BC Hydro customers will see bill decreases this year
BC Hydro is committed to keeping rates affordable for its customers while continuing to invest in British Columbia's electricity system. Beginning April 1, as approved by the BC Utilities Commission, electricity bills will increase by 2.3 per cent; however, the B.C. Electricity Affordability Credit announced by government in February will more than offset this increase, which is equivalent to about one-half of the credit.
All residential, commercial, and industrial customers who receive the credit will pay less this year than they did last year. The credit will vary based on an individual customer's annual electricity consumption from the last 12 months. On average, residential households will see a total credit of about $100. Commercial businesses and industrial customers will see a credit of 4.6 per cent – or an average of $400 or $200,000, respectively – to help reduce rising operating costs.
Credits will be applied to eligible customers' bills in equal installments for one year starting in mid-April. There is no need to apply for the credit as it will be applied automatically, and customers with more than one account will receive a credit on each account.
BC Hydro rates continue to remain among the lowest in North America, and we are committed to keeping any future rate increases below cumulative inflation.
For more information, visit the B.C. Electricity Affordability Credit webpage.