BC Hydro announced today that it is introducing a COVID-19 Relief Fund that will provide bill credits to its residential and small business customers hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under this new program, residential customers that have lost their job or are unable to work will be able to apply to receive a one-time bill credit of three times their average monthly bill amount.

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That amounts to around $135 in savings for the average apartment dweller and $335 for the average single-family home.

Small business customers that have had to close their business as a result of measures implemented to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 will also be able to apply to have their electricity costs waived for up to three months.

"We recognize the financial stress many of our customers are facing after losing their job or having to close their business as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Chris O'Riley, BC Hydro President and Chief Executive Officer. 

"We hope that not having to worry about their electricity costs for a few months will help provide some temporary relief during these challenging times."

Eligible residential customers will be able to apply for the COVID-19 Relief Fund by the end of next week and small business customers will be able to apply starting April 14. 

Customers have until June 30, 2020 to apply for relief.

In addition to the COVID-19 Relief Fund, BC Hydro announced a COVID-19 Customer Assistance Program. 

The program provides customers the option to defer bill payments or arrange for flexible payment plans with no penalty. 

To discuss payment options, BC Hydro customers are encouraged to call 1 800 BCHYDRO (1 800 224 9376).

For more information on the COVID-19 Relief Fund, visit bchydro.com/covid19relief.