BC Hydro: Powering British Columbia
British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority (BC Hydro) is a Crown corporation that provides electricity to approximately 95% of British Columbia's population. The company has been a key player in the province's economic and social development since its inception in 1961, and continues to play a vital role in British Columbia's future.
Renewable Energy Leader
BC Hydro is a leader in renewable energy generation, with over 90% of the electricity it produces coming from clean, renewable sources. The company has been investing in renewable energy for decades, and its portfolio now includes hydroelectric, wind, biomass, and solar power projects. BC Hydro's renewable energy investments have not only helped to reduce the province's greenhouse gas emissions, but have also created jobs and stimulated economic growth.
Affordable Electricity
BC Hydro provides some of the most affordable electricity in North America. The company's rates are regulated by the British Columbia Utilities Commission, which ensures that BC Hydro recovers its costs without making an excessive profit. BC Hydro's low rates have helped to make British Columbia an attractive place to live, work, and invest.
Customer Service
BC Hydro is committed to providing excellent customer service. The company has a team of dedicated customer service representatives who are available to help customers with their questions and concerns. BC Hydro also offers a variety of online tools and resources that customers can use to manage their accounts and learn about the company's services.
Hydroelectric Power
Hydroelectricity is the largest source of electricity in British Columbia, accounting for over 90% of the electricity generated in the province. BC Hydro operates a system of 28 hydroelectric dams and generating stations, which provide reliable and affordable electricity to British Columbians. BC Hydro's hydroelectric dams also provide flood control and irrigation benefits.
Wind Power
Wind power is the second-largest source of electricity in British Columbia, accounting for about 5% of the total electricity generated in the province. BC Hydro operates a growing portfolio of wind farms, located in areas with high wind resources. Wind power is a clean and renewable source of energy that helps to reduce BC Hydro's greenhouse gas emissions.
Biomass Power
Biomass power is the third-largest source of electricity in British Columbia, accounting for about 3% of the total electricity generated in the province. BC Hydro operates a number of biomass power plants, which use wood waste and other organic materials to generate electricity. Biomass power is a clean and renewable source of energy that helps to reduce BC Hydro's reliance on fossil fuels.
Solar Power
Solar power is the fourth-largest source of electricity in British Columbia, accounting for about 2% of the total electricity generated in the province. BC Hydro operates a number of solar power projects, located in areas with high solar resources. Solar power is a clean and renewable source of energy that helps to reduce BC Hydro's greenhouse gas emissions.
Transmission and Distribution
BC Hydro owns and operates a vast network of transmission and distribution lines, which deliver electricity to customers throughout the province. The company's transmission system is essential for moving electricity from remote generating facilities to population centers. The company's distribution system is responsible for delivering electricity to homes, businesses, and other customers.
Energy Efficiency
BC Hydro is a leader in energy efficiency, and offers a variety of programs and incentives to help customers reduce their energy consumption. The company's energy efficiency programs have helped to reduce the demand for electricity, which has helped to keep rates low and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Rates
BC Hydro's rates are regulated by the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC). The BCUC is an independent regulatory body that ensures that BC Hydro recovers its costs without making an excessive profit. BC Hydro's rates are typically lower than the average rates in North America.
Comparisons to Other Utilities
BC Hydro is one of the most efficient and reliable utilities in Canada. The company's rates are lower than the average rates in North America, and its customer service is consistently rated as excellent. BC Hydro is also a leader in renewable energy generation, with over 90% of its electricity coming from clean, renewable sources.
|---|---|---|
| Hydroelectric | 90% | 28 |
| Wind | 5% | 25 |
| Biomass | 3% | 10 |
| Solar | 2% | 5 |
