Managing a commercial strata isn’t easy—and energy costs are only going up. BC Hydro rates have been rising every year, with more hikes coming in 2025 and 2026. And with Time-of-Use (TOU) billing on the way, electricity will cost more during peak hours (like mornings and evenings), when most buildings use the most power.
At the same time, new rules now require most stratas to complete Electrical Planning Reports (EPRs) by December 31, 2026. If your building has 5 or more lots in Langley, Abbotsford, or Surrey, this applies to you.
What’s an EPR—and Why It Matters
An EPR helps you:
- Understand how much electricity your building uses
- Plan for EV chargers, heat pumps, and other electrification upgrades
- Avoid future overloads and expensive upgrades
You can’t ignore it—and the earlier you plan, the more you’ll save.
Here’s the Good News:
BC Hydro offers up to $20,000 in rebates to help you upgrade with:
• Solar power (up to $10,000)
• Battery storage (up to $10,000)
• Incentives for using less power during peak hours (Demand Response programs)
These rebates cover up to 50% of installation costs and help you control future energy bills, meet EPR requirements, and build resilience for your building.
Why Batteries + Solar Work for Stratas
Yes, solar works even in BC! Today’s solar panels are efficient, even on cloudy days. And when paired with a battery energy storage system (ESS), you unlock real advantages:
• Store energy from the sun or from the grid at night
• Use stored energy during expensive peak hours
• Avoid high demand charges
• Keep lights, HVAC, elevators, and security systems running during outages
• Help meet the energy goals set in your EPR
Bottom line: You gain control over your energy use and costs.
Real Savings, Real Support – Thanks to BC Hydro
You may qualify for:
• Solar Rebate: $1,000 per kW (up to $10,000)
• Battery Rebate: $500 per kWh (up to $10,000)
• Demand Response Credits: Earn money by reducing power use during grid stress
You can also access additional support like Energy Opportunity Assessments and Feasibility Studies to help plan upgrades.
Why Stratas Should Act Now
An integrated energy solution isn’t just about ticking boxes. It:
• Cuts your monthly hydro bills
• Keeps power running during blackouts (especially critical in places like Abbotsford with frequent outages)
• Helps you meet and implement EPR requirements
• Lets you manage future EV charging demand without expensive upgrades
• Boosts your building’s appeal to eco-conscious businesses
• Protects property value with sustainable, modern infrastructure
Hanna Energy: Experts in Strata Energy Systems
We’ve helped commercial stratas across the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver prepare for the future with smart energy systems. We provide:
• Custom System Design: Tailored to your building’s size, layout, and energy goals
• Rebate Navigation: We handle BC Hydro paperwork to get your maximum rebates
• EPR-Friendly Planning: Our systems align with what’s recommended in your EPR
• Fast, Safe Installation: With minimal disruption to tenants
• Full Solutions: Solar, battery storage, and intelligent load shifting—all from one trusted team
Don’t Wait—Plan Ahead and Save Big
BC Hydro’s rebates and the EPR deadline offer a rare chance to upgrade your building affordably. With the right energy system in place, you’ll stay compliant, reduce energy bills, and protect your building’s long-term value.
✅ Book a Free Energy Assessment for Your Strata
📞 Call Hanna Energy Inc. at (604) 446-1937
🌐 Visit hannaenergy.ca
We’ll help you plan, save, and power your building smarter.
