BC Hydro, the government-owned electric utility company, plays a crucial role in supplying electricity to 95% of British Columbia’s population. In April 2024, the company issued a call for acquiring 3,000 GWh of clean energy to strengthen B.C.’s electricity grid. To their surprise, the response was overwhelming, with independent producers across the province submitting proposals that exceeded expectations, totaling 9,000 GWh.
Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, emphasized the importance of expanding clean energy sources to power homes, businesses, and industries in British Columbia. She highlighted the job creation opportunities that come with building an economy powered by clean, reliable, and affordable electricity. The recent surge in proposals not only supports BC Hydro’s 10-year capital plan but also paves the way for over 10,000 construction jobs and sustainable growth across the province.
Unlike other regions, British Columbia’s hydroelectric system offers a unique advantage in integrating intermittent renewables like wind and solar. The hydroelectric dams in the province act as energy reservoirs, providing the flexibility to store and release water as needed. This capability allows BC Hydro to balance the grid effectively, ensuring a consistent power supply even during adverse weather conditions. The stability and reliability of hydroelectric dams make them a vital source of clean energy in the region.
The 21 proposals submitted cover a diverse range of renewable sources, with a significant focus on wind power (70%), followed by solar (20%), and biomass and hydroelectric projects (10%). These projects span various regions of British Columbia, including the southern Interior, central Interior, north coast, Peace Region, and Vancouver Island. Notably, this competitive energy call marks the first of its kind in over 15 years, reflecting the province’s commitment to expanding its clean energy portfolio.
As BC Hydro evaluates the proposals, electricity purchase agreements are expected to be finalized by December. Construction of these clean energy projects could commence as early as fall 2028, bringing in an estimated $2.3 to $3.6 billion in private investment and creating 800 to 1,500 jobs annually across British Columbia. The future of electricity generation in the province looks promising, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy sources.
Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro, highlighted the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance connections in newly constructed homes and buildings, particularly in growing municipalities like Vancouver. The focus is on upgrading the electricity system to meet the increasing demand for clean electricity from residential, commercial, and industrial customers. BC Hydro’s $36 billion capital plan, rolled out in January 2024, aims to expand infrastructure and support clean growth, creating thousands of jobs annually.
Furthermore, BC Hydro plans to hold competitive power calls every two years to keep pace with the province’s growing economy and the rising demand for renewable energy. This strategic approach not only strengthens the electrical grid but also ensures the affordability and accessibility of clean energy for homes, businesses, and industries. The company’s commitment extends beyond electricity generation to upgrading and enhancing its transmission and distribution networks.
In a recent announcement, BC Hydro unveiled plans to expand its electric vehicle (EV) fast charging network by adding two new 180-kilowatt chargers in Vanderhoof. This initiative aims to support British Columbians in transitioning from gas-powered vehicles to clean electric vehicles. George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, emphasized that the new charging stations would facilitate quick and reliable travel using clean energy, contributing to the province’s goal of reducing emissions by 40% by 2030.
The growing enthusiasm for EVs among British Columbians is evident, with over 170,000 EVs already on the road. BC Hydro anticipates a significant increase in this number, projecting it to reach between 700,000 and 900,000 in the next decade. The company’s clean energy initiatives align with the province’s environmental goals and are set to transform the energy landscape of British Columbia, creating a greener environment for residents and businesses to thrive.
