What you need to know about your rights and access to cooling under BC Hydro’s program providing free portable air conditioners to tenants.

Am I eligible for a free air conditioner from BC Hydro?
If you are a low-income renter, you may be able to get a free air conditioner
from BC Hydro.

What are the income limits to qualify for the BC Hydro free air conditioner program?

Number of people in household (including children)Maximum household income before taxes
1 person$39,700
2 people$49,500
3 people$60,800
4 people$73,800
5 people$83,700
6 people$94,400
7 or more people$105,100


How do I apply for the BC Hydro air conditioner program?
You can apply online at https://app.bchydro.com/powersmart/residential/ps_low_income/energy_saving_kits/esk/home

What information do I need to provide to apply?

How do I get consent from my landlord?
You will need to ask your landlord to fill out a short consent form.

What if my landlord does not want to sign the consent form?
A FIRST UNITED legal advocate can help ask your landlord to sign the form.

Can my landlord stop me from putting in an air conditioner?
Heat waves pose a health risk and it is essential to have adequate cooling in your home.

Where can I find a legal advocate?
You can access FIRST UNITED’s legal advocacy program during our intake times:

FIRST UNITED Legal Advocacy Office
542 E Hastings St, Vancouver

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9:30 – 11:30 AM
Tuesday, Thursday: 1:00 – 3:00 PM

What is FIRST UNITED doing for tenants’ rights to cooling in their homes?
We are advocating for tenants’ rights to cooling in their homes with
provincial stakeholders. To learn more about our policy work on this issue
follow us on social media @FirstUnitedDTES and sign up for our email
updates here
.

More information about your rights to adequate cooling and air conditioners:

Download the pdf to print or share:

https://admin.firstunited.ca/app/uploads/2024/07/AC-Program-Infosheet-4pg.pdf