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Early May Heatwave Sets B.C. Power-Use Record for the Month

BC Hydro says its grid can handle the surge, urging shoppers to use limited-time rebates.

The first days of May have been unseasonably warm, leading to lots of people getting outdoors and peak hourly demand for B.C. Hydro on Monday.
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Overview

  • BC Hydro recorded roughly 7,600 megawatts of demand for May, with the single-hour peak landing Monday.
  • The utility links the spike to heavy use of air conditioners and fans, plus more air purifiers used during wildfire season.
  • Nearly 70 percent of B.C. households now have some form of air conditioning, reflecting rapid adoption in recent years.
  • Environment and Climate Change Canada expects cooler weather by Wednesday, with Metro Vancouver highs easing from about 30°C toward 22°C.
  • To trim bills and curb demand, BC Hydro is offering instant rebates through Aug. 21, including $50 off select ENERGY STAR window and portable ACs and $30 off some air purifiers at major retailers.