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By Victor Kaisar

Heat Wave

BC Hydro expecting significant increase in electricity demand as temperatures soar

Aug 23, 2025 | 10:39 AM

VANCOUVER — BC Hydro is expecting there to be a significant increase in electricity demand as much of British Columbia undergoes a spell of warmer than normal temperatures this weekend and beyond.

While temperatures are expected to be in the mid to high 30s in several regions, BC Hydro says its “renewable and reliable hydroelectric system” is fully equipped to meet the increased demand as people use air conditioners and fans to keep cool.

According to BC Hydro, electricity use is only projected to reach about three-quarters of the levels typically seen during the coldest days of the year.

“With temperatures soaring, we’re expecting an uptick in electricity use as customers try to stay comfortable,” said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. “Our system is built to handle these spikes in demand, and we’re encouraging customers to take simple steps to conserve energy and stay safe during the heat.”

BC Hydro says it saw peak hourly electricity demand – the hour customers use the most electricity – rise to 8,600 megawatts on Aug. 12, breaking the previous record of 8,500 megawatts set in June 2021 during the heat dome.

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It also notes people looking for ways to save money while keeping cool should consider things like:

• Closing the drapes and blinds: Shading windows can block out up to 65 per cent of the heat.
• Shutting doors and windows: If the temperature outside is warmer than inside, keep doors and windows closed to keep the cooler air in and the warm air out.
• Using a fan: Running a fan nine hours a day over the summer costs just $7.
• Choosing ENERGY STAR: Opt for a window AC unit as opposed to portable units, as they are twice as energy efficient – especially if they are ENERGY STAR certified. ENERGY STAR models use about 30 to 40 per cent less power than standard units.