Fact sheet

New rate

• For many years, BC Hydro has provided free charging at its electric vehicle fast charging stations across the province.
• However, to cover its operating costs and support future growth, it will introduce a new fast charging rate at its stations on May 1, 2021.
• The BC Utilities Commission approved the following interim rates for BC Hydro’s EV charging stations:
  
  • 25-kilowatt power level: 12 cents/min ($3.60 for 30-minute charging session)
    
  • 50-kilowatt power level: 21 cents/min ($6.30 for 30-minute charging session)
  • 100-kilowatt power level: 27 cents/min ($8.10 for 30-minute charging session)
    
• The proposed rates were based on feedback BC Hydro received from electric vehicle drivers as well as information collected on how other jurisdictions were charging their customers. 
  
• BC Hydro encourages its customers to provide their input by May 17, 2021 while the BC Utilities Commission determines the final rates.
  

Electric vehicles a great option for British Columbian

• Choosing an electric vehicle in B.C. will help drivers significantly their reduce carbon emissions because BC Hydro’s electricity is generated from 96 per cent clean or renewable resources.
• It will also help them save 80 per cent in fuel costs.
  
• Provincial and federal rebates of up to $8,000 are available for the purchase of a battery electric EV, as well as home charger rebates up to $350 through BC Hydro.
  
• By the end of 2020, there were more than 50,000 light-duty electric vehicles on the road in B.C., and that is expected to rise to about 635,000 by 2030.
  
• There are currently more than 2,500 public charging stations in B.C. – more than 90 of those are BC Hydro’s EV fast charging stations.

Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
604 928 6468