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Family-Owned Since 2016 | 5-Star Rated | TSBC License LEL0104382

Island Electric Company - Central Vancouver Island's Top-Rated Electrical Contractor

"Friendly, Professional and Reliable Electrical Services From Ladysmith to Parksville" - Founded by Red Seal electricians Shawn Lamoureux and Jaro Bixby, Island Electric delivers personalized electrical solutions with exceptional customer service and genuine Island-style hospitality.

Emergency Services Available
Immediate response for urgent electrical issues across Central Vancouver Island
8+
Years Experience
4.9/5
Star Rating
Red Seal
Certified
BBB A+
Rating

Complete Electrical Services

Residential Electrical

Complete home rewiring, panel upgrades, smart home automation, and EV chargers

Commercial Electrical

Office build-outs, retail stores, restaurants, and tenant improvements

Industrial Electrical

Three-phase power, motor controls, VFD installations, and process control systems

Specialty Services

Solar integration, battery storage, heat pump electrical, and off-grid systems

Serving Central Vancouver Island
Ladysmith • Nanaimo • Cedar • Lantzville • Parksville • Qualicum Beach • Gulf Islands

About Island Electric Company - Nanaimo's Trusted Electricians

Central Vancouver Island's Premier Family-Run Electrical Contractor

Family-Owned Since 2016 | Red Seal Certified Electricians

"Friendly, Professional and Reliable Electrical Services From Ladysmith to Parksville"

Island Electric Company is Central Vancouver Island's premier family-run electrical contracting firm, delivering safe, reliable electrical solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial clients from Ladysmith to Parksville. Founded in 2016 by Red Seal electricians Shawn Lamoureux and Jaro Bixby, Island Electric has rapidly established itself as one of the region's highest-rated electrical contractors, known for exceptional customer service, professional craftsmanship, and genuine Island-style hospitality.

What sets Island Electric apart from larger contractors is their unwavering commitment to personalized service. While maintaining the professional standards and technical expertise expected from certified electricians, Shawn, Jaro, and their team treat every project—whether a 2-hour residential service call or a long-term commercial installation—with the same attention to detail and customer-first approach. When you hire Island Electric Company, you're not just getting qualified electricians; you're supporting a local family business dedicated to helping their community, their dedicated crew, and over 15 little ones that depend on Island Electric's success.

Red Seal Certified
Both Founders Certified
TSBC Licensed
License LEL0104382
BBB A+ Rating
Trusted Local Contractor

Office Location - Serving Central Vancouver Island

Nanaimo Office

Since 2016

161 Black Powder Trail
Nanaimo, BC V9S 3G4

Shawn: (250) 616-8621
Jaro: (250) 741-4883

Service Area

Central Vancouver Island

South: Ladysmith, Saltair, Chemainus
Central: All Nanaimo neighborhoods
North: Cedar, Lantzville, Parksville, Qualicum Beach
Islands: Gabriola, Mudge, DeCourcy, Link, Valdes

Business Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Emergency Service: Available - Call Shawn or Jaro

Specialty Electrical Services - Central Vancouver Island

Panel Upgrades & Electrical Service Upgrades

Electrical service upgrades are increasingly necessary for modern Island homes requiring capacity for EV chargers, heat pumps, hot tubs, and backup generators. Island Electric specializes in seamless panel upgrades throughout Central Vancouver Island.

Service Upgrade Capabilities

  • 60A to 100A upgrades (older Island homes)
  • 100A to 200A upgrades (most common residential)
  • 200A to 400A upgrades (large homes, multiple EVs, workshops)
  • Arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) upgrades
  • Whole-home surge protection systems
  • Sub-panel installations for garages and outbuildings

When You Need a Panel Upgrade

  • Installing Level 2 EV charging station (requires 40-60A dedicated circuit)
  • Adding heat pump or ductless mini-split systems
  • Installing hot tub or sauna electrical requirements
  • Home additions or suite conversions requiring additional capacity
  • Frequent circuit breaker tripping or dimming lights
  • Insurance requirements for older electrical systems

