B.C. Hydro preps for high energy demand as cold snap approaches

B.C. Hydro says it is preparing for “near-record-breaking peak loads” later this week as B.C. braces itself for another cold snap.

Electricity use across the province spiked on Sunday and Monday, when temperatures dipped as low as -5 C.

“Freezing temperatures resulted in a 10 per cent increase in overall provincial electricity demand on Feb. 18 and 19 compared to the same days last week,” according to an operational update from B.C. Hydro.

“Demand for electricity is expected to remain high this week as the cold snap continues, and B.C. Hydro is preparing for near-record breaking peak loads,” read the update.

The highest demand for electricity during winter months typically occurs between 4 and 8 p.m. on weekday evenings, which coincides with the time most people return home, turn on the lights and heat, and begin making dinner and doing laundry.

On average, residential electricity use can increase up to 88 per cent during the winter months.

Residents are reminded to keep the thermostat at an ideal temperature of 16 degrees when away from home or sleeping, 18 degrees when cooking or working around the house, and 21 degrees when relaxing.

Other ways to save energy include installing draftproofing and weather stripping around windows and doors to keep warm air in and cold air out, or turning off unnecessary lights and electronics.