How it works
Richmond's smart thermostat offer isn't a rebate you apply for after buying — BC Hydro ships the device free to eligible homes. It targets electric baseboard heat, where a programmed schedule has the biggest impact.
No purchase price, no receipt to submit — the thermostat ships once you're approved.
The offer targets baseboard-heated homes specifically, where scheduling has the biggest impact on the bill.
Who qualifies
- You own or rent a home in Richmond that currently heats with electric baseboards
- Your unit doesn't already have a compatible smart thermostat installed
- You're a BC Hydro account holder at the service address
What it doesn't cover
This offer skips gas, oil, and heat-pump homes in Richmond — a smart thermostat there is a retail purchase that still pays off through scheduling. Renters on electric baseboard heat can generally apply without a landlord.
How to claim it
- Check that your Richmond home heats with electric baseboards, then see your full picture with the free rebate assessment
- Sign up through BC Hydro's electric baseboard thermostat offer
- Install the thermostat yourself, or have your HVAC contractor set it up during another visit
- Set your schedule — lower temperatures overnight and while you're out are where the real savings come from
Find an installer in Richmond
If you're pairing the thermostat with other HVAC work, browse HVAC contractors serving Richmond in our installer directory.
Common questions
How do I get a free smart thermostat in Richmond?
BC Hydro's electric baseboard offer covers a free smart thermostat for eligible Richmond homes, as long as your home currently heats with electric baseboards. BC Hydro ships the thermostat directly once you sign up through their electric baseboard offer — there's no purchase or mail-in receipt required.
Does the Richmond smart thermostat offer work if I heat with gas or a heat pump?
No. This particular free-thermostat offer is tied to electric baseboard heating specifically. If you're on gas, oil, or already have a heat pump, a smart thermostat still helps with scheduling and setbacks, but you'd buy one at retail rather than through this program.
Other rebates in Richmond
Next steps
View all Richmond rebate programs → or check BC Hydro's official site → for the current source of truth.