Frequently Asked Questions
Why is BC Hydro providing Energy Conservation Assistance to low income households?
There are many Power Smart programs that offer customers rebate incentives but these programs may not be accessible for customers that have limited disposable income. The purpose of the Energy Conservation Assistance Program is to help low income customers facing these barriers to make their homes more energy efficient and lower their electricity bills.
Why are only BC Hydro account holders eligible to apply for this program?
The intent of the program is to directly help low income customers save energy and save money on their electricity bills. The people who need the program and will benefit the most are those customers that are directly responsible for paying their bills, since the energy savings from the Energy Conservation Assistance Program will result in lowered electricity bills.
I don't live in a low-income household. What kind of incentives can I get for home energy evaluations and retrofits?
LiveSmart BC offers a number of incentives for home energy improvements where homeowners can receive more than $7,000 in rebates for energy saving improvements and equipment starting April 1, 2011. The program is administered by the Province of British Columbia in partnership with BC Hydro and FortisBC. For more information or to apply, visit LiveSmart BC: Efficiency Incentive Program.
Can I apply if I am renting?
Yes, renters are eligible for this program. You will need to obtain a completed consent form from your landlord as a part of the application.
As a housing organization, can I apply on behalf of my low income tenants?
We request that housing organizations interested in applying for the program on behalf of low income tenants visit the program's webpage and fill out a bulk ECAP registration form (found at the bottom of the webpage). A representative from BC Hydro will contact you within 5 business days of receiving the submitted form.
Is ECAP under the LiveSmart umbrella?
No, ECAP is a separately developed and delivered BC Hydro program offered free of charge to qualifying low income customers only. LiveSmart was developed by the Provincial government to offer rebates and incentives to all British Columbians for residential energy conservation upgrades.
How do I get a copy of my Notice of Assessment?
You can register on the Revenue Canada website for a service called ‘My Account’. On that site you get a lot of information including a copy of your Notice of Assessment: visit the Revenue Canada website or call Revenue Canada at 1 800 959 8281.
What if my income (or any qualifying information) changes in the future?
Applicants can reapply for the program if their household situation changes provided that they submit the correct supporting documents (NOA).
What does combined household income mean?
Combined household income is the combined before tax income of every household member 18 years and over (from all sources including social assistance payments, disability, employment insurance, etc).
Last Modified: Jul 25, 2011
