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  • BC Hydro at work: Transmission tower assembly on the Fraser River

    Apr 2, 2013

    BC Hydro crews assembling a replacement transmission tower on the north bank of the Fraser River on Easter Monday. This is part of the ongoing work on the 500-kilovolt transmission line crossing the river from Surrey to Coquitlam.

    In the summer of 2011, a transmission tower on the south side of t...
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  • BC Hydro at work: Restoring Fraser River transmission infrastructure

    Mar 27, 2013

    March 27: BC Hydro crews used a helicopter on Monday as part of their ongoing work on the 500-kilovolt transmission line crossing the Fraser River from Surrey to Coquitlam. Crews hope to complete work and energize the lines by early May. 

     

    In the summer of 2011, a transmission tower on the sout...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Climbing poles

    Mar 25, 2013

    BC Hydro Trades Trainees practicing their pole climbing skills in Surrey last week. If they choose to pursue an apprenticeship as a power line technician, they will be required to complete 42-months of on-the-job and classroom training.

     

    Power line technicians are responsible for constructing, ...

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  • Iskut extension will power development in Northwest

    Mar 22, 2013

    VICTORIA – Rich Coleman, Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas announced that work will begin on the 287-kilovolt Iskut extension to the Northwest Transmission Line (NTL) this spring. It will provide clean electricity to the Red Chris mine and open up British Columbia’s Northwest to new econo...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Vancouver Island crews work to restore power following wire theft

    Mar 20, 2013

    Thirty-five BC Hydro employees helped to restore power to the village of Ditidaht, a First Nations community near Port Alberni, over the weekend after it was discovered that copper grounding wire had been stolen from 300 utility poles delivering power to the community.

    The theft made electrical d...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Crews repair broken power pole

    Mar 14, 2013

    On Wednesday, BC Hydro crews worked in a snowstorm to replace a broken power pole five kilometres northwest of Vanderhoof after a pick-up truck and trailer slid off the road earlier in the day. The trailer landed on its end, up against a BC Hydro power pole, which was broken by the force of the c...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Replacing aging power poles

    Mar 11, 2013

    Last Friday, BC Hydro crews replaced a power pole on Gillies Bay Road in Texada Island. Over time, wooden poles weaken due to weather conditions, insects, birds and wildlife. As a result, BC Hydro regularly inspects the old poles and invests in new poles to maintain the vast system.  With more th...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Replacing poles in downtown Duncan

    Feb 25, 2013

    BC Hydro crews work on Kenneth Street in downtown Duncan on Feb. 24. Crews replaced five power poles in one day. To limit future disruptions to electricity service, five crews from different districts on Vancouver Island were called in to help with the work so all of the poles could be replaced a...

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  • BC Hydro crew places first at international event

    Feb 14, 2013

    On Tuesday in Vancouver, power-line technicians Paul Kramer, Steve Lang and Chris Smith, were congratulated by BC Hydro president and CEO, Charles Reid (far right) and executive vice-president of Transmission and Distribution, Greg Reimer (far left), for placing first in the municipal division at...

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  • B.C. Utilities Commission approves John Hart generating station replacement

    Feb 8, 2013

    Vancouver Island project to improve reliable power, sustain 400 jobs a year over five years 

    CAMPBELL RIVER – The British Columbia Utilities Commission has approved the replacement of the John Hart generating station near Campbell River. The commission determined the project was the most cost-eff...
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  • BC Hydro Files Environmental Impact Statement for Site C

    Jan 28, 2013

    VANCOUVER – BC Hydro has submitted its Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Site C Clean Energy Project to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and the British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office. This is an important milestone for the Site C project.

    The EIS descri...

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  • Helping customers understand smart meters - by Minister Rich Coleman

    Jan 25, 2013

    On January 23, Energy, Mines and Natural Gas Minister Rich Coleman released the following opinion editorial on helping customers understand the benefits of smart meters. The entire letter can viewed on line by visiting the Province of British Columbia's website.

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  • BC Hydro at work: Big tower construction continues

    Jan 25, 2013

    Jan. 25, 2013: More than 600 steel transmission towers with an average height of 42.5 metres – the equivalent of 24 people standing on top of one another – will be built for the Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Line. This tower was put up near Merritt earlier this month. The project involv...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Enormous turbine travels through Kansas on route to Mica Dam

    Jan 21, 2013

    Jan. 21, 2013: On Friday, a 65 metre long truck travelled through Hays, Kansas carrying a 137.5-tonne Francis turbine (runner) to Mica Dam north of Revelstoke. The runner will arrive in B.C. this spring and power the fifth generating unit at Mica Dam, which is expected to be in service October 20...

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  • New transmission line energized, powering economic growth

    Jan 10, 2013

    GOLDEN – A new 112-kilometre transmission line is providing reliable electrical service to communities from Invermere to Field in the upper Columbia Valley this winter. 