EV Charging Station Installation

  • Level 2 EV charger installations (Tesla, ChargePoint, FLO)
  • Dedicated 40-60A circuit installations
  • Garage and outdoor charging station wiring
  • Load calculations and panel capacity assessments

Generator & Backup Power Systems

  • Standby generator installations (Generac, Kohler, Honda)
  • Automatic transfer switch installations
  • Manual transfer switches for portable generators
  • Essential circuits backup power configuration

Hot Tub & Pool Electrical

  • Hot tub electrical installations (50A-60A circuits)
  • Pool pump and heater electrical service
  • GFCI protection and safety disconnects
  • Pool and landscape lighting circuits

Smart Home & Automation

  • Smart lighting systems (Lutron, Philips Hue)
  • Smart thermostat installations (Nest, Ecobee)
  • Security system and camera wiring
  • Whole-home automation pre-wiring

Electrical Safety & Inspections

  • Pre-purchase home electrical inspections
  • Electrical panel safety assessments
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detector installations
  • ESA permit coordination and final inspections

Complete Residential Electrical Services - Central Vancouver Island

Single-Family Home Electrical Services

Island Electric Company delivers comprehensive residential electrical services for single-family homes throughout Central Vancouver Island, from new construction to heritage home upgrades in Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Parksville, and surrounding communities.

New Home Construction Electrical

  • Complete electrical installations for new single-family homes
  • Design-build electrical collaboration with local builders
  • Whole-home automation and smart home pre-wiring
  • EV charging station infrastructure and installation
  • Generator installation and backup power systems
  • Network cabling and telecommunications infrastructure

Home Renovation & Remodel Electrical

  • Kitchen electrical renovations (islands, under-cabinet lighting, appliances)
  • Bathroom electrical upgrades (GFCI protection, heated floors)
  • Basement finishing electrical (rec rooms, home theaters, suites)
  • Heritage home electrical modernization and panel upgrades
  • Aluminum wiring remediation and safety upgrades
  • Hot tub and pool electrical installations

Additional Residential Electrical Services

Emergency & Repair Services

  • Emergency electrical service calls available
  • Panel troubleshooting and circuit breaker repairs
  • Outlet and switch replacement and repair
  • Electrical safety inspections and diagnostics

Upgrades & Installations

  • Electrical panel upgrades (100A to 200A+)
  • Ceiling fan and light fixture installations
  • Smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm installation
  • Outdoor lighting and landscape electrical
  • Security system and doorbell camera wiring

Specialized Electrical Services

  • Home energy audits and efficiency upgrades
  • Detached garage and workshop electrical
  • Temporary power for construction and events
  • ESA electrical permits and inspection coordination

Customer Reviews - Real Experiences from Central Vancouver Island

Sarah Bennett
Google Review • Nanaimo BC

"Island Electric Company did a fantastic job completely rewiring our 110 year old home. We are very pleased with the communication, workmanship and rates."

Bonnie Stevenson
Google Review • Nanaimo BC

"Great owners and employees. Detailed quotes, easy to work with, friendly, efficient and accountable!"

Verified Customer
Google Review • Central VI

"Island Electric Co. completed the electrical on our full basement suite renovation. The quality of work is exceptional and Shawn, Jaro and their team are professional and great to work with. Highly recommend!"

Residential Client
Google Review

"We had a complete reno and wire upgrade and they made all our electrical dreams come true. Their staff went above and beyond every day to make sure we were happy and getting the best service possible."

Service Call Customer
Google Review

"Island Electric was very helpful on our phone conversation. When we needed them to come out they were very prompt and repaired the electrical issue right away. Very friendly and conscientious! Will definitely use them again."

Recent Client
Google Review • 2024

"Phenomenal experience having Island Electric work on our house. Hayden & Liam were so friendly and professional! They did very clean work and worked at lightning speeds. Words do not express the top tier craft and services they provide."

