natural gas to RNG.
Simple Steps to Switch to RNG
Log in to your account at FortisBC.com.
Under the “Manage Services” menu, select “Renewable Natural Gas.”
Follow the instructions to enroll.
If you have any questions for your business, feel free to connect with TOTA’s Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, at Energy@TOTABC.com or schedule a meeting for a free Energy Assessment.
Businesses Leading by Example + Contest
TOTA and FortisBC are pleased to partner with a Summerland-based business that takes their commitment to sustainability seriously: Okanagan Crush Pad and Garnet Valley Ranch Winery are adding Renewable Natural Gas into their energy portfolio, and also encouraging others in the region to take steps towards reducing climate-changing emissions by offering a two-night stay at the brand-new Garnet Valley Ranch Winery to bring awareness to this worthy climate action cause. Learn more and enter to win.
Funding provided by Natural Resources Canada
Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) is the department of the Government of Canada responsible for natural resources, energy, minerals and metals, forests, earth sciences, mapping, and remote sensing. NRCAN is committed to improving the quality of life for Canadians by ensuring the country’s abundant natural resources are developed sustainably, competitively, and inclusively. NRCAN develops policies and programs that enhance the contribution of the natural resources sector to the economy and conducts innovative science in facilities across Canada to generate ideas and transfer technologies. Natural Resources Canada has provided TOTA with funding to spread awareness about the benefits, availability, and accessibility of Renewable Natural Gas to regional tourism stakeholders.
About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA plays a support, leadership and growth role in the tourism industry for this region. It aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key TOTA initiatives include: Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Generations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.
For more information about TOTA visit TOTABC.org, or visit the consumer facing website ThompsonOkanagan.com. Connect socially on Instagram at @Thompson_Okanagan.
Energy Efficiency Tips: About Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) will play a significant role in decarbonising businesses by leveraging existing gas pipeline systems. Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is made from organic waste produced by everyday activities. As organic matter such as food decomposes, it releases biogas which when cleaned produces methane, also known as Natural Gas. As this methane is produced through organic resources it is considered completely biogenic or carbon neutral.
FortisBC is offering renewable and low carbon gases to customers as part of the 30BY30 target to reduce its customers’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 in support of the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.
To learn more about renewable natural gas and other ways to reduce your business' carbon footprint, register for a free Energy Assessment or connect with TOTA’s Energy Analyst at Energy@TOTABC.com.
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) will play a significant role in decarbonising businesses by leveraging existing gas pipeline systems.
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is made from organic waste produced by everyday activities. As organic matter such as food decomposes, it releases biogas which when cleaned produces methane, also known as Natural Gas. As this methane is produced through organic resources it is considered completely biogenic or carbon neutral.
FortisBC is offering renewable and low carbon gases to customers as part of the 30BY30 target to reduce its customers’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 in support of the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.
To learn more about renewable natural gas and other ways to reduce your business' carbon footprint, register for a free Energy Assessment or connect with TOTA’s Energy Analyst at Energy@TOTABC.com.
Sustainable Energy Tips for Tourism Businesses
Energy is used every day to modulate temperature, light indoor and outdoor environments, heat water, and run appliances.
According to Natural Resource Canada more than 60% of the total energy consumption in a building is utilized for space heating.
The following energy efficiency tips can help in reducing your business’ energy consumption and will bring added benefits of cost saving and reducing your carbon footprint:
Regularly maintain and replace worn caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps and cracks.
Install programmable thermostat to turn down the heat to about 17 degree Celsius after business hours and in unoccupied or less frequently used areas.
Upgrade to LED lighting to enhance your indoor atmosphere and save energy costs.
Replace standard incandescent bulbs with Energy Star rated LED bulbs and T12 fluorescent lamps and high performance T8 or LED lighting.
Have appliances serviced regularly to keep them operating safely and efficiently.
Energy is used every day to modulate temperature, light indoor and outdoor environments, heat water, and run appliances.
According to Natural Resource Canada more than 60% of the total energy consumption in a building is utilized for space heating.
The following energy efficiency tips can help in reducing your business’ energy consumption and will bring added benefits of cost saving and reducing your carbon footprint:
Regularly maintain and replace worn caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps and cracks.
Install programmable thermostat to turn down the heat to about 17 degree Celsius after business hours and in unoccupied or less frequently used areas.
Upgrade to LED lighting to enhance your indoor atmosphere and save energy costs.
Replace standard incandescent bulbs with Energy Star rated LED bulbs and T12 fluorescent lamps and high performance T8 or LED lighting.
Have appliances serviced regularly to keep them operating safely and efficiently.
Free Business Energy Assessment
TOTA offers complimentary virtual Energy Assessments to tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan region. Since beginning the program in July 2020 with FortisBC, TOTA has helped businesses identify annual cost saving opportunities ranging from $100 to $2,500, with additional cost savings available through rebates.
Whether you are a business owner or are a long-term leaseholder of a commercial building or industrial facility, the Energy Analyst can help you save on operating costs by improving the efficiency of your energy usage, furthermore reducing your environmental impact and greenhouse gas emissions.
TOTA's Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, has a Masters in Clean Energy Engineering from the University of British Columbia and relevant industry experience. Harshit is eager to work with regional tourism stakeholders to help reduce energy costs through energy efficiency and conservation initiatives.
TOTA offers complimentary virtual Energy Assessments to tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan region. Since beginning the program in July 2020 with FortisBC, TOTA has helped businesses identify annual cost saving opportunities ranging from $100 to $2,500, with additional cost savings available through rebates.
Whether you are a business owner or are a long-term leaseholder of a commercial building or industrial facility, the Energy Analyst can help you save on operating costs by improving the efficiency of your energy usage, furthermore reducing your environmental impact and greenhouse gas emissions.
TOTA's Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, has a Masters in Clean Energy Engineering from the University of British Columbia and relevant industry experience. Harshit is eager to work with regional tourism stakeholders to help reduce energy costs through energy efficiency and conservation initiatives.
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
TOTA is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to Thompson Okanagan tourism companies that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal is to help the businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.
TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process till the application gets approved.
To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with the TOTA Energy Analyst.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to tourism businesses in the region that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal of these free services is to help businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.
Your company might be eligible for FortisBC rebates if you are a FortisBC electricity or natural gas customer, meet their requirements for energy-efficient equipment, and you:
Are trying to find ways to reduce energy costs or capital expenses for your business
Are planning to purchase or upgrade lighting, HVAC equipment (boilers, furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps, rooftop units, ovens, dishwashers, etc), or other appliances for your business
Have purchased or installed any of these within the last 365 days
Energy Analyst Services
TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist you in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process until the application gets approved.
To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with TOTA’s Energy Analyst.
Examples of FortisBC rebates available:
Commercial lighting rebates up to $30 per unit per LED lamp, up to $200 per LED interior luminaire, and up to $220 per LED exterior luminaire (only eligible models of lamps, luminaries, occupancy and photocell sensors)
Natural gas boiler rebates up to $20,000 when installing an eligible mid-efficiency natural gas boiler. For a limited time, until December 31, 2021, FortisBC has even bigger rebates on eligible high-efficiency condensing models, up to $60,000 per boiler.
Heat pump and electric water heater rebates up to $1,000 per water heater for ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heater and up to $600 per ton for eligible variable refrigerant flow heat pump model
Kitchen and laundry equipment rebates (eligible models of convection ovens, fryers, griddles, hot food holding cabinets, steam cookers, dishwashers, demand controlled ventilation exhaust hoods, clothes washers, etc).