BC Hydro Net Metering: Self-Generation Rate Schedule 2289 Guide

Key Takeaways

• BC Hydro customer generation is governed by Rate Schedule 2289 Self-Generation Service.
• Technical interconnection standards (DGTIR-100) enforce a net injection limit of 100 kW per phase.
• Exported energy earns a flat credit rate of 10.00 cents per kWh on each billing cycle.
• Advanced hybrid inverter chargers such as the Victron MultiPlus-II 2x120V deliver robust split-phase 120/240V power backup.
• Installations must strictly satisfy Canadian Electrical Code Section 64 and Rule 64-218 rapid shutdown requirements.

Transition from Net Metering 1289 to Self-Generation 2289

In British Columbia, customer-sited solar electricity generation has undergone major regulatory modernization. Effective July 1, 2026, BC Hydro formally transitioned customer-generators from the legacy Net Metering tariff (Rate Schedule 1289) to the modernized Self-Generation Service tariff governed by Rate Schedule 2289.

Under legacy Rate Schedule 1289, customer excess generation was tracked on an annual 1:1 retail kilowatt-hour banking basis, with residual credits paid out annually. Under Rate Schedule 2289 Self-Generation Service, customer billing is streamlined on a per-cycle basis. Solar energy generated on-site instantly offsets domestic consumption. When production exceeds household load, surplus energy flows back onto the BC Hydro distribution grid. Excess energy exported is compensated at a flat credit rate of 10.00 cents per kWh per billing cycle, providing consistent, predictable economic value across all billing seasons.

Technical eligibility is governed under BC Hydro's Distributed Generation Technical Interconnection Requirements (DGTIR-100). The DGTIR-100 technical interconnection standard limits net injection to 100 kW per phase. Systems above this threshold require specialized utility transmission impact studies and customized interconnection equipment.

Technical Architecture: Victron MultiPlus-II 2x120V Split-Phase Systems

For British Columbia homeowners in rural, coastal, or island regions prone to grid interruptions, pairing solar generation with intelligent battery storage provides crucial energy security.

North American residential electrical infrastructure relies on 120/240V split-phase power. The MultiPlus-II 2x 120V is the perfect one-box mobile solution for standard North American 50A 120/240VAC split-phase applications. In popular 3000VA configurations (models: 3000VA), the unit combines an advanced pure sine wave inverter, battery charger, and high-speed automatic transfer switch.

The internal architecture provides comprehensive line control:

• Dual Line Input: Whether it is supplied from shore power or a generator, the MultiPlus-II 2x120V can accept and passthrough both lines of a 120/240V supply.
• Pass-Through Capacity: The system operates with the capability to utilize the full 50A for charging and AC loads.
• Single-Phase Combining: When connecting to a single phase 120V supply, the L1 input of the MultiPlus-II 2x120V will accept incoming power for charging and passthrough while combining outputs.
• Automatic Inversion: The MultiPlus switches to inverter operation when no AC source is available.
• Inverter Output Characteristics: The inverter output is also 120V single phase.
• Internal Leg Bridging: In inverter mode, the MultiPlus-II 2x120V internally connects both lines L1 and L2 together to provide 120VAC to loads on either output.
• Panel Distribution: Therefore in all connection circumstances both sides of a distribution panel will be supplied with 120V.
• Heavy Load Protection: However 240VAC is only available when the MultiPlus is supplied by a split phase 120/240VAC source. This prevents heavy loads such as water heaters or 240V air conditioners from discharging the battery during grid outages.
• Power Management: The MultiPlus-II 2x 120V has all of the expected features of our versatile inverter/charger range including PowerControl, PowerAssist, input current limit, and two AC outputs.
• Chemistry Versatility: The architecture is suitable for LiFePO4 batteries and a variety of other battery technologies.

Electrical Inspection and Safety Standards in British Columbia

Electrical installations in British Columbia fall under the regulatory jurisdiction of Technical Safety BC (TSBC). Contractors must submit an electrical permit prior to commencing work and receive an inspection authorization before utility energization.

All grid-connected renewable systems must comply with Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1) Section 64. Rapid shutdown under Rule 64-218 requires all rooftop array conductors to reduce voltage rapidly upon AC grid disconnection.

While federal Greener Homes Grant and Loan programs are closed to new applicants, pairing BC Hydro's 10.00¢/kWh export credit with clean provincial battery storage ensures robust, self-reliant residential energy independence.