Want to reduce your reliance on BC Hydro? Here's How

Residential solar power systems enable you to generate your own electricity, enabling you to reduce–and even eliminate–your reliance on our provincial utility, BC Hydro.

Currently, people pay BC Hydro to supply their homes with electricity. But you can now do this yourself by hiring a solar panel installation service to create your very own solar energy system. Once your system is up and running, the amount you need to buy from the hydro company will decrease. You’ll see it reflected in your energy bills, paying less each month.

BC Hydro even encourages homeowners to generate their own electricity by offering to work collaboratively in a programme called Net Metering. The way it works is thus: when your solar system makes more energy than your household uses, BC Hydro will apply a credit for the excess. You’ll see this credit on your next hydro bill. During months when you need more that you’re able to generate, you’ll pay BC Hydro for the amount you use, like normal. Then, on your ‘anniversary date’, if you still have credits on your bill, BC Hydro will pay you for the excess you’ve generated.

This arrangement is a fantastic way to start building up a residential solar power system for your own home. Since we design these systems to grow with your needs, you can start with what your budget allows, then steadily add to your systems as your needs for electricity grow (perhaps due to adding new family members, new housing additions, or purchasing new appliances/equipment, switching to an electric car, etc.).

Ideally, you aim to generate as much energy as you use. We call this reaching net zero. You have the choice to disconnect from the utility company and rely completely on your own system and battery back-ups (as happens in rural situations). However, in most cases it is still beneficial to be hooked up to the grid so you can grab electricity here and there as needed. A residential solar power system will reduce your reliance on BC Hydro, but you can still dip into their supply when necessary.

Additionally, as a bonus this month, the BC government has announced new rebates for those looking to install a solar power system. Find all the details here.

There are a lot of important calculations involved and factors to consider when custom designing a solar energy system, so it’s wise to stick with professional solar panel installation service providers.

NetZero Solar helps homeowners reduce their reliance on BC Hydro, protect themselves against rising energy rates and eliminate costly energy bills. Contact us today to get a free quote. 250-516-5767