British Columbia is rolling out what it calls its largest-ever energy conservation program. It’s a move the province says could help households and businesses in Northeast B.C. reduce costs as electricity demand continues to climb.
In an email announcement, the province says BC Hydro’s new Power Smart 2.0 plan will invest more than $1 billion in energy-saving programs, incentives and upgrades across the province.
Premier David Eby said the initiative is meant to ease financial pressure on residents.
“British Columbians are feeling the pressure of global inflation, and they’re looking for practical ways to reduce costs,” said David Eby. “This plan helps do exactly that by making it easier for families and businesses to reduce their energy bills, while also offering rebates.”
The program builds on decades of conservation efforts, with a focus on reducing overall energy use — something officials say is key to maintaining lower electricity rates long term.
Energy Minister Adrian Dix says the update expands on a program many British Columbians are already familiar with.
“For over 35 years, Power Smart has been helping British Columbians save energy, and money,” said Adrian Dix. “Today, we’re putting that history into new programs and investments for the next 35 years and beyond.”
What it means for Northeast B.C.
While the program is provincewide, the changes could be particularly relevant in Northeast B.C., where many homes rely on electric heating, especially during long winters in communities like Dawson Creek and Fort St. John.
BC Hydro says households that take full advantage of the program could offset as much as one-third of their annual electricity bill, and in some cases nearly half.
Among the key measures:
- Free smart thermostats for electrically heated homes starting in fall 2026
- New rewards of up to $200 per year for residential customers
- Additional support for income-qualified households worth up to $325 annually
- Instant rebates of $10 to $200 on energy-efficient products at participating retailers
- A new mobile app to track energy usage and manage accounts
Housing Minister Christine Boyle says the goal is to make energy savings easier for people at home.
“This historic investment is providing cost savings to British Columbians and helping people to make energy-efficient choices even easier,” said Christine Boyle.
Broader economic impact
BC Hydro says the plan is also expected to reduce strain on the power system by cutting demand, potentially avoiding the need for new infrastructure.
By 2030, the utility estimates the program could deliver enough energy savings to power 220,000 homes and save more than $2 billion in infrastructure costs.
The initiative is also expected to support jobs across the province, including trades and energy-related work that could benefit northern communities.
“This $1‑billion investment is about unlocking savings at every level — from households to large industries,” said Charlotte Mitha, President and CEO of BC Hydro.
Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon says the program could generate economic activity provincewide.
“It is also going to generate an estimated $1.4 billion in GDP and support 3,500 jobs annually,” said Ravi Kahlon.
Looking ahead
With energy demand rising in B.C., officials say conservation — rather than new generation — is a key part of keeping rates stable.
For residents in Northeast B.C., where electricity use can spike during colder months, programs tied to heating efficiency and rebates could play a larger role in managing household costs in the years ahead.