Updates to a BC Hydro policy looks to make the cost of connections more affordable for customers.
The BC Utilities Commission has approved updates to Hydro’s Distribution Extension Policy, which sets out how costs are allocated between new and current non-industrial customers for new connections to Hydro’s system.
With the policy having not been updated since 2008, BC Hydro says they applied for updates in June last year as customer connection requests have gone up by over one-third in recent years.
“In recent years, municipalities, home builders and other stakeholders have been advocating for changes that would reduce costs and improve predictability,” said Hydro.
“Under the current policy, new or upgraded connections that require system upgrades must be completely paid for upfront by the initial customer that makes the request.”
Hydro says through the updates, the policy would not only get rid of system improvement costs for all new customers but also increase Hydro’s contribution to offset extension costs.
The hope is with these changes, it lowers costs of connections for customers, speed up connection timelines, and better balance cost sharing.
Along with updating the policy, the Utilities Commission also approved changes to lower electrification barriers in Non-Integrated Area Communities.
The updates take effect July 5 this year.