Commercial Testimonial & Review Platforms

Broken Coast Cannabis

Commercial Client • Nanaimo

"Everything from environmental control systems to 1600amp 600v 3-phase service upgrades. They took on a massive project at our medical marijuana facility. They do great work. They are on time and on budget. We will definitely be hiring Island Electric Company for all our electrical needs."

Google Reviews

58+ Reviews • 4.9/5 Stars

Most verified customer reviews praising exceptional quality, communication, and professionalism

Birdeye

82 Reviews • 4.9/5 Stars

Aggregated reviews from multiple platforms confirming consistent excellence

Facebook

@islandelectriccompany

Customer reviews and project updates from Central Vancouver Island

HomeStars

Local Pro Profile

Verified local professional with residential electrical service reviews

Meet the Founders - Shawn Lamoureux & Jaro Bixby

Shawn Lamoureux

Co-Founder & Red Seal Electrician
Red Seal Certified
Camosun College Training
Family Heritage in Trade

Shawn Lamoureux's journey into the electrical industry was practically predetermined, with a long family history in the trade. Becoming an electrician was a natural choice that has defined his professional life. Shawn's electrical career began with comprehensive training at Camosun College, where he developed foundational skills that would serve as the bedrock for his future success.

Before launching Island Electric Company, Shawn spent four years working as a maintenance electrician at Harmac Pacific (Nanaimo Forest Products), one of Vancouver Island's largest industrial facilities. During this period at Harmac, Shawn gained invaluable experience in industrial electrical systems, preventative maintenance protocols, troubleshooting complex electrical issues, and managing electrical infrastructure for large-scale operations.

It was at Harmac that Shawn met Jaro Bixby, his future business partner. The two electricians quickly recognized they worked exceptionally well together, complementing each other's skills and sharing a vision for what electrical contracting could be—customer-focused, professional, and built on genuine relationships. In 2016, Shawn and Jaro took the leap to start Island Electric Company, building it from the ground up with unwavering commitment to quality and customer service.

Direct Contact

(250) 616-8621

Jaro Bixby

Co-Founder & Red Seal Electrician
Red Seal Certified
10+ Years Residential
5 Years Industrial

Jaro Bixby's electrical career began in the residential sector, where he developed extensive wiring, renovation, and new construction skills serving homeowners across Vancouver Island. For over 10 years before founding Island Electric, Jaro built a strong foundation in residential electrical contracting—the work that would eventually become a cornerstone of Island Electric's service offerings.

Jaro's career took a significant turn when he joined Nanaimo Forest Products at the Harmac pulp mill facility. Over five years at Harmac, Jaro worked as both a project electrician and area maintenance electrician, gaining exposure to process controls, motor controls, electrical distribution, industrial lighting, and advanced troubleshooting skills. This industrial experience, combined with Jaro's residential electrical background, created a unique skill set that differentiates Island Electric from competitors who specialize in only one sector.

It was at Harmac that Jaro first met Shawn Lamoureux. The two electricians collaborated on numerous projects, quickly discovering they worked seamlessly together. This professional chemistry, combined with a shared vision for building a better electrical contracting company, led to the founding of Island Electric Company in 2016. Colleagues and clients consistently describe Jaro as hard-working, positive, and detail-oriented, bringing an infectious enthusiasm to every project combined with the technical competence that comes from years of diverse electrical experience.

Direct Contact

(250) 741-4883

The Island Electric Team & Values

While Shawn and Jaro remain at the helm of Island Electric Company, they've built a team of motivated, professional electricians who share their vision for exceptional service. Island Electric employs bondable, career electricians—not temporary contractors or apprentices working unsupervised. Every member of the Island Electric team is committed to providing the same high level of customer service, whether dispatched to a 2-hour service call or a months-long commercial project.