    The Columbia Valley Transmission line was energized in the fall after a two-year construction period. The project cost $114 mi...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Transmission towers put up outside of Merritt

    Jan 7, 2013

    Last weekend, BC Hydro raised the first steel transmission tower outside of Merritt as part of the Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission project. The project includes construction of more than 600 steel transmission towers with an average height of 42.5 metres. If the towers were laid end-to-en...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Crews in Fort St. John respond to a trouble call in freezing conditions

    Dec 21, 2012

    Dec. 21, 2012: BC Hydro crews work along the Alaska Highway in Fort St. John on Dec. 20 to repair a broken cross arm – the horizontal beam that holds up the wires. The crew worked around live lines in minus 35 degrees Celsius to limit any disruption to the customers’ service.

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  • BC Hydro at work: Crews patrol snow covered transmission lines near Port Alberni

    Dec 20, 2012

    Dec. 20, 2012: BC Hydro crews took to the skies near Port Alberni earlier today to search a transmission line for the source of an outage after the heavy snowfall. When lines are damaged or go down in a remote area, crews will often use helicopters to help them find the damage and repair it.

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  • BC Hydro at work: Crews upgrading power line in snowy conditions in Smithers

    Dec 19, 2012

    Dec. 19, 2012: BC Hydro crews hard at work in the snow today upgrading a section of the power line in Smithers. Line upgrades improve the reliability of BC Hydro’s electricity system.
     

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  • BC Hydro at work: Unusual weather leads to unusual solution

    Dec 19, 2012

    Dec. 19, 2012: The unusual weather conditions in the North Thompson led to BC Hydro implementing an unusual solution to ensure reliable service to several hundred customers near Barriere.

    BC Hydro used a helicopter to blast snow and ice off trees near a remote power line that crosses through an a...

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  • BC Hydro at work: Crews hang cables in snowy conditions near the Kwadacha First Nation

    Dec 14, 2012

    BC Hydro crews hard at work in the snow and sub-zero temperatures hanging cable pipes under the Finlay River Bridge, near Fort Ware. The bridge is the only way in or out of the Kwadacha First Nation and the installation of the pipes – completed today – will help bring power from BC Hydro’s grid t...

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  • Team Power Smart photo contest

    Dec 4, 2012

    BC Hydro has announced the first place and top ten photographs for the Team Power Smart photo contest in partnership with London Drugs and Royal BC Museum. This year’s theme was wasteful behaviour and judges looked at how entries captured wastefulness. The judging panel reviewed 550 entries and s...

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  • Are you prepared for a power outage?

    Nov 19, 2012

    VANCOUVER – In the winter months storms hit B.C. more frequently. This increases the potential for power outages. BC Hydro is suggesting six easy steps to ensure you and your family are better prepared.

    1.     Know the number to call when the power goes out. To report an outage, call 1-888-POWE...
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  • Gigantic BC Hydro transformers on the move

    Nov 15, 2012

    A 96-wheeled truck transports a five-metre high, 106-tonne transformer to BC Hydro’s Mica Dam. The transformer, a steel tank containing copper windings and an electrical core, is one of four that travelled across the country on CP Rail from Quebec to Revelstoke. The final leg is by truck from Rev...

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  • Stave Falls Spillway Gate Reliability Project

    Nov 1, 2012
     
    Project Benefits
    • The new spillway gates enable BC Hydro to continue to reliably release excess water from the reservoir in a safe, controlled manner. This is important during flood conditions to protect public safety. 
    • The old gates had been in place since 1923. They were refurbished...
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  • For hire: ten REnEW energy-efficient retrofitters

    Aug 29, 2012

    Graduation marks the start of new opportunities for REnEW graduates: FortisBC and BC Hydro program continues to support training in energy efficient construction
     

    SURREY, B.C. – August 28, 2012: Ten participants in the Residential Energy Efficiency Works (REnEW) training program, funded by Forti...

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  • Revitalizing BC Hydro's Aging Power Poles

    Aug 20, 2012

    VANCOUVER – BC Hydro is advising Surrey, Langley, Quesnel, Fort Nelson, Powell River, Kamloops, Dawson Creek and Pouce Coupe residents that crews will be out replacing power poles in their regions over the next several months. The work is part of BC Hydro’s ongoing maintenance program that will s...

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  • Sharing the responsibility for electrical safety

    Aug 9, 2012

    August 9, 2012

    Sharing the responsibility for electrical safety

    VANCOUVER – BC Hydro and customers all play a role in electrical safety now and in the future. The installation of new meters throughout the province involves a visit to every customer and provides a unique opportunity for BC Hydro t...

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  • High wire act over Indian Arm

    Jul 19, 2012

    July 20, 2012

    High wire act over Indian Arm

    Two 230 kilovolt transmission lines stretch high above Indian Arm inlet in the Lower Mainland for over a kilometre. So how do you go about maintaining the transmission line when it’s inaccessible by land or water? Use a helicopter!

