BC Hydro is set to receive a significant injection of federal funding as part of the Government of Canada’s efforts to support electricity projects in the province.
Over $156 million is being allocated to eight BC Hydro initiatives to upgrade infrastructure and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
The funding will support projects in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, and Hudson’s Hope.
Dawson Creek will receive nearly $9 million for the Attachie Project and the installation of a fourth transformer at the Bear Mountain Terminal Substation.
Fort St. John is set to receive $7.5 million to aid in the electrification of existing gas processing facilities. While Hudson’s Hope will benefit from a $15 million investment to construct 25 kilometers of new transmission lines, connecting the Westcoast N5 facility to BC Hydro’s transmission grid.
“In British Columbia we greatly value the support of the Government of Canada as we work together to build out our electricity grid and advance electrification of our industries, communities and vital facilities like hospitals,” said Energy Minister Adrian Dix in a release. “With 98% of BC Hydro’s generation coming from clean or renewable sources, and the third-lowest electricity rates in North America, electrification is one of our key paths to reducing carbon emissions and building a cleaner, prosperous economy.”
BC Hydro will match the federal contributions for the projects to ensuring the developments address growing electricity demand.
The projects will see investment through the Green Infrastructure Stream, with BC Hydro contributing $172.9 million.
To date, 164 projects in British Columbia have been announced under this stream, with over $755 million in federal funding and $428 million in provincial contributions.
The funding is part of the broader $180 billion Investing in Canada Plan, which spans 12 years and focuses on public transit, green infrastructure, social programs, trade routes, and rural development.
The federal funding is subject to Indigenous consultations and environmental assessments.