BC Hydro's Energy Storage Incentive (ESI) program offers businesses enhanced reliability and resilience while reducing strain on the power grid. By storing energy and using it strategically, businesses can lower peak demand charges, maintain operations during outages, and support sustainability by reducing reliance on diesel backup generators.
BC Hydro’s Incentive Offer
To support the adoption of ESS, BC Hydro provides valuable incentives for the purchase, installation, and operation of battery storage systems. Once installed, the system can automatically respond to grid conditions, discharging stored energy to power the facility while easing demand on the grid. The battery then recharges during off-peak hours, optimizing energy efficiency.
Our team here at Commercial Lighting can assist you through the application process and discuss what solutions are best fit for your business and needs.
How the Incentive Works
The incentive amount is based on the nominated battery capacity available for demand flexibility events and is calculated as the lesser of:
- $10,000 per kW nominated.
- $10,000 per kWh/4 nominated.
- 80% of eligible project costs.
Businesses must meet the following criteria to qualify for BC Hydro’s energy storage incentive:
- Be on a general service or irrigation rate under the Electric Tariff.
- Install a new battery (previously purchased or installed systems are ineligible).
- Have an operational smart meter.
- Complete the required net metering or generator interconnection process.
- Ensure the system is non-exporting to the grid.\
- Install and energize an ESS that meets program requirements within 24 months of completing the interconnection study or application process.
- Agree to a 10-year contract to provide demand flexibility services.
- Provide reliable demand flexibility year-round with the following parameters:
- Maximum event duration: 4 hours
- Maximum daily frequency: 2 events
- Minimum hours between events: 5 hours
- Maintain at least 85% of nominated capacity for 85% of demand response events, assessed annually.
- Connect to the BC Hydro software platform via IEEE 2030.5, SCADA, API, or an approved method for receiving event signals.
For more details, learn more about ESI & DERMS here or visit BC Hydro’s website here.
Why Consider Energy Storage?
By participating in BC Hydro’s program, businesses can:
- Boost energy efficiency: Enhance resilience, reduce disruptions, and stabilize the grid while benefiting from financial incentives.
- Cut costs: Lower electricity expenses by effectively managing peak demand charges.
- Go green: Advance sustainability by minimizing reliance on diesel generators.
