BC Hydro and West House
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BC Hydro has been working with Simon Fraser University’s School of Interactive Arts and Technology and the Mathematics of Information Technology and Complex Systems (MITACS) Internship program for graduate students since 2008. The internship cultivates social behaviour and psychology research as it relates to conservation.
One of the research projects that evolved out of this internship program was West House, a model sustainable home. West House will produce more energy than it uses through insulation, a heat-recovery ventilation system and two types of solar energy. The garage features an electric car-charging outlet.
Now located on Stainsbury Avenue in Vancouver and occupied by tenants, West House demonstrates how a multi-party partnership, including SFU, the city of Vancouver and Western Economic Diversification Canada can turn an idea into reality.
It also shows how partnerships can accelerate advancements in energy conservation, technology and innovative home design, says BC Hydro.
BC Hydro continues to explore how newer technologies can be applied in homes. West House’s various solar technologies coupled with the consumption feedback that SFU is tracking will help BC Hydro understand how a home can use less electricity.
Not only that, says BC Hydro, “Studies have shown that people will reduce their energy consumption when they have access to better and current information.”
The research results from West House will be invaluable, BC Hydro adds. “They will help us better understand human behaviour in a conservation context within a small living space, so we can continue to help our customers manage their electricity consumption and save money.”
BC Hydro’s goal is to ensure that at least 66 per cent of new electricity demand is met through conservation and efficiency by 2020.
About BC Hydro:
Fifty years ago, British Columbians turned to BC Hydro to build the clean electricity system they count on to power B.C.'s economy, create jobs in every region, and keep the lights on.
Now, BC Hydro is building again for the next 50 years. B.C. continues to grow and so has the need for more electricity.
That’s why BC Hydro is building, renewing, and encouraging conservation to meet today’s needs and those of future generations. In 2011, BC Hydro is celebrating 50 years of providing power for British Columbians, and inviting them to help prepare for the next 50 years.
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