VANCOUVER: British Columbia could set a new all-time summer electricity demand record this week as hot weather drives increased use of air conditioning across the province.
BC Hydro expects electricity demand to remain elevated through the week and could surpass the current summer peak record of 8,652 megawatts, set in August 2025, if temperatures continue to climb. With temperatures currently forecast to reach low to mid 30s today through Wednesday, electricity demand is expected to approach record levels, with peaks ranging from 8,200 to 8,800 megawatts depending on weather conditions. Even with the hot temperatures, overall electricity use remains well below the peak levels typically seen during the coldest winter periods.
The potential record reflects a broader shift in how British Columbians are using electricity during the summer. Nearly 70 per cent of households now have some form of air conditioning, making cooling a significant driver of summer electricity demand. As periods of hot weather become more frequent, more British Columbians are relying on air conditioners to stay comfortable.
To help customers stay cool while managing energy costs, BC Hydro is currently offering limited-time rebates of $50 on select ENERGY STAR® window and portable air conditioners through participating retailers across B.C.
"Air conditioning has become a common household appliance across British Columbia, and when temperatures rise, we see the impact on electricity demand almost immediately," said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. "As more customers look for ways to stay comfortable during hot weather, BC Hydro is also helping with rebates on energy-efficient air conditioners and air purifiers that can help keep homes cool and improve indoor air quality."
Indoor air quality remains a priority during wildfire season
In addition to staying cool, many British Columbians are taking steps to improve indoor air quality when wildfire smoke is present. According to BC Hydro's Residential End-Use Survey, the use of portable air purifiers has increased by 114 per cent since 2020, reflecting growing interest in maintaining healthy indoor environments during wildfire season.
During active wildfire seasons, smoke from forest fires can become the largest source of air pollution in British Columbia, making indoor air quality a growing concern for many households. A recent BC Hydro survey1 found that while temperature comfort remains the top health-related benefit British Columbians seek from air management products (38 per cent), improved air quality is a close second at 30 per cent.
After years of increasingly challenging wildfire seasons, air quality is no longer a concern limited to those with allergies or respiratory conditions. It has become a mainstream household priority. The concern is particularly pronounced in the Southern Interior, where 40 per cent of respondents identified improved air quality as the most important benefit when choosing an air management product, compared with the provincial average of 30 per cent.
Tips to stay comfortable, and save energy and money
To help customers stay comfortable while managing both indoor temperature and indoor air quality at the same time, BC Hydro recommends:
- Taking advantage of rebates: BC Hydro is offering limited time retail rebates until August 21, 2026, including:
- $50 off select ENERGY STAR® window air conditioners and high-efficiency portable air conditioners.
- $30 off select ENERGY STAR® air purifiers.
- Shopping 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.
- Blocking out heat: Close blinds and drapes to reduce 60 per cent of heat entering your home.
- Keeping cool air in: Shut windows and doors when it is hotter outside than inside.
- Maintaining your equipment: Replace air conditioning and air purifier filters regularly to improve performance.
- Using fans: Fans cost very little to run and can help reduce the need for air conditioning. Running one for nine hours a day costs about $7 over the summer.
For more information on rebates, visit bchydro.com/deals.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 928 6468
[1] Online survey of 800 British Columbians through Angus Reid Forum, 2026.