BC Hydro to further research Daylight Saving Time

BC Hydro says it will come up with a new report on Daylight Saving Time after further research and analysis on what impact, if any, it has on energy use.

The report will be released in fall and will examine whether or not this practice saves electricity in B.C.

A recent survey commissioned by BC Hydro found that the majority of British Columbians do not know why Daylight Saving Time exists.

Daylight Saving Time was first implemented in Canada more than 100 years ago as a way to conserve energy; however, about 60 per cent of British Columbians incorrectly believe its purpose is to provide more sunlight during waking hours.

Others believe it exists to provide more working hours while some just think it costs them an hour of sleep – with 35 per cent saying the time shift has a negative effect on them.

Fifty-six per cent British Columbians would prefer if B.C. remained on standard time year-round.

Several studies have found Daylight Saving Time electricity savings are negligible – or non-existent.

In fact, a recent study in Alberta found that it actually has the opposite effect, increasing energy use, according to the BC Hydro.

Meanwhile, two people in Kamloops have created an online petition urging BC to do away with the practice, according to this recent report from Canadian Press.