    An innovative work me...

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  • Vancouver Island First Nation celebrates new BC Hydro service

    Jul 9, 2012

    July 9, 2012                                                                                                                   

    Vancouver Island First Nation celebrates new BC Hydro service

    Port Alberni – A First Nations community on central Vancouver Island now has more reliable power thanks to ...

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  • Companies shortlisted to build new John Hart generating station

    Jul 6, 2012

    Companies shortlisted to build new John Hart generating station

    Campbell River – BC Hydro has shortlisted three companies to design and construct a replacement for the 65-year-old John Hart generating station on Campbell River. The replacement facility will improve power reliability and seismic s...

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  • BC Hydro Smart Metering update

    Jul 3, 2012

    July 3, 2012
     
    BC Hydro Smart Metering update

    VANCOUVER – The installation phase of BC Hydro’s smart meter program is 75 per cent complete and nearly 1.4 million smart meters have been installed across the province.

    Independent testing confirms smart meter banks safe
    Planetworks Consulting, a Nor...

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  • Water safety is no laughing matter

    Jun 28, 2012

    June 28, 2012

    Preventable Drowning Deaths Highest in July and August
    Shifts in attitudes are key to preventing serious injuries

    Vancouver, BC – As we head into the July long weekend, Preventable, along with the Canadian Red Cross and BC Hydro are reminding everyone to practice water safety this s...

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  • We Wai Kai Nation and Wei Wai Kum Nation sign agreement for John Hart project

    Jun 28, 2012

    June 28, 2012
                       
    We Wai Kai Nation and Wei Wai Kum Nation sign agreement for John Hart project
     
    Campbell River, B.C. – BC Hydro is pleased to announce the signing of an impact benefit agreement with the We Wai Kai Nation (Cape Mudge Indian Band) and the Wei Wai Kum Nation (Campb...

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  • BC Fish and Wildlife Benefit from Restoration and Research Projects

    Jun 20, 2012

    June 20, 2012

    The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) has announced funding towards fish and wildlife research and restoration projects in watersheds stretching across BC from Vancouver Island to the Shuswap.

    Coho, pink and sockeye salmon, grizzlies, mule deer and marmots are among the ...

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  • Kamloops' resident wins energy-efficient makeover

    Jun 13, 2012

    June 14, 2012

    Energy-efficient Power Smart home makeover

    Kamloops resident Sheila Anderson has won an energy-efficient home makeover!   

    3,000 people from across BC sent in their tips on how they are smart with their power to BC Hydro’s “Power is Precious Pointers” contest. Ms. Anderson’s name wa...

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  • BC Hydro breaks ground for Prince George regional office

    Jun 8, 2012

    June 11, 2012

    PRINGE GEORGE – BC Hydro is building a new regional operations centre in Prince George. At an event today, Hon. Pat Bell, MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie,Hon. Shirley Bond, MLA for Prince George-Valemount, Shari Green, Mayor of Prince George, Councillor Louella Nome, Lheidli T’enneh...

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  • Transport Canada and BC Hydro reach agreement on next stage of Rock Bay clean up

    Jun 7, 2012

    Transport Canada and BC Hydro reach agreement on next stage of Rock Bay clean up
     
    Victoria, British Columbia – Transport Canada and BC Hydro have reached an agreement to complete the next phase (Stage 3) of the Rock Bay Remediation Project in Victoria. This will help restore the bay and foreshor...

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  • Help shape B.C.'s energy future: BC Hydro seeks public feedback on long-term power plan

    Jun 4, 2012

    June 4, 2012

    Help shape B.C.’s energy future: BC Hydro seeks public feedback on long-term power plan

    Vancouver – BC Hydro has developed a draft plan to meet provincial electricity demand forecasted to grow by 50 per cent over the next 20 years as a result of economic expansion and population grow...

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  • BC Hydro Smart Metering update

    May 4, 2012

    May 4, 2012
     

    BC Hydro Smart Metering update


    VANCOUVER – BC Hydro has put in over 1.1 million smart meters across the province  and installation is now more than 60 per cent complete.

    Once smart meters are  fully operational they will:

    • Help get the lights back on faster during  power outage...
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  • BC Hydro and Columbia Power to complete Arrow Lakes Reservoir boat ramp improvement

    Apr 28, 2012

    April 28, 2012            

    BC Hydro and Columbia Power to complete
    Arrow Lakes Reservoir boat ramp improvement

    Castlegar, BC – BC Hydro and Columbia Power are pleased to announce a partnership to complete the remaining Arrow Lakes Reservoir boat ramp improvement projects. Under the terms of the ...

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  • Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program: Columbia Region

    Apr 26, 2012

    News Release – April 26, 2012

    Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program announces Columbia Region funding and projects for 2012-2013

    The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) has confirmed its $4 million budget and key projects for 2012-2013 in the Columbia Region. Funds are provided through...

