Electricity rates will change on January 1, 2026, to help meet growing customer demand

Dec 11, 2025

Rate changes reflect the rising cost to purchase power

KELOWNA, B.C.—December 11, 2025: FortisBC Inc. (FortisBC) electricity customers will see a 3.63 per cent general rate increase as of January 1, 2026. For an average residential customer who uses about 825 kilowatt hours of electricity per month, this will be around $5.35 more on their monthly bill. Changes to individual bills will vary based on use. This rate change was reviewed and approved by the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC), ensuring rates have been set in a fair and transparent manner.

“We know energy costs matter to our customers, and we’re here to help,” said Michelle Carman, vice-president of customer service and external communications. “Our team is here to provide customers with tips, tools and support, answer any questions about their bill and advise on ways to reduce their energy use.”

As a regulated utility, FortisBC applies to the BCUC each year to set electricity rates for the following year. This annual review and approval process ensures electricity rates reflect the cost of providing safe, reliable service, from generating and purchasing power through to maintaining and improving the electricity grid that delivers energy to homes and businesses.

A significant driver of the rate change in 2026 is the increased cost of purchasing electricity. In addition to generating power from its four hydroelectric generating facilities, FortisBC purchases a portion of its requirements through long-term contracts with BC Hydro and other producers, and from the wholesale market. To help offset costs, FortisBC continually monitors where it sources its power based on price and what’s required to meet customers’ needs, and sells any excess power it has generated back to the market.

FortisBC understands that energy costs are an important consideration in household and business budgets. Customers who have questions about their bill or energy use are encouraged to reach out. FortisBC offers a number of low-cost solutions for customers, and no-cost energy savings programs for customers with qualifying incomes. It also has a number of programs and rebates to help customers save energy and FortisBC’s customer service team can answer billing questions, share energy savings tips and offer payment plan options that fit individual needs. Customers can reach out by phone at 1-866-436-7847, by email at [email protected] or through chat on FortisBC’s website.

For more information about electricity rates, visit fortisbc.com/electricityrates. For more information on rebates, saving energy and ways to help lower power bills, visit fortisbc.com/saveenergy.

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