Record-breaking electricity demand due to cold weather
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PRINCE GEORGE — Freezing temperatures across B.C. was responsible for record-breaking peak electricity demand last night (Dec.19) – the hour customers use the most electricity.
BC Hydro says the previous record was set on Dec. 27, 2021 when consumption reached 10,762 megawatts. Last night, preliminary analysis found consumption between 5 and 6 p.m. reached over 10,800 megawatts – the highest ever recorded. This was driven by additional heating requirements.
“With more sub-zero temperatures in the coming days, BC Hydro expects demand will remain high and there is the potential to see this latest record fall before the cold snap ends,” said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. “Despite the significant increase, we want to assure our customer that we will continue to be able to meet demand for electricity across the province this winter because of our large integrated hydroelectric system.”
