Quote:
Originally Posted by Hehe
The idea is that if you need to upgrade service for everything else, like a pool, jacuzzi, and whatnot, BC Hydro and electrician are going to rape you. They wouldn't even do the meter merging thing. It's not a full 400amp services, which is $$$. But rather 2 lines with each having 200amp capacity. But even then, it's nowhere near 160k. In my case, before I went the split line route, I was quoting something around 22k to have a 400amp services (so, 1 line, 1x400amp panel, 1 meter)
But this is a program that BC Hydro set up specifically for people upgrading services because their existing service cannot accommodate EV chargers. As it's a simpler and more straightforward approach. Going anything beyond 200amp requires IIRC a new transformer or something on location to handle the service. But if it's just 2x200amp, where they bring another line coming in, no fancy equipment is needed.
Not sure now, but back then when I was doing the upgrade, not everyone at BC Hydro was aware of such a program. It was when I was calling BC Hydro for some specific questions that the agent told me "oh, we have this program now that might be in your interest". And after I thought that was a good idea, I went back to my electrician, he agreed and I called BC Hydro again... the agent had no idea what I was talking about and had to consult his colleague.
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That makes sense that BC Hydro is trying to figure that out. With the ongoing electrification of everything, there needs to be an affordable way to get increased service. I'm in a house that was built in the 50's. If I switch to an EV and a Heat pump etc, I need to add to and redo my electrical panel.
If i was told it's going to be $50k plus to get just the electrical done, that'd be a non starter.