B.C. Hydro is making a massive investment in reducing energy consumption to sidestep the need for costly new power generation projects in the coming decades. The provincial utility, in collaboration with the B.C. Ministry of Energy, has unveiled Power Smart 2.0, described as the largest conservation investment in the utility's history.
Program Details and Goals
Starting this fall, B.C. Hydro residential customers can receive free smart thermostats, valued at approximately $350 each, for homes with electric baseboard heating. A new rewards program will allow customers to earn up to $200 annually by reducing energy usage, with low-income households eligible for up to $325 through energy-efficient choices. A mobile app launching this fall will enable users to track power consumption, access savings programs, and manage their accounts.
The initiative aims to save 800 megawatts of hydro capacity by 2030 and reduce annual energy use by 2,200 gigawatt hours—enough to power 220,000 homes. B.C. Hydro estimates this will avoid or defer $2 billion in infrastructure construction costs, while generating $1.4 billion in GDP growth and supporting 3,500 jobs each year.
Benefits for Commercial and Industrial Customers
Commercial and industrial clients can also benefit, with savings of up to 100% of eligible costs for upgrades and new technologies that reduce energy use. “This $1 billion investment is about unlocking savings at every level from households to large industries,” said Charlotte Mitha, president and CEO of B.C. Hydro. “We’re giving customers the tools, incentives and support they need to make lasting improvements that benefit them and the broader system.”
Premier David Eby highlighted the program's role in easing financial pressures: “British Columbians are feeling the pressure of global inflation, and they’re looking for practical ways to reduce costs. This plan helps do exactly that by making it easier for families and businesses to reduce their energy bills, while also offering rebates putting more money back in people’s pockets.”
Economic and Environmental Impact
Ravi Kahlon, B.C.’s minister of jobs and economic growth, emphasized the job creation aspect: “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. These are essential jobs that support our low-carbon economy.”
The original Power Smart program launched in 2008, and B.C. Hydro reports it has already reduced electricity demand by over 7,500 gigawatt hours annually—enough for 750,000 homes. The new Power Smart 2.0 builds on this legacy, aiming to make energy efficiency a cornerstone of the province's energy strategy.
