Use of smart devices in homes can be an easy way to hit 'Peak Saver' targets from BC Hydro, and earn bill credits this winter. (Dreamstime)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

power usage

‘Peak Saver’ program re-opens enrollment for fall and winter seasons

Sep 23, 2025 | 11:46 AM

NANAIMO — Saving on electricity bills over the peak fall and winter seasons is the goal of a returning program through BC Hydro.

The utility’s Peak Saver program offers credits on bills when home habits are changed to using higher-intensity power items during off-peak times.

Spokesperson Susie Rieder said registration in the past has been extremely strong, particularly for those using automated participation through smart devices like thermostats.

“We have almost 131,000 participants in the program, and about 79 per cent of participants who have these connected devices in the automated participation, said they don’t even notice when events are taking place.”

Different incentives are available for various smart devices, including thermostats, car chargers and home batteries.

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People without smart devices can also take part and participate manually by setting a target for electricity savings and being rewarded with a bill credit if they meet the mark.

Registration for this season’s program opened this week.

Rieder adds home heating or the use of larger appliances such as ovens over long periods of time really add up.

“Heating costs can increase by about five per cent for every degree above 20 degrees Celsius. Doing things like delaying your laundry and dishwashing until after the event, using small appliances like slow cookers, toaster ovens and pressure cookers and also just easy things like turning off unnecessary lights.”

More information on the program is available on the BC Hydro website.

— with files from Jon de Roo, 97.3 The Eagle

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