BC Hydro launches program to help coronavirus-affected customers with their bills
VANCOUVER -
BC Hydro is implementing a program to help people pay their bills if they’re affected by the novel coronavirus.
The Crown corporation says British Columbians are facing a variety of financial pressures related to the COVID-19 pandemic, as some workplaces close or reduce staffing levels.
BC Hydro said it also expects increased power usage as more people stay home amid health officials’ requests that people take social distancing measures.
Under the new program, customers will be able to defer bill payments or arrange a payment plan with no penalty.
BC Hydro says some customers could also be eligible for grants of up to $600 under its Customer Crisis Fund, if facing power disconnection due to job loss, illness or loss of a family member.
The company says it has taken precautions to keep power running by isolating key facilities, including its control centre, and by increasing its cleaning schedule.
It has also closed its walk-in customer service desks to reduce risk from face-to-face contact and suspended all non-essential business travel, public meetings and site tours.
Related News
France nuclear power stations to limit energy output due to high river temps
PARIS - The high temperature warning has come early this year but will affect fewer nuclear power plants. High temperatures could halve nuclear power production at plants along France's Rhone River this week.
Output restrictions are expected at two nuclear plants in eastern France due to high temperature forecasts, nuclear operator EDF said. It comes several days ahead of a similar warning that was made last year but will affect fewer plants.
The hot weather is likely to halve the available power supply from the 3.6 GW Bugey plant from 13 July and the 2.6 GW Saint Alban plant from 16 July,…
