Earlier this month, in response to the ongoing economic and trade uncertainties impacting people and businesses across British Columbia, the Province submitted a rate stability direction to the BC Utilities Commission. The direction aims to provide customers with financial certainty during unpredictable economic times while ensuring BC Hydro continues to deliver reliable, affordable power.
The BC Utilities Commission issued orders as required by this direction on March 26, 2025, establishing a 3.75 per cent annual rate increase for each of the next two years. These stable and predictable rates will enable BC Hydro to continue to build the critical infrastructure and supply needed to strengthen B.C.’s economy, while maintaining rate increases below cumulative inflation for the seventh consecutive year. Our cumulative rate increases between 2017/18 and 2026/27 will be 12.4 per cent below cumulative inflation.
Beginning April 1, electricity bills will increase by 3.75 per cent – or about $3.75 per month for the average residential customer.
To support customers during challenging times, BC Hydro and the Province have expanded initiatives such as the Customer Crisis Fund, which now provides nearly $2 million in additional support to households experiencing temporary financial hardship. Flexible payment options, equal payment plans, and conservation programs are also available to help manage energy costs. With new rate options like time-of-day pricing and an optional flat rate launching on April 1, 2025, BC Hydro continues to prioritize customer choice, while providing customers with additional options to save money.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
Email: media@bchydro.com
Phone: 604 928 6468