BC Hydro says thousands of households across BC will soon be eligible for free smart thermostats as part of a new province-wide energy conservation program.
The utility and provincial government announced the new plan Tuesday, which includes more than $1 billion in energy-saving investments over the coming years.
The program includes expanded rebates, customer incentives and new tools aimed at helping people reduce electricity use.
Free smart thermostats, valued at approximately $350, are expected to become available in fall 2026 for homes with electric baseboard heating. BC Hydro says the devices can help automate energy savings and improve temperature control in homes.
The program will also introduce new annual rewards for residential customers, with BC Hydro saying some households could earn up to $200 per year through energy-saving programs.
Expanded supports for income-qualified households could provide up to $325 annually through rebates and incentives.
A new mobile app is also expected to launch this fall, allowing customers to track electricity usage, manage accounts and access rebate programs.
The utility says instant rebates ranging from $10 to $200 will also be available on select energy-efficient products at hundreds of stores across BC.
According to BC Hydro, customers who participate in multiple programs may be able to offset up to one-third of their annual hydro bill, with some households potentially saving more.
BC Hydro says the broader goal of the conservation plan is to reduce electricity demand as energy use continues to grow across the province. The utility estimates the program could save enough electricity by 2030 to power approximately 220,000 homes annually.
The plan also includes expanded funding opportunities for commercial and industrial customers looking to complete energy-efficiency upgrades.
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