BC Hydro conducted a new study to determine how many British Columbians are getting into the spooky spirit with Halloween decorations this year and the answer is surprising.
The survey determined that a quarter of BC residents decorate theirs about the same amount for both Halloween and Christmas - with almost ten per cent decorating more for Halloween.
Of those people a quarter will be using electric Halloween decorations, including outdoor lights (13%), electric jack-o-lanterns (13%) and plug in inflatables (5%). Those who are using electric decorations, 20% will use multiple plug-ins, which could add to electricity costs.
Research also showed that consumer spending on Halloween decorations has increased, and is at an all time high since many feel they missed out on celebrations last year due to COVID-19.
This could be why 15% of British Columbians said they have noticed more Halloween mega displays in their neighbourhood since the start of the pandemic.
“BC Hydro data shows holiday displays account for about 3% of the provincial electricity load during the holidays, and Halloween displays could eventually reach that level if the trend continues at its current pace,” said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson.
With many people putting up Halloween lights, 22% are still using a mix of older inefficient incandescent lights with some LEDs, while about 8% use all incandescent lights, increasing their energy costs and consumption.
BC Hydro suggests switching to LED lights and using plug in timers to reduce energy consumption and costs.
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