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BC Hydro offering incentive to cut electricity use
BC Hydro announced last week it is offering $100 to customers who cut their electricity use by 10% over 12 months.
Starting November 1, through January 31, 2026, BC Hydro customers can log in to their online account and join Team Power Smart to take on a Reduction Challenge, a pledge to cut electricity use by 10% over the next year.
Those who meet the goal will earn a $100 bill credit or e-transfer, double the usual $50 reward, for successfully reducing their electricity consumption compared to the previous year.
“As we move into the colder, darker months, electricity bills often rise due to increased heating, lighting, and appliance use,” said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. “For many customers, especially those in apartments or smaller homes, this reward could cover a full month or more of electricity costs. And by reducing your energy use, you’ll also see ongoing savings on your monthly bills.”
Last year, over 75,000 British Columbians activated the $100 reward, resulting in energy savings of 19 gigawatt hours, enough to power more than 2,500 homes for a year. The highest number of activations came from the Lower Mainland region of B.C. where more than 47,000 customers took on the 10% electricity savings challenge, BC Hydro reported.
The Lower Mainland is of course much warmer than the majority of mainland and interior B.C.
BC Hydro suggests the following to help curb power use:
- Using a programmable thermostat to reduce heating when you are asleep or away.
- Sealing drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
- Switching to LED bulbs, they use up to 75% less energy than incandescent ones.
- Using energy-efficient appliances (look for ENERGY STAR ratings). Check out the BC Hydro rebates being offered on select ENERGY STAR appliances.
- Installing low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
- Washing clothes in cold water, it is just as effective and saves energy.
- Using smaller appliances such as an air fryer, microwave, toaster oven, or slow cooker instead of the oven when possible.
Sign up at BC Hydro’s website.
e-KNOW file photo
