MLA for the North Island is critical of BC Hydro’s two-tier billing system that’s aimed at encouraging power conservation. New Democrat Claire Trevena says many of her constituents have no other choice but to rely on electricity to heat their homes. “Many of the homes are quite old and not well insulated, it’s not in peoples ability to conserve energy,” states Trevena. She says “People in my constituency have no option but to pay high BC Hydro rates because there are no other energy options. I talk to seniors who question whether they can afford to keep the heat or lights on, or to afford groceries.” Trevena says the heating choices that people have in larger centres aren’t available to those in remotes areas.