Customer Service Excellence

Above all else, every interaction focused on exceptional customer experience

Professional Appearance

Clean, professional conduct and appearance on every job site

Clear Communication

Transparent communication throughout every project phase

Safety & Code Compliance

Unwavering commitment to safety standards and electrical code

Pride in Workmanship

Meticulous attention to detail and quality in every installation

Community Support

Supporting local families, community, and over 15 little ones

"All of our electricians share the vision of creating a great experience for our clients – or they don't work for us."
— Shawn Lamoureux & Jaro Bixby

Commercial & Industrial Electrical - Central Vancouver Island

Commercial New Construction & Build-Outs

Island Electric Company delivers professional commercial electrical solutions across Central Vancouver Island, serving retail, office, industrial, hospitality, and institutional clients from Ladysmith to Parksville.

Commercial Building Types We Serve

  • Retail stores and shopping centers
  • Restaurants, breweries, and hospitality venues
  • Medical and dental clinics
  • Cannabis production facilities (Health Canada licensed)
  • Industrial warehouses and manufacturing
  • Office buildings and professional spaces
  • Mixed-use developments

New Construction Services

  • Complete electrical design-build services
  • Main electrical service installations (120V to 600V)
  • Lighting design and installation
  • Emergency lighting and exit signs
  • Fire alarm system electrical rough-ins
  • Data and telecommunications pre-wiring
  • HVAC electrical connections

Tenant Improvements (TI) & Renovations

Island Electric specializes in tenant improvement electrical work for commercial spaces throughout Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and surrounding communities.

Office Tenant Improvements

  • Open-concept office electrical layouts
  • Server room electrical and dedicated circuits
  • Conference room AV system electrical

Retail Tenant Improvements

  • Display and track lighting systems
  • Point-of-sale (POS) electrical systems
  • Storefront window lighting and security

Restaurant & Hospitality TI

  • Commercial kitchen electrical (hood systems, equipment)
  • Dining room lighting and ambiance systems
  • Walk-in cooler and freezer electrical

Industrial Electrical Services

  • Three-phase power installations (208V, 347V, 480V, 600V)
  • Machine and equipment electrical connections
  • Motor control centers and VFD installations
  • Manufacturing and production facility electrical

Commercial Lighting Projects

  • Interior LED retrofits (T8 fluorescent to LED conversion)
  • Parking lot and exterior LED lighting
  • Warehouse high-bay LED installations
  • Energy-efficient lighting upgrades (BC Hydro rebates)

Cannabis Production Facilities

  • Health Canada licensed facility electrical design
  • High-intensity grow room lighting systems
  • Environmental control systems electrical
  • Specialized circuits for extraction and processing equipment

24/7 Emergency Electrical Services - Always Available

Emergency Service Available 24/7/365

Electrical Emergencies Don't Wait - Neither Do We

When electrical emergencies strike, every minute counts. Island Electric Company provides 24-hour emergency electrical services throughout Central Vancouver Island. Our Red Seal certified electricians are on-call 24/7, 365 days a year—including holidays, weekends, and the middle of the night. We respond rapidly to power outages, electrical fires, sparking outlets, and any electrical hazard that threatens your safety or property.

Need Emergency Electrical Help Right Now?

Our emergency electricians are standing by 24/7

Emergency Contact Numbers - Central Vancouver Island

Shawn Lamoureux

Red Seal Electrician
Emergency 24/7
250-616-8621
Nanaimo • Parksville • Ladysmith • All Central Vancouver Island

Jaro Bixby

Red Seal Electrician
Emergency 24/7
250-741-4883
Nanaimo • Qualicum Beach • Chemainus • All Mid-Island Communities

Nanaimo Office

Business Hours
General Inquiries
250-616-8621
For non-emergency electrical service requests and quotes

What Qualifies as an Electrical Emergency?

