British Columbians “are feeling the pressure of global inflation, and they’re looking for practical ways to reduce costs,” according to Premier David Eby.
In response, BC Hydro this week unveiled Power Smart 2.0, a major conservation effort supported by an investment north of $1 billion that is designed to offer customers practical ways to save on energy with minimal effort.
“This plan helps do exactly that by making it easier for families and businesses to reduce their energy bills, while also offering rebates,” Eby says, “putting more money back in people’s pockets.”
An average customer in an electrically heated home can offset as much as one‑third of their annual BC Hydro bill, he says.
Since 1989, the Power Smart program has affected how British Columbians use electricity in their homes and businesses by encouraging small actions like turning off lights, adjusting thermostats, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.
“For over 35 years, Power Smart has been helping British Columbians save energy, and money–at home, in the office and on the job site,” commented Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “Today, I’m thrilled to launch Power Smart 2.0, putting the power of history into new programs and investments for the next 35 years and beyond.”
Free smart thermostats, valued at $350, will be available this fall for homes with electric-baseboard heating, while rewards for residential customers will provide an ability to earn up to $200 per year, and “Enhanced support” for lower-income households aim to provide even more.
“The new BC Hydro Power Smart 2.0 plan is making it even easier for people to make their homes as energy efficient as possible,” stated Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “This historic investment is providing cost savings to British Columbians and helping people to make energy-efficient choices even easier.”
BC Hydro hopes to delay the need for new infrastructure by reducing energy demand.
“This $1-billion investment is about unlocking savings at every level, from households to large industries,” remarked Charlotte Mitha, chief executive officer of BC Hydro. “We’re giving customers the tools, incentives, and support they need to make lasting improvements that benefit them and the broader system.”
Power Smart 2.0 “not only puts money back in the pockets of British Columbians,” according to Minister of Kobs Ravi Kahlon, “but it is also going to generate an estimated $1.4 billion in GDP and support 3,500 jobs annually.”
This includes “everything from contractors performing home upgrades, solar panel installers, and designers and builders of new energy-efficient industrial plants, to energy managers and consultants supporting businesses with strategic energy management, integrated energy audits and studies,” Khalon said. “These are essential jobs that support our low-carbon economy.”