BC Hydro has announced important updates to its self-generation program that will impact future solar customers across British Columbia beginning July 1, 2026.
The changes, recently approved by the BC Utilities Commission (BCUC), introduce a new Self-Generation Service Rate (RS2289), replacing the current Net Metering structure (RS1289) for new participants entering the program after the transition date.
At Solos Energy, we know there have been a lot of questions surrounding these changes. In this article, we’re breaking down what’s changing, what current and future solar customers should know, and why solar continues to make strong long-term sense in BC.
What Is Changing With BC Hydro’s Net Metering Program?
Under BC Hydro’s current Net Metering program (RS1289), excess solar energy exported to the grid is banked as electricity credits that can later offset future electricity consumption.
Beginning July 1, 2026, new customers enrolling in BC Hydro’s self-generation program will participate under the new Self-Generation Service Rate (RS2289). Under this updated structure, excess exported energy will instead be credited at a fixed rate of 10¢/kWh.
One important thing remains unchanged:
The electricity your solar system produces is still used within your home or business first — helping reduce the amount of energy you need to purchase from the grid.
For many BC homeowners and businesses, this direct self-consumption continues to be one of the biggest long-term benefits of solar energy.
What Existing BC Hydro Net Metering Customers Should Know
If you already have solar installed and are currently enrolled in BC Hydro’s Net Metering program, there are approved transition provisions intended to provide continuity moving forward.
According to BC Hydro:
- Customers who did not receive a BC Hydro solar rebate may remain on the current Net Metering structure for 10 years from their individual service start date.
- Customers who received a BC Hydro solar rebate will transition to the new Self-Generation structure beginning July 1, 2026, unless they choose to repay the rebate amount to remain on the current program during the grandfathering period.
BC Hydro has stated that affected customers will be contacted directly regarding timelines and available options.
Most importantly, existing solar systems will continue operating normally and continue generating clean energy and energy savings for years to come.
What Future Solar Customers in BC Should Know
For customers installing solar after July 1, 2026, systems will participate under the updated Self-Generation structure.
While the compensation model for exported energy is changing, the core value of solar remains the same: generating your own electricity and reducing the amount of energy you purchase from the grid.
Modern solar systems continue to provide long-term benefits including:
- Lower electricity costs
- Greater energy independence
- Protection from rising utility rates
- Long-term clean energy production
The updated structure also places greater emphasis on thoughtful solar system design and understanding energy usage patterns to maximize on-site energy consumption and long-term value.
That’s why working with an experienced solar installer matters.
Whether your goal is offsetting daytime energy usage, planning for future energy needs, or maximizing long-term savings, our team designs solar systems tailored to how your home or business actually uses power.
New Opportunities for Commercial & Community Solar in BC
Alongside the updated self-generation structure, BC Hydro is also introducing new opportunities for larger-scale and shared solar participation.
One of the biggest additions is the new Community Generation Service (RS2290).
According to BC Hydro, this new structure allows multiple customers to collectively contribute to and benefit from community generating facilities, helping expand access to solar energy for customers who may not otherwise be able to participate directly.
Under this model:
- A community generator builds and operates a shared generating facility
- Monetary credits for excess generation are distributed to participating customers
- Shared facilities can support multiple residential or commercial participants
Examples of future applications could include:
- Multi-unit residential buildings
- Shared commercial developments
- Community solar projects
- Strata and rental properties
Community generation facilities may be sized up to 2 MW, depending on the number and type of participating customers.
This new structure helps create additional pathways for solar adoption across British Columbia.
Does Solar Still Make Sense in BC?
Absolutely.
While utility rate structures and compensation models may evolve over time, the core benefits of solar remain unchanged.
The biggest value of solar has always been the electricity you generate and use directly within your home or business.
Solar continues to offer BC homeowners and businesses:
- Long-term energy savings
- Greater control over electricity costs
- Reduced reliance on the grid
- Clean, renewable energy production for decades
As the industry evolves, proper system sizing and thoughtful design become increasingly important — which is why choosing the right solar partner matters more than ever.
Questions About BC Hydro’s Solar Program Changes?
The Solos Energy team is always happy to help answer questions and provide guidance based on your specific property, energy usage, and long-term goals.
Contact Solos Energy:
250-258-8344
For additional information directly from BC Hydro and the BCUC:
- BC Hydro Self-Generation Program Updates – https://www.bchydro.com/toolbar/about/strategies-plans-regulatory/rate-design/self-generation-rate-updates.html
- BCUC News Release on Approved Changes – https://docs.bcuc.com/documents/NewsRelease/2026/2026-03-24-NEWS-RELEASE-BCUC-Issues-Decision-BCHydro-Net-Metering-Program.pdf
