2026 B.C. budget needs to protect rebates and incentives that lower energy bills - Clean Energy Canada

As British Columbia prepares to present its 2026 budget, there is growing concern among families about rising energy costs, particularly heating bills that have increased by 28.5% over the past year. Many households, especially those with lower incomes or older homes, struggle to afford upfront costs for energy-efficient upgrades like home retrofits or electric heat pumps, despite their potential to reduce long-term expenses. Clean Energy Canada emphasizes that the upcoming budget must protect and expand CleanBC rebates and incentives, which have been identified as critical tools for lowering household energy costs, reducing pollution, and supporting health and job growth. An independent review of CleanBC highlights the importance of maintaining consistent, predictable programs to avoid investment delays caused by uncertainty. Heat pumps, for example, can significantly reduce annual energy bills compared to traditional heating methods, while electric vehicles (EVs) offer savings on fuel and maintenance. However, upfront costs and program complexity remain barriers for many families. The article calls for the 2026 budget to prioritize affordability