Clean Energy BC’s Response to Government’s Announcement of BC Hydro’s New 10-Year Capital Plan
January 18, 2024
The Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) commends Premier David Eby and the Government of British Columbia on the announcement of significant new investment to build out British Columbia’s electricity system.
This is a positive step to electrifying the economy, creating good jobs, and ensuring BC remains competitive, affordable, and an attractive place to invest. Clean electricity is key to unlocking BC’s potential, and CEBC’s members are excited to play our part by bringing new clean, affordable, and environmentally responsible clean electricity onto the grid.
Yesterday, at the BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George, Premier David Eby announced BC Hydro’s new 10-Year Capital Plan. Changes include almost $36 billion in community and regional infrastructure investments across the province between 2024-25 and 2033-34, representing an increase of 50% over BC Hydro’s previous capital plan ($24 billion) and includes a significant increase in electrification and emissions-reduction infrastructure projects ($9 billion, up from $1 billion).
The boost to BC Hydro’s 10-Year Capital Plan reflects growing demand for electricity across several sectors of B.C.’s economy largely due to population growth and the electrification of industrial, residential, and commercial development and operations across the province.
Examples of actions under the new plan include: building new high-voltage transmission lines in the north coast area, building/expanding substations and installing new equipment across the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, and upgrading dams and generating facilities.
CEBC Executive Director, Kwatuuma Cole Sayers:
“Clean Energy BC (CEBC) is excited to see this announcement as it’s another example that the Government of British Columbia recognizes the need to invest in accelerated electrification, including new renewable power generation under the upcoming call for power. This increased funding will support the province’s climate goals, attract clean investment, and create jobs for people in an innovative sector of the economy.
CEBC members look forward to continuing our work with government and BC Hydro to grow B.C.’s renewable energy sector while advancing reconciliation across the province. This includes collaboration on future calls for renewable power and the build-out of transmission infrastructure in partnership with First Nations.”