Call our emergency line immediately if you experience any of these potentially dangerous electrical situations:

Total Power Outage

Your entire property has lost power while neighbors still have electricity (main service failure)

Sparking Outlets or Switches

Visible sparks, smoke, or burning smell from electrical outlets, switches, or panels

Electrical Fire

Active electrical fire or smoldering wires (call 911 first, then us for emergency repairs)

Exposed Live Wires

Damaged wiring with exposed conductors that pose an electrocution risk

Water & Electrical Contact

Flooding or water damage affecting electrical panels, outlets, or wiring

Electrical Panel Malfunction

Breakers won't reset, panel is hot to touch, buzzing sounds, or flickering lights throughout the building

Our Emergency Response Process

1

Immediate Dispatch

Red Seal certified electrician dispatched immediately upon your call—typically within 30-60 minutes on Central Vancouver Island

2

Safety Assessment

Thorough evaluation to identify immediate hazards and determine safest repair approach

3

Emergency Repairs

Complete emergency electrical repairs to restore power safely and eliminate hazards

4

Follow-Up Recommendations

Detailed report with recommendations for permanent solutions and preventive measures

Leadership Team - Red Seal Certified Experts

Red Seal Certified Electricians Serving Central Vancouver Island

Island Electric Company is owned and operated by two Red Seal certified electricians who bring decades of combined electrical expertise to every project. As hands-on owner-operators, Shawn and Jaro personally oversee your electrical work from initial consultation through final inspection, ensuring the highest quality standards and personalized service throughout Central Vancouver Island.

Shawn Lamoureux

Owner & Red Seal Electrician
Red Seal Journeyperson Electrician
BC Licensed Electrical Contractor

Red Seal certified electrician with extensive experience in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems throughout Central Vancouver Island. Specializes in new construction, panel upgrades, and complex electrical troubleshooting.

24/7 Emergency Response - 250-616-8621
Expert in residential and commercial electrical

Jaro Bixby

Owner & Red Seal Electrician
Red Seal Journeyperson Electrician
BC Licensed Electrical Contractor

Red Seal certified electrician with deep expertise in industrial electrical systems, cannabis production facilities, and commercial lighting design. Brings precision and technical excellence to every electrical installation.

24/7 Emergency Response - 250-741-4883
Specialist in industrial and cannabis facilities

The Owner-Operator Advantage

As a locally owned and operated electrical contracting company, Island Electric Company offers a level of personal service and accountability that larger contractors simply cannot match. When you work with Island Electric, you're working directly with the owners—Red Seal certified electricians who stake their professional reputation on every single job.

Both Shawn and Jaro are hands-on throughout your project, from initial assessment and electrical design through installation and final testing. This direct oversight ensures quality workmanship, transparent communication, and electrical work you can trust for decades to come.

2
Red Seal Electricians
100%
Owner Oversight
24/7
Emergency Service

Careers at Island Electric - Join Our Growing Team

Build Your Electrical Career on Central Vancouver Island

Island Electric Company is growing and looking for talented electricians who want to work on diverse projects throughout Central Vancouver Island. As a locally owned company, we offer hands-on training, direct mentorship from Red Seal certified owners, and the opportunity to work across residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. If you're a journeyperson electrician or apprentice seeking quality work and career development, we'd like to hear from you.

Why Electricians Choose Island Electric

Competitive Wages

Industry-competitive pay rates for journeypersons and apprentices on Central Vancouver Island

Direct Owner Mentorship

Learn directly from Red Seal certified owner-operators who work alongside you

Diverse Project Exposure

Work on residential, commercial, industrial, and cannabis facility electrical projects

Local Work, No Travel

All projects on Central Vancouver Island - work close to home every day

Skills Development

Hands-on experience across all aspects of electrical work with ongoing training

Small Team Environment

Work in a close-knit team where your contributions are valued and recognized

Electrical Apprenticeship Opportunities

What We Offer Apprentices

  • Direct mentorship from Red Seal certified electricians
  • Hands-on experience across residential, commercial, and industrial work
  • Support for technical training and certification exams
  • Exposure to specialized systems (EV charging, cannabis facilities, smart home)
  • Clear path to journeyperson certification
  • Work on Central Vancouver Island projects from Ladysmith to Parksville
2
Red Seal Mentors
4-Year
Complete Training Program
100%
Hands-On Learning

Community Involvement - Supporting Central Vancouver Island

Proud to Support the Communities We Serve

At Island Electric Company, community means everything. As a locally owned electrical contractor, we live and work right here on Central Vancouver Island—our kids go to the same schools, we shop at the same stores, and we're invested in making our region a better place to live. We're proud supporters of local youth sports, community events, and charitable causes throughout Nanaimo, Parksville, Ladysmith, and surrounding areas.

