BC Net Metering Ended: The 2026 Solar Rate
Short answer: Yes. As of July 1, 2026, BC Hydro's net metering rate (RS 1289) is closed to new customers. New solar homes go on the self-generation rate (RS 2289), which pays 10 cents per kWh for power you export, each billing cycle. If you were already on net metering, you stay on it until 10 years after your start date.
What changed
| Before (RS 1289) | Now (RS 2289) | |
|---|---|---|
| Exported power | Banked as kWh credits | Paid 10 cents/kWh |
| Settlement | Yearly | Each bill |
| Available to | Existing customers | New customers |
How to size solar now
Because exports earn a flat 10 cents, the best value is in power you use yourself. Size your system to your yearly use instead of filling the roof. A battery lets you store daytime solar for the evening.
Rebates still available
- Solar: $1,000 per kW, up to $5,000, and no more than 50% of cost.
- Battery: $500 per kWh, up to $5,000 if you enroll in Peak Saver within 14 calendar days of the in-service date (no exceptions), or up to $1,500 paired with solar without Peak Saver.
- Your contractor must be a Home Performance Contractor Network (HPCN) member, and your self-generation application must be accepted before you install.
What to do next
- Get your last 12 months of use from your BC Hydro account.
- Get quotes from HPCN member contractors.
- If you add a battery, put a reminder for Peak Saver enrollment in the first 14 days.
Questions people ask
Did BC end net metering?
For new customers, yes, on July 1, 2026. Existing net metering customers stay on it until 10 years after their start date.
How much does BC Hydro pay for solar exports now?
10 cents per kWh on RS 2289, credited every billing cycle.
What's the Peak Saver deadline for the battery rebate?
You must enroll the battery in Peak Saver within 14 calendar days of the in-service date to get the higher rebate. BC Hydro says no exceptions.
See your city's rebates
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See your city's rebates →Sources, checked September 26, 2026: BC Hydro self-generation rate updates · BC Hydro solar and battery rebates · BC Hydro solar and battery rebate terms (July 29, 2026).
