Registration for smart thermostats begins in a government effort to lower energy costs

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Registration is now open for the province’s residents to receive energy-efficient thermostats through a government initiative.

The free smart thermostat program is part of BC Hydro’s Power Smart 2.0 program. 

According to a press release, it is part of a $1 billion investment until 2029 to help people save energy and reduce hydro costs in households.

BC Hydro has signed agreements with a pair of Canadian smart thermostat providers – Newfoundland-based Mysa and Sinope Technologies out of Quebec – in an effort to keep funds in the country and deliver the devices to customers.

Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, Adrian Dix, said in the release the initiative will make it easier for the province’s residents “to be part of a cleaner more-efficient energy future.”

Dix said: “By partnering with Canadian companies to deliver practical cost-saving technology to households we are helping people take real climate action while saving money at the same time.”

Under the program, which began on Monday, July 6, customers can visit BC Hydro’s website to find out if they are eligible and register via e-mail to be notified when the free smart thermostats will be available in the fall.

Residential customers with electric baseboard-heated homes will be able to order as many as five free smart thermostats, manufactured by Mysa and Sinope, through the company’s online palatforms.

Devices will be sent with shipping at no charge and will be pre-enrolled in BC Hydro’s Peak Saver program, allowing customers to participate once installation is complete.

Participants in Peak Saver will receive an award of up to $100 for income-qualified customers, in exchange for assisting in reducing electricity demand during peak hours. 

This can include lowering temperatures by a few degrees during the winter months. Customers can override at any time, which ensures flexibility and control over temperatures in their home.

BC Hydro’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Charlotte Mitha, says the thermostats are “a simple but powerful way” for residents to manage energy usage while reducing peak demand.

“They give customers better control and insight into their heating temperature settings and electricity use,” said Mitha. “They also make earning Peak Saver rewards automatic each year.”

To learn more about the free thermostats or to find out about eligibility, visit B.C. Hydro’s website.