Hundreds of thousands of people in British Columbia may soon be able to lower their bills and reduce energy use as BC Hydro launches Power Smart 2.0.
It’s the largest-ever B.C. conservation program, with plans to invest more than $1 billion in the project.
Since 2008, energy-efficiency efforts in B.C. have reduced electricity demand by more than 7,500 gigawatt hours annually, which is roughly enough to power 750,000 homes.
“We’re giving customers the tools, incentives and support they need to make lasting improvements that benefit them and the broader system,” said Charlotte Mitha, president and CEO, BC Hydro.
What is Power Smart 2.0?
It’s designed to offer customers practical ways to save by focusing on using energy more efficiently, which helps keep costs down.
- Free smart thermostats (a $350 value) will be available in fall 2026 for homes with electric-baseboard heating, helping automate savings and improve comfort.
- New rewards for residential customers will provide the ability to earn as much as $200 per year, plus additional bill savings from using less energy.
- Enhanced support for income-qualified households can earn them as much as $325 annually through expanded programs, in addition to bill savings, from making energy-efficient choices.
- A new mobile app will be launched in fall 2026, making it easier for customers to track usage, access programs, and manage their accounts.
- Instant rebates at checkout can lead to savings of $10 to $200 on energy-efficient products at more than 300 stores throughout B.C.
An average customer in an electrically heated home, taking full advantage of available programs and offers, can offset as much as one‑third, and in some cases nearly half, of their annual BC Hydro bill.
“This historic investment is providing cost savings to British Columbians and helping people to make energy-efficient choices even easier,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.
By reducing overall demand, BC Hydro can avoid or delay the need for costly new infrastructure.
While residents are the focus, it also aims to deliver strong benefits for businesses.
Commercial and industrial customers will have access to expanded funding, including as much as 100% of eligible project costs in some cases.
President and CEO of Baptist Housing Seniors Living, Marc Kinna, says power smart programs have helped them invest in upgrades.
“The savings generated through these initiatives are reinvested directly into resident care, services and building improvements, helping us continue providing safe and welcoming homes for seniors across British Columbia,” added Kinna.
BC Hydro’s Power Smart investment aims to drive economic growth throughout the province, generating an estimated $1.4 billion in GDP and supporting 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. These are essential jobs that support our low-carbon economy,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth.
To learn more about Power Smart 2.0, visit the BC Hydro Power Smart website.
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