Power Smart—A Legacy of Success

By Kari Kylo, BC Hydro Power Smart

Over the years, Power Smart has become a household name, but many British Columbians don’t know Power Smart's legacy stretches back almost two decades.

In 1989 the province experienced an increase in electricity demand and a limited supply of electricity. This led to the launch of Power Smart, which encompassed several programs across all market sectors. By the mid-1990s the Power Smart brand enjoyed a 95 per cent public awareness level and strong public support.

In early 2000 a target was set of 3,600 gigawatt hours/year of electricity savings over ten years. The result? In total, through its programs for residential, commercial and industrial customers, Power Smart saves more than 4,300 GWh annually, which represents enough electricity to service all the homes and businesses in Surrey, Victoria, Courtenay, Vernon and Cranbrook each year.

Today, 800,000-plus BC Hydro customers participate in Power Smart programs. Through education, incentives and changes in construction standards and regulations, Power Smart has taken a leadership role in creating a more energy-efficient province, while saving customers money and helping the environment.

Power Smart continues to set ambitious targets for energy savings in the coming years. Power Smart programs are helping BC Hydro reach its corporate goal of acquiring 50 per cent of BC's incremental resource needs through conservation by 2020.

To learn more about Power Smart’s residential programs such as mail-in rebates, the refrigerator buy-back program, ENERGY STAR windows PST exemption, and Power Smart New Homes visit www.bchydro.com/powersmart.