With more than 230,000 electric vehicles (EVs) now on B.C. roads, BC Hydro is taking the next step to make charging easier and more affordable by launching a new Request for Proposals (RFP) for smart charging technology through its Power Smart 2.0 plan.

 The RFP will bring in technology partners to expand BC Hydro’s Peak Saver program, allowing EV drivers to opt in to automatic, smart charging in exchange for rewards of up to $100 annually. Using technology already built into most vehicles, BC Hydro will be able to shift charging to times when electricity demand is lower, like overnight, meaning customers can participate without buying new equipment.

 “Power Smart 2.0 is about helping people and businesses take control of their energy use while building a more efficient and resilient electricity system for B.C.,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “By expanding tools, incentives, and innovative programs, we’re making it easier to save energy, lower costs, and reduce emissions, supporting a cleaner future for communities across the province. By using tools already built into homes and vehicles, customers can automatically reduce energy use and costs while supporting a cleaner, more efficient system.”

 EV ownership is growing quickly in B.C., helping reduce emissions and fuel costs, but it is also increasing demand on the electricity system, especially during busy evening hours when many people charge their vehicles at the same time. Today, most EVs are not connected to programs that help manage when charging happens.

 By adding EV telematics to the Peak Saver program, it makes it easy for customers to shift their charging to earn rewards. Following the RFP process and once technology partners are in place, EV drivers will be able to opt in to the voluntary program, which rewards customers for using electricity at less busy times of day. For those who participate, BC Hydro will be able to automatically shift charging to off-peak periods, such as overnight, helping reduce pressure on the grid from time-to-time while making better use of B.C.’s clean electricity.

 The program is simple and flexible, with no extra charging equipment needed. Customers do not need to schedule anything themselves and can override charging at any time if needed. In return, participants receive incentives, such as annual rewards of up to $100. By making smart charging easy and accessible, this initiative helps more drivers save money while supporting a reliable and efficient electricity system.

 “This RFP is about making EV ownership simpler and more rewarding for our customers, while helping us manage growing electricity demand,” said Charlotte Mitha, President and CEO of BC Hydro. “It’s a win-win – our customers save money and the grid can run more efficiently.”

 This initiative is part of BC Hydro’s new $1 billion Power Smart 2.0 plan, which features expanded programs and incentives, from Peak Saver rewards and EV smart charging offers to instant in-store rebates of up to $200 on energy-efficient products like ENERGY STAR® appliances, portable air conditioners, air purifiers and air fryers, designed to help customers save money while using electricity more efficiently.

 With one of North America’s cleanest electricity systems, B.C. is well positioned to lead in smart EV charging. This RFP is an important step to make EV growth easier, more affordable and more sustainable for residents. The RFP will launch on May 28 and close on June 30. BC Hydro looks forward to offering its customer smarter EV charging in early 2027.