VANCOUVER: Unusually hot weather across British Columbia pushed electricity demand to about 7,600 megawatts – the highest level ever seen in May, especially this early in the month – as many people turned on air conditioners and fans to stay cool. To help customers manage both comfort and costs during the early heat, BC Hydro is offering limited time rebates on energy efficient cooling and air quality equipment.
Over the past few days, British Columbians have turned to air conditioners and fans to stay comfortable as unseasonably warm temperatures continue across much of the province. Peak hourly demand – the single hour each day when customers use the most electricity – is expected to have peaked on Monday.
While electricity demand will remain above average until temperatures cool on Wednesday, BC Hydro’s clean electricity system is fully equipped to meet the increased demand. Even with this early season surge, overall electricity use remains well below the peak levels typically seen during the coldest winter periods.
Nearly 70 per cent of households now have some form of air conditioning, reflecting a sharp increase in recent years as summers become hotter. At the same time, more people are using air purifiers and other devices to improve indoor air quality during wildfire smoke and pollution events.
To help customers stay comfortable while managing energy use, BC Hydro is offering limited-time retail rebates from May 1 to Aug. 21, 2026. Customers can receive instant savings, including $50 off select ENERGY STAR® window air conditioners and high-efficiency portable units, $30 off select ENERGY STAR® air purifiers and $10 off select WaterSense® certified showerheads.
For air conditioners, in-store rebates are available at Best Buy, Costco, London Drugs, RONA, The Home Depot and Visions Electronics. Online rebates are available at Best Buy and Visions Electronics.
BC Hydro also recommends the following to stay cool and save money:
- Shop smart: Visit the Power Smart Shop for energy-saving appliances and electronic devices like air conditioners, air purifiers and programmable thermostats at shop.bchydro.com.
- Set your air conditioning efficiently: Keep your thermostat at 25°C when you’re home and turn it off when you are away.
- Block out heat: Close blinds and drapes to reduce heat entering your home.
- Keep cool air in: Shut windows and doors when it’s hotter outside than inside.
- Maintain your equipment: Replace air conditioning and air purifier filters regularly to improve performance.
- Use fans: Fans cost very little to run and can help reduce the need for air conditioning.
For more information on rebates and tips, visit bchydro.com/deals.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 926 6468