Electricity cost in BC, Canada can vary depending on several factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore how electricity cost is calculated and what you can do to reduce your electricity bills.
It is important to understand how electricity cost in BC, Canada is calculated because it helps you, the consumers, make informed decisions about your electricity usage and costs. By understanding how the cost of electricity is calculated, you can take extra steps to reduce your electricity bills, choose the best rate plan for your needs, and make more sustainable choices about your energy usage.
How is electricity measured?
Electricity is measured as you draw from the power grid. It flows from the supply lines and through the electrical meter. As electricity flows through a conductor an electromagnetic field is created.
The strength of the electromagnetic field is directly dependent on the amount of electricity being used. The greater the strength of the field the faster the meter spins. Or, the faster the digital meter computes. This is how energy companies can tell how much power you’ve used during a certain period.
Electrical use is measured in Watts. We are billed for electricity use in kWh (kilowatts per hour).
kWh = using 1000 Watts of electricity for 1 hour. The cost of a kWh is currently 6.9 to 10.34 cents – but this figure consistently increases over time.
1 kWh = using 10x 100W light bulbs for 1 hour.
1 kWh = running a 1000W vacuum for 1 hour.
How does British Columbia charge for electricity?
How much does electricity cost in BC, Canada? For you to be able to understand how your electricity cost is calculated, you need to know how British Columbia charges for electricity.
We have a two-level rate system in BC. As of 2022:
- Step 1 rate (up to 1,350 kWh) was 9.39 cents per kWh.
- The Step 2 rate (above 1,350 kWh) was 14.08 cents per kWh.
Up to about 2006, the rate across the board was 6.55 cents per kWh. Although we have low rates in BC, and most likely always will be compared to the rest of the world, electricity rates will continue to increase.
BC Hydro now applies other charges on top of electricity use charges, the bills we receive are definitely on the increase
Here is how BC Hydro charges for residential power.
How can I reduce my electricity cost in BC?
There are numerous ways to reduce electricity cost in BC, Canada. The simplest is to just turn the power off whenever possible. Just to name a few we can help you with:
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Timers
- Dimmers
- LED or compact fluorescent bulbs and
- High-efficiency fluorescent ballasts are another solution.
- You can also install energy-efficient windows and insulation.
Read this blog : 16 Ways to Conserve Energy & Reduce your Electric Bill
Another option is to go solar. Install a “grid-tie” backup power system in your home or business and BC Hydro will pay you for the power you produce
Here is more information on BC Hydro and solar rebates
Installing energy-efficient ballasts
Energy-efficient ballasts are a great thing to do for commercial buildings. The energy savings average 40-70%, combined with the rebates now offered by BC Hydro will pay for the entire project in 18-30 months. After that, the savings go directly to the bottom line.
Why not contact us today to see how we can save you money?
How is BC reducing our energy costs?
Our population is increasing, energy use is increasing and electricity rates are increasing. The most efficient solution, from an electrical standpoint, is to build mega-project hydroelectric dams in out-of-the-way places. Then build another one on the same river a kilometer below it.
British Columbians have been building dams since the turn of the century. The period of greatest activity occurred in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s when BC pursued an aggressive program of large-scale dam construction.
Hydroelectric power production (for domestic use and export) was the major purpose of these large-scale dams. Most British Columbians embraced dam construction in the post-war period as a positive step toward economic prosperity.
That began to change in the 1970s as residents witnessed some of the environmental and social costs of dams. The decline of fish stocks and the permanent drowning of productive farmland, valley-bottom forest, scenic canyons, and (in some cases) entire towns fueled a growing public opposition to new dams.
During the 1970s and ’80s, grass-roots lobbying blocked the construction of new dams on the Skagit, Stikine, and Peace rivers.
The environment and energy production
Recently, BC‘s provincial government responded to public opinion by legislatively protecting important salmon rivers against future dams under the Fish Protection Act.
In addition, BC has embraced two important programs — the “BC Heritage Rivers System” and the “Canadian Heritage Rivers System” — which officially commemorate BC rivers that represent outstanding values of provincial and national significance.
These values include history, culture, economy, recreation, and ecology.
Programs are in place for smaller private projects and many such projects are underway. As a homeowner or business owner you can do several things to reduce your energy consumption and costs.
Ready to save money on electricity?
While the cost of electricity in BC is relatively low compared to other parts of Canada, it can still be a significant expense for many households. By reducing energy consumption and taking advantage of energy-saving programs and incentives, you can help lower your electricity costs and save money in the long run.
We want more electricity and we don’t want to pay more for it. Why not get in touch with pacific Star Electric for a free quote and to see how we can save you money?
