Can the Lack of Snow Affect BC’s Energy Generation?

We’ve gone on and on about the benefits of solar power and why you should switch to running on sunshine, so this time around, we want to share some factual evidence with you. Almost anyone in BC can agree that the snowfall this year has been underwhelming…to say the least. This is much to the disappointment of avid skiers and snowboarders, who ended up experiencing more slush instead of the fresh powder they were waiting for. However, the lack of snowpack doesn’t only impact winter sports enthusiasts; it has a domino effect on several other environmental aspects.

For starters, less snow means our waterways haven’t filled up to optimum levels, and with the scorching heat in full swing, our forests have higher chances of ending up parched—putting us in the red zone for forest fire season (it’s bleak, we know). That’s not all; to amp up the severity of the lowest record of snowfall BC has ever seen since 1970, less snowpack also means reduced capacity to generate hydroelectric power. In BC, almost 87% of the energy demanded comes from hydroelectric sources, so with lower water levels, this could be a challenging year in terms of forest health and meeting BC’s energy requirements. To read more on the matter, BC Hydro’s take, and how an energy transition may be in effect for all of us in the province, check out Vancouver Sun’s feature article.

Since BC’s dependence on hydroelectric power could very well be on the decline this year, it’s all the more reason to consider solar energy for powering your life. Yearly precipitation can be forecasted but never guaranteed; sunshine, on the other hand, is an abundant resource—especially in BC. Plus, solar panels still produce electricity in the colder months!

At Future West Solar, we make solar simple for you. From the initial consultation process and financing options to solar system installation and performance, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way. Take your energy requirement needs into your own hands, and let us help. Reach out to us if you’d like to learn more or get started!