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  • Downed transmission towers cause outages in Aiyansh and Stewart

    Apr 25, 2012

    April 25, 2012

    Downed transmission towers cause outages in Aiyansh and Stewart

    PRINCE GEORGE, BC – Two transmission towers have been downed due to a falling tree on the Skeena-Aiyansh line serving the communities of Stewart and Aiyansh. The towers are located approximately 14 kilometres north of ...

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  • Great young minds think alike: save the planet!

    Apr 23, 2012

    Ever wonder what your kids are thinking about? We dropped into Vancouver’s Lord Strathcona School to find out.

    On April 19, the leadership students from grade 6 and 7 worked with 35 of their classmates to brainstorm ideas on how to be good to the planet and smart about the future. BC Hydro helped...

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  • Celebrating 50 Years of Affordable Hydro Power

    Apr 5, 2012

    Vancouver – British Columbia’s largest crown corporation, BC Hydro, is marking half a century of providing clean, affordable and reliable electricity to British Columbian families.

    BC Hydro was created in 1962 under the British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority (BC Hydro) Act, which amalgamated ...

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  • BCUC approves Ruskin dam and powerhouse upgrades

    Apr 4, 2012


    April 4, 2012        

    British Columbia Utilities Commission approves Ruskin dam and powerhouse upgrades
    Project to generate jobs, improve safety and provide environmental benefits

    Mission – The British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) has given BC Hydro the green light to proceed with upgrad...

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  • BC Hydro signs agreement to support Northwest Transmission Line

    Mar 21, 2012

    March 21, 2012            

    BC Hydro signs agreement to support Northwest Transmission Line
    Impact Benefit Agreements with Nisga’a Nation and all eight First Nations now signed

    Vancouver – BC Hydro and Kitsumkalum First Nation have signed an impact benefit agreement which will provide training, co...

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  • John Hart Project brings jobs and reliable electricity to Vancouver Island

    Mar 12, 2012

    March 13, 2012            

    John Hart Project brings jobs and reliable electricity to Vancouver Island

    Campbell River – BC Hydro is proceeding with an environmental and regulatory review application for the John Hart upgrade. It is also posting a project procurement RFQ on BC Bid later today. One ...

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  • Turn daylight savings into energy savings

    Mar 9, 2012

    March 9, 2012

    Turn daylight savings into energy savings
     BC Hydro offers seasonal tips and in-store lighting specials

    Vancouver, B.C. – Early this Sunday clocks spring forward, and it’s time to put that extra hour of sunlight and longer days to work by springing into energy savings:

    • As tempe...
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  • BCUC dismisses application against smart meters

    Mar 8, 2012

    March 8, 2012

    BCUC dismisses application against smart meters
    BC Hydro confirms modernization program progressing well

    The BC Utilities Commission (BCUC) issued a decision earlier this week dismissing an application by an anti-smart meter group to place an injunction on the project. The BCUC dism...

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  • Labour market study shows Northwest B.C. to experience economic boom due to construction of new transmission line and other projects

    Jan 24, 2012

    Jan. 26, 2012            

    Labour market study shows Northwest B.C. to experience economic boom due to construction of new transmission line and other projects

    Human resources strategy released to address skilled labour shortage
     
    Terrace  – Labour market research released today shows BC Hydro’s N...

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  • Cold, snowy weather means high power needs across BC

    Jan 17, 2012

    January 17, 2012

    Cold, snowy weather means high power needs across B.C.
    BC Hydro’s tips to help lighten the load and stay warm and safe…

    Vancouver, B.C. – Cold and snowy is the forecast for B.C. this week, and that means two things from a power perspective:  1) If there’s a power outage, have a ...

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  • BC Hydro to purchase clean power from Nanaimo Forest Products

    Jan 4, 2012


    January 4, 2012            

    BC Hydro to purchase clean power from Nanaimo Forest Products Ltd. green energy project

    Nanaimo, B.C. – Starting in 2013, Nanaimo Forest Products Ltd. will be generating and selling clean power to BC Hydro. Under its Integrated Power Offer, BC Hydro has signed a 15-ye...

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  • Prince George woman wins BC Hydro Team Power Smart Photo Contest

    Dec 19, 2011

    December 19, 2011        

    Prince George woman wins BC Hydro Team Power Smart Photo Contest

    Prince George, B.C. – Christmas is coming early this year for Prince George resident Tammy Gock. Gock has won BC Hydro’s 2011 Team Power Smart Photo Contest for her creative depiction of a power-saving tip:...

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  • Operation Cereal Box: BC Hydro partners with food banks

    Dec 9, 2011

    December 12, 2011           
     

    Operation Cereal Box: BC Hydro partners with food banks to distribute energy savings kits to low-income customers

    Vancouver, B.C. – Thousands of cereal boxes headed for Metro Vancouver food banks this month don’t just pack nutrition. They also include a tip and an o...