Our Community Focus Areas

Youth Sports & Recreation

Sponsoring local hockey teams, soccer leagues, and youth recreation programs that keep Central Vancouver Island kids active and engaged.

Community Events

Participating in local festivals, charity fundraisers, and community celebrations throughout the mid-island region.

Education & Training

Supporting electrical trades training programs and educational institutions developing the next generation of skilled electricians.

Local Business Support

Partnering with local suppliers, supporting other Central Vancouver Island businesses, and keeping our economic impact local.

Committed to Central Vancouver Island

As owner-operators living and working on Central Vancouver Island, Shawn and Jaro are personally invested in the success and wellbeing of our local communities. We believe in supporting the places where we raise our families, build our businesses, and plan our futures.

Local Youth Sports

  • Minor hockey associations
  • Community soccer leagues
  • Youth baseball and softball
  • School athletic programs

Community Organizations

  • Local charitable organizations
  • Community service clubs
  • School fundraising initiatives
  • Regional events and festivals

Industry & Trade Support

  • Vancouver Island construction associations
  • Electrical trades training programs
  • Apprenticeship development
  • Local trades networking

Local Business Partnerships

  • Mid-island electrical suppliers
  • Local building material providers
  • Regional general contractors
  • Vancouver Island small businesses

Energy Rebates & Incentives - Save Money on Electrical Upgrades

Thousands in Available Rebates

Let Island Electric Help You Access BC Energy Rebates

Upgrading your electrical system doesn't have to break the bank. BC Hydro, CleanBC, and federal programs offer substantial rebates and incentives for energy-efficient electrical upgrades, EV charger installations, heat pump systems, and commercial energy retrofits. As experienced electrical contractors serving Central Vancouver Island, Island Electric guides you through the rebate application process, ensures your projects meet program requirements, and maximizes your energy savings.

Residential Energy Rebates & Incentives

EV Charger Rebates

Up to $350

BC Hydro offers rebates for residential Level 2 EV charging station installations. Covers a portion of the equipment and installation costs for qualified electricians.

  • $350 rebate for Level 2 charger installation
  • Must use certified electrical contractor
  • Charger must meet CSA standards

Heat Pump Upgrades

Up to $6,000

CleanBC Better Homes provides rebates for air source and ground source heat pump installations, including necessary electrical upgrades.

  • $3,000 for ducted air source heat pumps
  • $6,000 for ground source heat pumps
  • Covers electrical panel upgrades if needed

Electrical Panel Upgrades

Up to $2,000

When upgrading to electric heat or adding EV charging, BC Hydro and CleanBC provide rebates for necessary electrical service panel upgrades.

  • Covers 100A to 200A panel upgrades
  • Must be combined with heat pump or EV charger installation
  • Licensed electrician required

LED Lighting Upgrades

Instant Discounts

BC Hydro offers instant point-of-sale discounts on LED bulbs, fixtures, and commercial lighting retrofits.

  • Instant rebates at participating retailers
  • Commercial LED retrofit incentives
  • No application required for instant rebates

How Island Electric Maximizes Your Rebates

1

Rebate Identification

We identify all available rebates and incentives for your electrical project, ensuring you don't miss any savings opportunities.

2

Compliance Planning

Our designs and installations meet all program requirements, ensuring your project qualifies for maximum rebates.

3

Application Assistance

We provide all necessary documentation and support for your rebate applications, simplifying the process.

4

Professional Installation

Red Seal certified electricians perform code-compliant installations that satisfy rebate program inspection requirements.