The B.C. government is offering relief for BC Hydro customers who have lost income because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Energy Minister Bruce Ralston that will be in the form of a three month break on their bills, saying that will not have to be paid back.

“Residential customers who have lost their jobs or who are unable to work as a result of COVID-19 will receive a bill credit of three time their average monthly bill,” Ralston said.

He says the average residential customer will save about $477.

“The calculation is an average of the bill over the previous year. In fact, during the summer since many people’s bill tends to decline, the bill may carry someone a little bit further than three months,” he added. “Maybe three-and-a-half months, or four months even.”

Small businesses that have had to close will get a three-month break on their Hydro bills as well, while major industries that have had to lay off staff can get half of their utility bills deferred for up to three months.

“Electricity is one of the largest operating costs for these businesses.” Ralston added. “Repayment for the industries deferring bill payment will occur according to a prescribed plan, with the first payment not due until September 1st.”

As well, starting today, BC Hydro rates are being reduced by one percent. The rate reduction was requested last August and will reduce the average residential customer’s annual electricity costs by up to $16. Annual hydro costs for commercial customers will be reduced by up to $715 and industrial customers by up to $230,000.

People will have until the end of June to apply for relief, with Ralston noting the application process is still being finalized, but it should be open for residents by the end of next week.

The entire relief program is expected to cost about $90 million.