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  • BC Hydro awards construction contract for Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Line

    Dec 8, 2011

    December 8, 2011                                                                                                                 

    Project will ensure reliable power supply to growing economy, population of Lower Mainland
     
    Vancouver – BC Hydro reached a major milestone today with the announcement...

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  • Holiday lighting tips

    Dec 8, 2011

    December 8, 2011

     Holiday lighting tips for a bright, safe and energy-efficient season!

    Vancouver – Part of the charm and tradition of the holiday season are the lights: colourful twinkling lights brightening up the long nights and lighting up people’s homes. With that in mind, BC Hydro is offeri...

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  • Keep warm and save money this winter using BC Hydro's top 7 tips

    Dec 1, 2011

    December 1, 2011

    Keep warm and save money this winter using BC Hydro’s top 7 tips

    As the days gets shorter and the weather gets colder, energy demand across the province almost doubles as people turn up the heat and keep lights and electronics on for longer. In fact, space heating costs alone can...

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  • BC Hydro files amended revenue requirements application with BCUC

    Nov 24, 2011

    November 24, 2011

    Vancouver, BC – BC Hydro today filed an Amended Revenue Requirements Application (RRA) with the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) for fiscal years 2012-2014.

    The application confirms a 50 per cent reduction to the cumulative rate increase filed with the BCUC in Marc...

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  • Smart Metering Program Update

    Nov 23, 2011

    November 23, 2011

    Smart Metering Program Update

    VANCOUVER – As BC Hydro continues with its regeneration program, including modernizing its electricity grid while also keeping rates low, the Smart Metering Program is progressing well and will save customers approximately $70 million over the next ...

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  • BC Hydro puts full resources on safe, fast power restoration after Lower Mainland major windstorm

    Nov 22, 2011

    November 22, 2011

    BC Hydro puts full resources on safe, fast power restoration after Lower Mainland major windstorm

    Vancouver – Storm season arrived with a wallop last night with winds gusting over 100 kilometres an hour in the Lower Mainland. At its peak, about 83,000 customers were without powe...

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  • BC Hydro Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure Update #14: Helicopter to help restring transmission lines across the river on Saturday

    Nov 18, 2011

    BC Hydro Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure Update #14: Helicopter helps restring transmission lines across the river

    Friday, Nov. 18, 2011

    SURREY – , BC Hydro will continue work for the restoration of the 230-kilovolt transmission line that crosses the Fraser River near the Port Mann Bridg...

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  • Lax Kw’alaam sign impact benefit agreement in support of Northwest Transmission Line

    Nov 18, 2011

    Lax Kw’alaam sign impact benefit agreement in support of Northwest Transmission Line

    Vancouver – BC Hydro is pleased to announce that an impact benefit agreement has been signed with the Lax Kw’alaam Indian Band which will provide training programs, contracting and jobs, and other economic develo...

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  • Be prepared! Storm season is here

    Nov 10, 2011

    November 10, 2011

    Be prepared! Storm season is here

    Vancouver – This fall and winter, B.C. continues to be influenced by La Niña which means colder and wetter than normal conditions. While this might be good news for winter sports enthusiasts, it also serves as a reminder that storm season is he...

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  • Gitxsan Houses sign agreement in support of Northwest Transmission Line

    Nov 4, 2011

    NEWS RELEASE

    November 4, 2011           

    Gitxsan Houses sign agreement in support of Northwest Transmission Line

    Vancouver – BC Hydro is pleased to announce that an impact benefit agreement has been signed with the Gitxsan Huwilp (Houses) of Tenimgyet, Wii Hlengwax and Lelt which will provide tra...

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  • Charles Reid named BC Hydro's Acting President and CEO

    Oct 31, 2011

    October 31, 2011         

    Charles Reid named BC Hydro’s Acting President and CEO

    VANCOUVER, BC – Dan Doyle, Chair of the Board of BC Hydro announced today that the Board of Directors has named Executive Vice-President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer Charles Reid as BC Hydro’s Acting Preside...

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  • President and CEO Dave Cobb leaving BC Hydro for leadership position in private sector

    Oct 19, 2011

    October 19, 2011                                                                             

    President and CEO Dave Cobb leaving BC Hydro for leadership position in private sector

    VANCOUVER, BC – Dan Doyle, Chair of the Board of BC Hydro announced today that BC Hydro President and CEO Dave Cobb ...

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  • Photo contest: show us how smart you are with your power!

    Oct 4, 2011

    Oct. 4, 2011        

    Think you’re so power smart?  Take a picture and show us!

    Vancouver, B.C. – A picture’s worth a thousand words and, during Power Smart month, that picture could win you a thousand-dollar-plus camera! Take a photo of how smart you are with your power and you could win a Nikon ...

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  • Recycle your old fridge! Fridge Buy-Back Program

    Sep 29, 2011

    Sept. 29, 2011

    Why do B.C. homes have the fewest second fridges in Canada?

