VanPlex Plexperts · BC Multiplex Resource
BC Hydro
Indexed on VanPlex Plexperts — the BC multiplex civic-programs and reference directory.
BC Hydro is the electric utility owned by the Government of British Columbia. It serves about 95% of the province. New connections, service upgrades, and metering for multiplexes are handled through BC Hydro and reviewed by the BC Utilities Commission.
Why multiplex builders care
A 4-6 unit multiplex usually outgrows the old single-family 200A service, so the build needs a new or upgraded BC Hydro connection.
A 4-6 unit multiplex usually outgrows the old single-family 200A service, so the build needs a new or upgraded BC Hydro connection. Two rules drive this. First, since April 1, 2025 BC Hydro no longer gives a single master meter to a new multi-occupancy building — each unit needs its own meter (secondary suites are the exception). That changes your meter base, your service size, and your electrical room layout. Second, the connection runs on BC Hydro's design and construction schedule. Submit the request through MyHydro at building-permit stage, not at framing, so the utility work isn't the thing holding up occupancy.
Key documents
The actual PDFs, programs, and forms you'll use.
Electrical service connections (overview)
Entry point for express, design, and large-load connection requests. Requests are submitted and tracked through MyHydro.
How design connections work
The design path for multi-unit and complex projects, where BC Hydro provides an estimated timeline once the scope is set.
EV charger rebates for multi-unit residential buildings
Retrofit-only EV Ready rebates: up to $3,000 for a plan, up to $600 per stall ($120,000 cap), chargers up to $14,000, $137,000 combined maximum per complex. Buildings must be 5+ units and built no later than Aug 31, 2022. New builds are not eligible.
CleanBC residential rebates
Heat pump, electrical service upgrade, and other residential rebate programs run by BC Hydro.
How to use it
- 1
Create a MyHydro profile and start the connection request online; you and your electrical contractor submit documents and approve charges through the portal.
- 2
For a 4-6 unit build, use the design connection path — BC Hydro gives an estimated timeline once project scope is confirmed.
- 3
Plan for individual metering on a new multiplex. Since April 1, 2025, new multi-occupancy buildings get a meter per unit, not one master meter (secondary suites excepted).
- 4
Submit at building-permit stage, not at framing, so the utility schedule does not gate occupancy.
- 5
EV Ready rebates are retrofit-only — a new multiplex built to Vancouver EV-ready bylaws will not qualify, so budget that wiring as project cost.
Recent updates
2025-04-01
New multi-occupancy buildings (and new residential units within them) now require individual metering per unit instead of a single master meter; secondary suites are excepted. Approved in BC Hydro's 2024 Rate Design Application.
Read more2025-07-05
Updated Distribution Extension Policy took effect after BCUC approval (March 5, 2025), removing system-improvement costs for most new customers and raising BC Hydro's contribution to extension costs — aimed at lowering connection cost and speeding timelines for housing.
Read more2026-07-15
EV Ready plan rebate applicants must apply for pre-approval and then final approval within 9 months of pre-approval confirmation.
Read moreOfficial links
Go to the source.
Related resources
BC Bill 44 — Housing Statutes Amendment Act
The November 2023 provincial law that requires every BC municipality to allow multiplex on lots previously zoned single-family. The legal foundation for every BC multiplex.
BC Energy Step Code
BC's tiered energy-efficiency standard for new construction. Step 4 is the multiplex sweet spot for CMHC MLI Select bonuses; Step 5 approaches Passive House.
BC Housing
Provincial Crown agency that licenses every BC residential builder and runs the mandatory 2-5-10 new home warranty system.
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