For the first time ever, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is celebrating seniors’ care providers who are making outstanding strides toward energy savings through the Energy Efficiency Leadership Award. This year, BCCPA is proud to announce Sienna Senior Living as the inaugural recipient of this award.
As one of the largest owners and operators of seniors living communities in Canada, Sienna helps their residents to live full, healthy lives by providing comfortable environments. In seeking opportunities for energy efficient solutions, the organization partnered with FortisBC to implement dual fuel rooftop units (RTUs) across its B.C. homes last year. These RTUs combine electric heat pumps with gas-fired burners, delivering efficient heating and cooling in a single system.
“This project directly supports Sienna’s goals to achieve energy savings through more efficient heating and cooling systems, contributing to expected reduced energy use,” says Rory O’Neill, Regional Manager Building Services (Western Canada) at Sienna Senior Living.
Since the installation of RTUs, the benefits have extended beyond energy savings. Residents now enjoy stable, consistent temperatures in common areas, while the dual-fuel configuration provides operational resiliency, therefore ensuring heating during extreme weather or utility interruptions. The RTU integrates seamlessly with existing building automation systems, offering ease of use and straightforward maintenance.
Sienna encourages other seniors’ care homes to explore energy-efficient options by collaborating with equipment suppliers and utility partners.
“Secure organizational support early and plan replacements in advance to enable better decision-making, access incentives, and achieve the best overall value,” says Rory.
“It was great working with FortisBC on this project. Their incentives make it possible for organizations to choose more efficient solutions that support broader goals and help build repeatable practices for future projects.”
Thank you to FortisBC for making this award possible:
