BC Hydro Customer Service Issues

I recently received my electricity bill for the last three months and noticed a significant increase compared to previous years. The condominium has been unoccupied since September 13, [redacted]. I reside in Wales, UK and am unable to contact you by phone, hence why I am reaching out via email. I had the property manager inspect the unit, confirming all appliances are off and the heating set at 5 degrees Celsius. Past checks in February indicated the same status quo. Upon reviewing the usage pattern provided, extremely high readings started on November 4, [redacted], and have continued. The meter's readings are drastically higher than any previous usage in the six years since the smart meter installation in February [redacted]. I kindly request an urgent investigation into this issue and an update on the meter's abnormal readings.

The new Puntledge River warning system, activated in the middle of the night, is much louder after a recent update. Originally intended to be more focused on the river and quieter, it seems to have backfired. The sudden changes in the river flow at night are disrupting my sleep, all supposedly for the benefit of kayakers. It puzzles me why these decisions were made without considering local residents. Perhaps a similar system should be installed in the BC Hydro CEO's backyard, operating simultaneously. I live near 16 warning horns that blare for extended periods, and none of this seems logical.

I have concerns regarding the installation of "smart meters" on my property. I was pressured into accepting one under the threat of an extra $80 charge, despite my objections. Recent research suggests that having LED lights and dimmers could potentially increase my bill, and I am worried about the health risks associated with electromagnetic fields (EMF). I am considering taking legal action if a resolution is not reached. Research by Professor FRanz Leferink revealed that some electronic meters can inaccurately report energy consumption, with readings significantly higher than actual usage. These findings are alarming and highlight the need for further investigation.

Good morning, As a loyal BC Hydro customer, I would like to express my concerns about the Power Smart advertising program. While I fully support efforts to promote energy-saving practices, I have reservations about the practice of awarding 'Gold Jackets' to consumers. This approach seems gimmicky and undermines the program's credibility. I believe that showcasing practical ways to save power is beneficial, but the focus on awarding jackets appears superficial. I suggest reconsidering this aspect of the advertising to uphold BC Hydro's reputation and the integrity of the Power Smart initiative. Thank you, R.D. Machon

Subject: Assistance Needed with BC Hydro Account Dear Sirs/Madams, I am the secretary to Mr. & Mrs. Fung, the owners of a property in Vancouver. My bosses, currently in Vancouver, need their BC Hydro bills from June to March. The bills sent via email lack detailed payment history which requires a login with a password on the website. Unfortunately, they do not have their login details as it was set up by their former secretary. Attempting to recover the password, I faced a security question issue. Despite providing the correct answer, the system did not recognize it. Could you kindly reset the password for the account and send an email with instructions to [redacted]? Your assistance in this matter is greatly appreciated. Please let us know if further information is needed regarding the account.

I have received a final disconnection notice from BC Hydro. My information is as follows: Melissa Propp, 39 [redacted] Chase River Rd, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 6L9, Account number [redacted]6. I am desperate for a grace period for payment. I have been bedridden with a severe tooth infection that required hospitalization. I can provide verification. Please grant me more time as I am still recovering and unable to work until next week due to complications affecting my heart and brain. I am in touch with Hydro, and I kindly ask not to be disconnected. I am only just recovering from dealing with the hydro bill left by a tenant who abandoned my property. BC Hydro was understanding and reconnected the service as I am now residing at the location; however, my recent health issues have set me back by two weeks. I am terrified at the thought of losing power. Please, I plead with you not to disconnect my electricity.

A winter storm caused severe damage to our power lines in February. Following the storm, one severed line was reconnected, but two other lines maintained an unsafe proximity, being old and stripped of their coating. This led them to arc sparks during the storm, posing a significant hazard for about 15 minutes before falling to the ground. Despite multiple visits from the utility company, assurances of fixing or replacing the lines have not been fulfilled. Now, we are being told that the old lines are superior to new ones, despite their deteriorating condition and closeness. Additionally, the positioning of the lines from Hydro, Telus, and Shaw is concerning, with their heights not meeting safety standards, particularly with the Telus line hovering close to our patio. Attempts to address these issues with Hydro have been dismissed, leaving us feeling neglected by the companies responsible for maintaining these essential services.

Dear Sir or Madam, I am a student currently researching the long-term CO2 concentration in Vancouver's Sunset neighborhood for my thesis project. The study is in collaboration with the University of British Columbia and the University of Freiburg in Germany. I am analyzing carbon flux data from a micrometeorological research tower and urban development changes like population density, energy use in buildings, and traffic volume. I am seeking statistics on electricity consumption in the Sunset area from [redacted] to [redacted]. The specific location is around the intersection of Knight St and E 49th Ave. I understand email is not part of your customer service but contacting BC Hydro by phone from Europe is challenging due to the time difference. I would greatly appreciate it if you could pass on my request to the relevant department or reach out to me at my email [redacted] Any assistance provided would be highly valued. Your prompt response will be eagerly awaited. Regards, Svenja S.

Dear Community, I have a concern regarding BC Hydro's consumption challenge. As a volunteer foster family for the SPCA, we are currently looking after 13 bull mastiff puppies and their mother. Due to the high number of puppies, we are using our washer and dryer up to four times a day to clean their bedding. Unfortunately, due to the rainy weather, air-drying is not an option. Given the unique circumstances, we are wondering if BC Hydro can provide any flexibility with our consumption challenge. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Warm regards, Rob C. and Ronnie S. Email: [redacted]

Subject: Payment Issue for Helen E. Long's Hydro Account As the Power of Attorney for my 90-year-old mother, Helen E. Long, I am reaching out regarding a recent payment issue with her hydro account. Despite making a payment of $[redacted].49 on May 4th at the bank, as reflected in the receipt and transaction history, the amount appeared as past due on her recent statement. This discrepancy has caused confusion and frustration, especially after encountering challenges with the credit card payment being rejected due to the account being in my late father's name. Furthermore, a request was submitted to have the existing credit balance from account 9[redacted] [redacted] transferred to the new account [redacted], but there has been no response from Hydro regarding this matter. The lack of communication and clarity surrounding these payment matters is concerning and reflects poorly on the customer service provided. I would appreciate any assistance or clarification you can provide on this situation. Sincerely, Charles Long

Dear BC Hydro, I am reaching out regarding our recent bills. Upon contacting customer service, while the representative was courteous, they were unable to provide any relevant details beyond acknowledging the chilly weather. Comparing our bill to that of our neighbors who did not face similar issues, we are skeptical about the charges for the period from December 19th to February 19th, as well as the previous year. Additionally, we are alarmed by the unexpectedly high bill for May. In our household, consisting of two seniors, we use a heat pump, gas furnace, stove, hot water heater, and infrequently utilize the clothes dryer. Our older refrigerator runs year-round and may consume more energy compared to newer models. Despite being away in February with minimal electricity usage, including unplugging appliances and lowering the thermostat, we were surprised by the billing. Being conscientious about our energy consumption, we are puzzled by the steep charges. We would greatly appreciate a clarification on these matters. Sincerely, John and Penny L.

I am seeking information on the process of reserving large amounts of clean energy starting in [redacted] for green hydrogen production in British Columbia, with plans for export to the USA, Europe, and Asia. We are interested in potentially forming a local partnership for hydrogen production in British Columbia on a 50-50 basis. Our business model involves a client-supplier relationship, emphasizing the need for a green product that meets European standards. Our studies indicate that British Columbia's electricity can meet these requirements. We have established agreements with Hydro-Québec and Ontario Power Generation. Kindly provide an email address where I can send our formal request to the appropriate contacts.

Dear BC Hydro Billing Department Representative, I am writing to address a late charge matter that came to my attention after some delay due to living remotely. Living far from town means accessing the post office or reliable internet is not guaranteed. My rural schedule differs from the urban 9-5 routine, making timely bill payments challenging. I have informed a representative that my payments might arrive late due to bill alignment and infrequent trips to town, promised all payments will be made when possible. I recently noticed late fees on my bill post my regular $[redacted] payment. Unfortunately, I cannot afford the extra charges or their accrued interests, especially when already paying more than the monthly amount on the equal billing plan. I hope for your understanding to reverse the late fees, as it may put me behind on payments. I commit to maintaining the $[redacted] monthly payment and resolving future bills promptly. Your assistance in reassessing the late fees and allowing some flexibility post the due date would alleviate financial strain. Your consideration in this matter is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Ruby M. Ridout Watts Road Burton, BC V0G 1E0 Acct. #: [redacted]

I recently relocated from Dawson Creek, BC to Port McNeill, BC. Before leaving Dawson Creek, I had already contacted BC Hydro and was informed that I needed the owners of my new address to clear an outstanding utility bill in order to get the Hydro service connected. The address is 1731B Beach Drive, Port McNeill, BC, V0N 2R0. My name is Geraldine D. I have not yet received a bill from BC Hydro but was told that the previous owner(s) needed to resolve the account matter first. I was also assured that my account number would remain the same from my old address. I have already paid $[redacted]. Can you please let me know the remaining amount owing? Thank you for your assistance.

As the executrix of my late father's estate, I had his hydro account forwarded to me. Without receiving any bills, I assumed everything was paid. In mid-November, I received an automated call indicating the account was in arrears. After contacting Hydro, it was revealed they had the wrong address on file, hence the missing bills. Despite my request for an email statement being denied, I promptly settled the payment at the bank upon receiving the mailed statement. Following a second automated call claiming non-payment, I contacted Hydro again and they confirmed the payment was received. Today, I received a letter threatening collection for the final bill, leading me to express my frustrations to customer service representative Robert at 1:30 PM. Robert's apparent lack of concern for my credit rating and the delayed offer to speak to his supervisor left me unsettled, making me question the current screening process for Hydro staff. Though this interaction was disappointing, it is important for Hydro to be aware of such experiences.

I would like to inform BC Hydro about a missing bill, but I am disappointed by the lack of an email contact option in this day and age. Providing customers with email support is crucial for better service. Not everyone enjoys making phone calls. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, sending a physical letter to the listed addresses on the website could be an option. A letter addressed to "For the attention of a manager" may also be effective in expressing concerns. Thank you, Alison

We purchased a new washer and dryer on October 20, [redacted]. I submitted the rebate application on October 24, but got stuck at step 4 due to my limited computer skills. I mistakenly assumed printing the "BC Hydro rebates and savings rebates confirmation" page was the end of the process. Unfortunately, I can't locate the initial application now. A representative named Sahar informed me that without completing the original application, I may not be able to proceed. She mentioned that even sending in the partial application I have is not an option. I am curious about what options are available for those who do not have internet access.

There is a hazardous tree located between [redacted] Park Drive, [redacted] Park Drive, and the municipality of Metchosin. It was struck by lightning more than 20 years ago and is displaying significant decay with a large strip of missing bark and visible rot holes about halfway up the trunk. Additionally, there are large dead limbs extending over the hydro line. The tree poses a risk to the hydro lines, nearby properties, and lives if it falls. Thank you for addressing this issue. -Ken W. [redacted] Park Drive Email: [redacted]

I received a recorded call from BC Hydro stating there will be a power outage on Feb. 7th from 7 am to 2:30 in the Mission area, but I live in Abbotsford and am confused. I tried calling the 1-[redacted] number provided but only found options for reporting an outage. Can someone please clarify if the outage is in Abbotsford or Mission on that date? Thank you. - M. Finniss

In the past 18 months, we've observed flickering lights in our home, particularly during storms. An electrician inspected our 33-year-old panel, finding no issues except for replacing a breaker. Last night, the problem escalated with sudden dimming followed by two power surges accompanied by loud zapping sounds in our bathroom and bedroom. The fan in the bedroom, initially on medium, surged to high speed during the electrical spike. Our kitchen refrigerator also experienced a brief power loss. I suspect the issue may lie in the hydro box, incoming line, or hydro meter on our property, posing a potential fire hazard.