It’s possible to have a more comfortable home and spend less on energy, according to three homeowners in Maple Ridge and one in Langley, who will open their homes to the public.
On April 26, Maple Ridge will be one of 10 B.C. communities participating in climate-friendly homes tours, showcasing homes that have reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions. People can visit a retrofitted 1923 heritage house, a 1981 home covered in solar panels, a 2019 Langley home that produces more power than it needs, and an almost-finished certified passive house in Whonnock.
“Every home is different and hearing directly from the homeowners is a fun way to visualize what can be done in your own home,” said James Rowley, whose Hammond Forever House is on the tour.
Visitors will learn about efficient heating, cooling and hot water systems, improved building envelopes with added insulation and modern windows and doors.
Casa Moreno, the new build in Whonnock, will showcase cutting-edge construction techniques which lower the home’s embodied carbon footprint while reducing future energy requirements by up to 90 per cent. All four homes are generating their own renewable energy with solar panels.
Beyond simply saving money and energy, there are many benefits to climate-friendly homes.
"It’s not easy, but it’s definitely worth it,” Rowley said. “And it’s getting easier all the time.”
Maple Ridge Climate Hub and the City of Maple Ridge are sponsoring the tours, which are coordinated by the Community Energy Association with funding from BC Hydro. Comprehensive information for homeowners can be found on the city’s Energy Rebates page at www.mapleridge.ca/resident-services/sustainability/energy-conservation/energy-rebates.
Visit climate-friendly homes in Maple Ridge on Saturday, April 26 from 11am to 2pm. Get some ideas that will make your home warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and more affordable year-round.
See the Climate-Friendly Homes tour website to learn more climatefriendlyhomestour.ca/mapleridge-langley/.
