Wells Local Business Honored as BC Hydro’s Clean Energy Champion

Published 12:36 PM Friday, February 6, 2026

Groundbreaking Achievement in Clean Energy Adoption

After nearly three decades of dedicated service, the Frog on the Bog gift shop is enjoying well-deserved recognition for its innovative strides in clean energy solutions. This charming establishment, located in the remote town of Wells, has set a new standard for small businesses across British Columbia.

On February 6, 2026, Frog on the Bog was officially designated as a BC Hydro Clean Energy Champion, marking a significant milestone as it became the first small business in the province to install a cutting-edge small-scale battery backup system. This initiative stands out in one of British Columbia’s most isolated communities, showcasing both creativity and sustainability.

Pioneering Partnership for Cleaner Energy

Owned and operated by local entrepreneurs Dave Jorgenson and Cheryl McCarthy, Frog on the Bog has been trailblazing in its adoption of a commercial-scale battery designed specifically for small enterprises. This battery system not only powers the gift shop but also provides energy for the nearby Willow River Inn, further highlighting the impact of collaboration with BC Hydro on local development.

Wells—a close-knit community with a population of just 220 full-time residents—faces unique challenges including heavy snowfall and frequent power outages. These conditions necessitate resilience among residents, and the shift to clean energy represents a crucial step towards reliability. Dave Jorgenson aptly remarked, “Living in Wells teaches you resilience. Clean energy gives us reliability, reduces our reliance on carbon-fueled generators, and demonstrates to visitors that even a tiny northern town can lead the way in sustainability.”

Innovative Heating Solutions in Harsh Conditions

Frog on the Bog is also receiving accolades for its implementation of cold-climate heat pumps, a solution that has essentially become a model for rural businesses grappling with extreme weather and aging infrastructure. The installation has proven effective even under conditions where temperatures plummet below -20 degrees Celsius.

According to a press release from BC Hydro, “By installing a mini-split heat pump in a minimally insulated, three-storey heritage building, Frog on the Bog demonstrated that clean energy is both feasible and practical in the Cariboo Mountains. This installation has inspired numerous residents in Wells to make the switch to heat pumps as well.”

Community-wide Inspiration and Collaboration

The impact of Frog on the Bog extends beyond its walls, inspiring local residents to collaborate with BC Hydro on various energy-efficient upgrades. Efforts have included enhancing insulation, sealing drafts, replacing outdated appliances, and transitioning to LED lighting. Collectively, these actions are instrumental in reducing the strain on the town’s single-phase power line.

Charlotte Mitha, president and CEO of BC Hydro, emphasized the store’s significance by stating, “Frog on the Bog has always been a cornerstone of the Wells experience—recognizable by its colorful exterior and shelves stocked with locally made goods. Being recognized as a Clean Energy Champion underscores the fact that sustainability is not reserved for large urban areas; it can flourish even in the smallest of communities.”

Enhancing Local Infrastructure for Future Generations

Additionally, Frog on the Bog has contributed greatly to the local infrastructure by facilitating the installation of a BC Hydro 100-kilowatt fast charger at the neighboring Jack O Clubs pub. This initiative allows visitors to Barkerville and Bowron Lake, as well as summer tourists, to conveniently charge their electric vehicles while exploring the region.

“Battery storage adoption is rapidly gaining traction across the province, particularly in areas like Sun Peaks and Mission, where BC Hydro is orchestrating an innovative new Peak Saver project within its Power Smart portfolio. This initiative aims to transform homes into virtual power plants, providing customers with uninterrupted power while enhancing the flexibility of the electricity grid as a whole,” revealed the press release.

legal Assistance through AI legalese decoder

As small businesses pursue clean energy initiatives, they often encounter complex legal regulations and contracts that can be challenging to navigate. AI legalese decoder can play a crucial role in this context by simplifying legal jargon, making it more accessible for business owners. By leveraging AI technology, small business owners like Dave and Cheryl can better understand their rights, responsibilities, and the implications of their clean energy installations, ensuring compliance with local regulations and optimal collaboration with partners like BC Hydro.

This empowers businesses not just to innovate but also to advocate confidently for sustainability in their communities. With AI legalese decoder, navigating the legal landscape becomes less daunting, enabling businesses to focus on their primary mission: building a sustainable future.