BC Hydro will cancel all power outages in the province, except in the case of an emergency.
“We recognize that the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak means that a lot of our customers are spending more time at home now and in the weeks ahead,” the agency said.
BC Hydro said crews will continue to respond to all outages and restore power as soon as possible, however.
The agency said it will also stop disconnections for non-payment as it anticipates a negative financial impact of COVID-19 on businesses.
On Friday, March 20, the British Columbia Utilities Commission also issued a letter to all public utilities to stop any disconnections, for reasons other than safety, for 90 days.
Meanwhile, those who have trouble paying their bills can call BC Hydro at 1 800 224 9376 to arrange for flexible payment plans with no penalty.
BC Hydro says some customers have also reported receiving calls threatening disconnection from fake BC Hydro employees.
“We’ve stopped disconnections during the COVID-19 pandemic and we ask that you report these fraudulent calls to your local police department,” the agency said.