Effective July 1, 2026, BC Hydro closes Rate Schedule 1289 (RS 1289) to new self-generation customers. New solar connections are placed on Rate Schedule 2289 (RS 2289). This is one of the biggest financial variables for BC solar payback in 2026.
RS 1289 vs RS 2289 — quick comparison
| RS 1289 (closing to new customers) | RS 2289 (new customers from July 1) | |
|---|---|---|
| Status after July 1, 2026 | Closed to new customers | Default for new self-generation connections |
| Export compensation | 1:1 retail-rate bill credit (exported kWh credited at your retail electricity rate) | Fixed 10 cents per kWh |
| Existing customers | Existing RS 1289 customers remain on that rate until 10 years have passed from their initial net metering start date. (BC Hydro rate update) | N/A — new enrollments only |
What's changing for new solar customers
- Export compensation: 10 cents per kWh
- Excess generation compensated each billing cycle at a fixed 10 cents/kWh credit.
- Accepting a BC Hydro solar rebate confirms acceptance of RS 2289
Existing RS 1289 customers
Existing RS 1289 customers remain on that rate until 10 years have passed from their initial net metering start date. Source: BC Hydro customer generation rate updates.
If you are already on RS 1289, July 1 does not automatically move you to RS 2289. New applications after the effective date are placed on RS 2289.
Solar rebate recipients and RS 2289
Customers who receive BC Hydro solar rebates are moved to RS 2289. Customers who received a solar rebate before March 24, 2026 may have a one-time option to repay the rebate and remain on RS 1289, under BC Hydro published terms. Confirm current rules on BC Hydro's rate update page before making decisions.
How this affects payback
Homes that export a large portion of generation feel RS 2289 more than homes that self-consume during the day. Battery storage may shift usage patterns — but battery rebates have their own rules as of April 1, 2026.
Is solar worth it in BC? → · Solar rebate guide →
Timeline checklist
- Apply for self-generation pre-approval before buying equipment
- Understand whether your connection date falls before or after July 1, 2026
- Model export revenue at 10 cents/kWh — not legacy 1:1 retail credits
- Factor rebate acceptance = RS 2289 confirmation