Province, BC Hydro Launch Pilot Program To Cut Energy Costs, Support Housing Density

BC Hydro and the BC Government are teaming up on a Canadian first.

Designed to support the transition from single-family homes to multi-unit residences, the initiative is exploring how full electrification – heating, cooling, EV charging and appliances – can be achieved without the need for more significant electrical service upgrades.

“The potential for this innovative system shows what’s possible when we partner with local technology providers to make clean energy more accessible,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions.

“We’re proud to support made-in-B.C. solutions that reduce emissions, strengthen our grid and lower energy costs for residents.”

At the core of the project is a smart panel developed by Burnaby-based Evectrix.

The device transforms a conventional breaker panel into a “smart hub” that manages real-time energy usage, eliminating the need to upgrade from a 200-amp to a 400-amp service, even in an electrified six-unit development.

BC Hydro president and CEO Chris O’Reiley says the technology pilot is a potential game-changer for accelerating clean-energy adoption in multi-unit housing.

“It not only supports our broader goal of building a more sustainable and efficient electricity system, but it also helps customers avoid the high costs of major electrical upgrades – making densification more accessible, affordable and practical,” he said.

Traditionally, going from single-family homes to duplexes, fourplexes and sixplexes has required significant electrical upgrades.

The smart panel manages load at the suite level, helping avoid over-capacity and provides significant savings. The first project is underway in Vancouver with more to follow.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.