    Vancouver, BC – British Columbians have fewer second refrigerators than anywhere else in Canada, which is great because a second fridge is one of the highest energy users in a home.

    The question though is, why is B.C. so ...

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  • BC Hydro update #13 – Electricity flowing again through BC Hydro’s 500-kilovolt transmission circuit on the Fraser River

    Sep 14, 2011

    Wednesday, Sept. 14
     

    VANCOUVER – Good news: electricity is flowing again through BC Hydro’s 500-kilovolt transmission line across the Fraser River near the Port Mann bridge. The line was re-energized this past weekend after it was taken out-of-service in late June following damage in the spring....

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  • BC Hydro statement following magnitude 6.7 earthquake off of Vancouver Island

    Sep 9, 2011

    September 9th, 2011

    BC Hydro released the following statement today following the magnitude 6.7 earthquake off of Vancouver Island:

    "BC Hydro's top priority is safety and which includes emergency preparedness and we have procedures in place when an earthquake -- of any size -- occurs. After today...

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  • Regeneration of the Stave Falls Spillway Gates provides opportunities for business in Richmond

    Sep 9, 2011

    Regeneration of the Stave Falls Spillway Gates provides opportunities for business in Richmond

    The first set of new spillway gates destined for the Stave Falls Blind Slough Dam in Mission are being completed at Ebco Industries in Richmond.

    The replacement of the radial spillway gates at Stave Fal...

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  • Construction Contract Awarded for Northwest Transmission Line

    Sep 1, 2011

    Sept. 1, 2011           

    Construction Contract Awarded for Northwest Transmission Line 
     
    Vancouver – BC Hydro has chosen a contractor to design and build the Northwest Transmission Line (NTL). The successful companies are Valard Construction, a Quanta Services company (NYSE: PWR), and Burns & Mc...

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  • BC Hydro, Okanagan Nation Alliance, Nlaka’pamux Nation Tribal Council and the Upper Nicola Band sign Landmark Agreement

    Aug 26, 2011

    August 26, 2011             

    BC Hydro, Okanagan Nation Alliance, Nlaka’pamux Nation Tribal Council and the Upper Nicola Band sign Landmark Agreement
     
    Merritt, B.C. – Through a process of relationship building, the Upper Nicola Band (UNB), the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA), the Nlaka’pamux Natio...

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  • BC Hydro update #11: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Aug 5, 2011

    3:30 p.m. PDT -  Friday, August 5

    SURREY – BC Hydro is taking the next significant step in securing and stabilizing a 500-kilovolt transmission tower on the south side of the Fraser River near the Port Mann Bridge. On Saturday, Aug. 6 crews will begin driving eight 100-foot-high steel piles 36 f...

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  • NEW photos & video - Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Jul 27, 2011

    Wednesday, July 27, 2011
    Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    New photos and video: On Tuesday, BC Hydro used a low flying helicopter to help with the installation of a guy wire (support wire) between the leaning 500-kilovolt transmission tower near the south side of the Port Mann Bridge and...

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  • BC Hydro update #10: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure 9:15 AM PDT - Tuesday, July 26

    Jul 26, 2011

    SURREY – BC Hydro will be using a low flying helicopter this afternoon as part of the work to install a guy wire (support wire) between the leaning 500 kilovolt transmission tower near the south side of the Port Mann Bridge and the next closest inland tower 1,743 feet away. This work will further...

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  • New Transmission Structures in place; Tumbler Ridge Planned Outage set for Thursday, July 28 from 7 AM – 7 PM

    Jul 25, 2011

    BC Hydro advises that its crews have constructed the new transmission poles that will bypass structures previously impacted by erosion. This will stabilize power to the area and will make the electricity supply more robust for the long term for Tumbler Ridge.

    In consultation with local authoritie...

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  • Tumbler Ridge Transmission Structure Update July 22, 3:30 p.m.

    Jul 22, 2011

    BC Hydro advises that the new transmission pole structures intended to ensure Tumbler Ridge maintains reliable power are expected to be in place by the weekend, after which conductor lines will be strung over a span of 900 metres.

    Planned Outage Next Week:

    A planned outage will be required to con...

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  • BC Hydro fiscal 2011 results available at bchydro.com

    Jul 20, 2011

    July 20, 2011            

    BC Hydro fiscal 2011 results available at bchydro.com

    Regeneration program to upgrade and renew province’s electricity system continues through fiscal 2012

    Vancouver, B.C. – As BC Hydro continues to provide and invest in clean, reliable electricity for British Columbians...

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  • Tumbler Ridge Transmission Structure Update July 18

    Jul 18, 2011

    Tumbler Ridge Transmission Structure Update July 18, 9:00 a.m.

    BC Hydro advises that its crews have made progress over the weekend in constructing new transmission structures on both sides of High Hat Creek that will bypass the threatened structures. Despite challenging field conditions, access t...

