New B.C. Premier David Eby announces cost-of-living relief measures

David Eby is announcing cost-of-living relief measures as his first order of business as B.C.’s new premier.

The province says British Columbians will get a one-time cost of living credit on their BC Hydro bill this fall, as well as a new BC Affordability Credit in January, to help offset some expenses.

“People and small businesses across B.C. are feeling the squeeze of global inflation,” Eby said Friday, the same day he was sworn in as the province’s 37th premier. “It’s a time when people need their government to continue to be there for them. That’s why we’re focused on helping people most impacted by the rising costs we’re seeing around the world – giving people a bit of extra credit, especially at a time of year when expenses can be quick to add up.”

BC's 37th Premier is now officially @Dave_Eby.
His first move is measures aimed at affordability. A fall credit for @bchydro customers – $100 residents/$500 biz. In January a credit for low/mid-income earners – up to $410 for family pending on income. #bcpoli @CityNewsVAN

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) November 18, 2022

The BC Hydro credit will be available to all eligible residential and commercial customers, including those who get their power indirectly from the provider through FortisBC or a municipal utility.

The Ministry of Energy says eligible people will receive a $100 credit, while eligible businesses will receive a credit averaging $500.

The BC Affordability Credit will be distributed through the CRA, with the province saying a family of four could receive up to an additional $410 in January. The amounts are dependent on a family or person’s annual salary.

“Look for B.C.’s new Affordability Credit in your bank account in January 2023,” said Eby. “We know it won’t cover all the bills, but we hope the little bit extra helps folks out this winter.”

Related articles: 

• B.C.’s living wage increases amid grocery and housing costs: Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives

• Nearly half of Vancouverites concerned about paying rent or mortgage: survey

• Vancouver woman considers moving amid cost-of-living crisis

Minister of Finance Selina Robinson says the two credits are just the “next steps in a series of targeted” measures.

B.C., earlier this year, provided eligible ICBC customers with a rebate to help offset the high cost of gas. More recently, the federal government sent out GST rebates to Canadians amid record inflation.