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  • Tumbler Ridge Transmission Structure Update July 15

    Jul 16, 2011

    Please read the latest, July 18 9:00 a.m. update

    Tumbler Ridge Transmission Structure Update July 15, 10:00 p.m.

    BC Hydro advises that the wooden transmission structure servicing Tumbler Ridge continues to be impacted by unstable soil and excessive water.   Our primary concern is for the safety o...

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  • Tumbler Ridge Transmission Tower Update July 14

    Jul 16, 2011

    Please read the latest, July 18 9:00 a.m. update

    Tumbler Ridge Transmission Tower Update July 14, 5:30 p.m.

    BC Hydro advises that the wooden transmission structure located 68 kms south of the WAC Bennett Dam, between Hudson’s Hope and Chetwyn that services Tumbler Ridge is at greater risk of fall...

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  • BC Hydro update #9: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Jul 13, 2011

    1:15 p.m. PDT – Wednesday, July 13

    VANCOUVER – With water levels expected to rise and crest today and tomorrow on the south Fraser River, BC Hydro is continuing to stabilize a 500-kilovolt transmission tower and the surrounding area on the south side of the river that has been impacted by apparen...

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  • Photos: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Jul 12, 2011

    BC Hydro's operations continue for the repair and stabilization of the transmission lines across the Fraser River near the Port Mann Bridge in Surrey, after a 230-kilovolt transmission tower fell into the river on Monday, July 4 - mostly likely caused by high water flows accelerating erosion.

    Pho...

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  • Transmission project will meet demand for electricity, economic development

    Jul 12, 2011

    July 11, 2011                                                                                                              

    Transmission project will meet demand for electricity, economic development

    Vancouver, B.C. – BC Hydro filed today an application with the British Columbia Utilities Commiss...

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  • BC Hydro update #7: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Jul 8, 2011

    6:30 p.m. PDT; Friday, July 8

     
    VANCOUVER – As BC Hydro’s work continued today near the Port Mann Bridge in Surrey to stabilize a 500-kilovolt transmission tower on the south side of the Fraser River, operations were temporarily halted between 2 and 5 p.m. after a crane laying riprap made conta...

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  • BC Hydro update #6: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Jul 7, 2011

    12:00 p.m. PDT – Thursday, July 7

    VANCOUVER – As BC Hydro enters day three of 24-hour operations for the repair and stabilization of the transmission lines across the Fraser River near the Port Mann bridge, crews will focus on the following actions while maintaining public and employee safety an...

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  • BC Hydro update #5: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    Jul 6, 2011

    BC Hydro update #5: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure

    3 p.m. PDT; Wednesday, July 6

    VANCOUVER – BC Hydro is making steady progress in ensuring the stability of transmission towers and repairing damage caused by the fall of a 230-kilovolt transmission tower in the Fraser River in Surrey on ...

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  • BC Hydro update #3: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure 10:30 a.m. PST July 05

    Jul 5, 2011

    BC Hydro update #3: Fraser River Transmission Infrastructure 10:30 a.m. PST July 05

    Coquitlam, B.C. -- BC Hydro continues to manage transmission infrastructure stability along the Fraser River near Coquitlam and Surrey. BC Hydro and contractor crews have worked throughout the night, in conjunctio...

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  • B.C. meets six per cent energy reduction goal for Game 7

    Jun 17, 2011

    June 17, 2011 

    B.C. meets six per cent energy reduction goal for Game 7

    Team Power Smart member Ryan Kesler and Vancouver Canucks congratulated on an electrifying season

    Vancouver, B.C. – BC Hydro is congratulating its customers for rising to the challenge of reducing energy use during Game 7 by ...

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  • Agreement Provides New Opportunities for St’át’imc

    Jun 16, 2011

    June 15, 2011                                                                                                                                 

    Agreement Provides New Opportunities for St’át’imc

    Lillooet – BC Hydro and the Province of British Columbia joined with the St’át’imc in Lillooet on Tuesd...

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  • Canucks Playoff load impacts continue

    May 25, 2011

    You always hear people say that individual actions can add up to make a difference. Now, we are seeing proof of that with the Vancouver Canucks Stanley Cup playoff run.

    With some simple interpretation of the provincial electricity load it seems that overall electricity demand drops during game ...

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  • Site C Project moving to Environmental Assessment Process

    May 18, 2011

    INFORMATION BULLETIN

    May 18, 2011

    SITE C PROJECT MOVING TO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS

    Project Description Report Submitted to Environmental Assessment Agencies

    FORT ST. JOHN – BC Hydro has submitted a project description report for the Site C Clean Energy Project (Site C) to federal and pro...

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  • Tahltan Nation Signs Agreements in support of Northwest Transmission Line

    May 17, 2011

    May 17, 2011            

    Tahltan Nation Signs Agreements in support of Northwest Transmission Line

    Victoria B.C. – Two agreements signed yesterday will provide the Tahltan Nation with economic development funds, jobs, training and skills development during construction of the Northwest Transmissi...

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  • BC Hydro and RCMP increase safety on Highway 23 North from Revelstoke to Mica dam

    May 12, 2011

    May 12, 2011                                                                                                                      

    BC Hydro and RCMP increase safety on Highway 23 North from Revelstoke to Mica dam  

    Revelstoke, B.C. – BC Hydro and the RCMP are working together to make Highway 23 N...

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  • BC Hydro awards civil contract for installation of additional generating units at Mica Generating Station

    May 3, 2011

    May 4, 2011             

    BC Hydro awards civil contract for installation of additional generating units at Mica Generating Station

    Contract will create 121 person years of direct employment and benefit Columbia basin region

    Vancouver, B.C. – As part of its regeneration program to upgrade and rene...

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  • Public asked to help track rare owl by listening for bird's call

    May 2, 2011

    NELSON – Breeding season for the western screech-owl has begun, and with it comes a bird call that the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) is asking the public to listen for.

    Listed as an endangered species both federally and provincially, the FWCP is looking to track these owls to bett...

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  • Sexqeltkemc of the Secwepemc Nation to benefit from Mica Expansion Project facilities

    Apr 18, 2011

    April 18, 2011           

    Sexqeltkemc of the Secwepemc Nation to benefit from Mica Expansion Project facilities

    Project part of BC Hydro’s regeneration program; will generate clean power for 80,000 additional B.C. homes

    Revelstoke – As part of the regeneration program to meet British Columbia’s g...

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  • Statement from BC Hydro Executive Vice President of Transmission and Distribution Greg Reimer on negotiations with the Gitanyow

    Apr 13, 2011

    The following statement was released Tuesday, April 12, 2011 by BC Hydro Executive Vice President of Transmission and Distribution Greg Reimer on negotiations with the Gitanyow with regard to the construction of the proposed Northwest Transmission Line.

    “The Gitanyow is clearly frustrated with th...

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  • St’át’imc vote yes to historic St’át’imc Hydro Agreement

    Apr 12, 2011

    April 12, 2011       

    St’át’imc vote yes to historic St’át’imc Hydro Agreement

    LILLOOET, B.C. – The St’át’imc have voted yes to a Settlement Agreement with the Province of British Columbia and BC Hydro that provides mitigation, compensation and an ongoing long-term relationship to address their g...

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  • BC Hydro selects Itron as supplier of Smart Meters

    Apr 11, 2011


    April 11, 2011             No. 1

    BC Hydro selects Itron as supplier of smart metering system and meter data management system

    VANCOUVER -- British Columbia’s electricity system is one more major step closer to modernization today with the confirmation of Itron Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) as BC Hydro’s ...

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  • BC Hydro reports close to twice as much Earth Hour savings over 2010

    Mar 27, 2011

    Encouraging sign for ongoing conservation

    VANCOUVER – British Columbians saved 117 megawatt hours of electricity and reduced the provincial electricity load by 1.8 percent during Earth Hour last night – almost twice as much as the 64 megawatt hours and 1.04 percent saved last year – and the equiv...

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  • BC Hydro signs benefit agreement with Nisga’a Nation in respect of Northwest Transmission Line project

    Mar 4, 2011

    BC Hydro signs benefit agreement with Nisga’a Nation in respect of Northwest Transmission Line project

    New Aiyansh, B.C. – BC Hydro announced today the signing this week of a benefit agreement with the Nisga’a Nation that will provide the Nisga’a Nation with financial and other benefits related t...

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  • BC Hydro doubles local trades training funds as Mica expansion starts this spring

    Mar 1, 2011

    March 1, 2011                                                                                                                      

    BC Hydro doubles local trades training funds as Mica expansion starts this spring

    Revelstoke, B.C. – With the start of construction on the Mica Units 5 and 6 Projec...

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  • Support for BC Hydro's Energy Plans

    Feb 22, 2011

    Vision Critical Inc. of Vancouver was commissioned by BC Hydro to conduct a poll of 1,000 British Columbians in BC Hydro’s service area between February 14 to 18. The following are highlights of this poll.

    Almost three quarters (72%) of British Columbians indicate they are confident or very confi...

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  • System Maintenance and Life Extension programs

    Feb 21, 2011

    BC Hydro delivers electricity to its customers through a comprehensive network of transmission and distribution lines, substations, rights-of-way, steel towers and utility poles. Significant investments are needed annually to maintain this vast system and extend the life of assets to ensure a saf...

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  • Power Smart and Demand Side Management

    Feb 21, 2011

    Energy conservation and efficiency are the best and most cost-effective way to meet the province’s growing electricity needs and will be an integral part of the province’s clean energy future. In fact, BC Hydro is working to meet at least 66 per cent of new demand through conservation and efficie...

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  • Smart Metering Program

    Feb 21, 2011

    The Smart Metering Program is an important part of BC Hydro’s overall capital program of modernizing and renewing our province’s energy infrastructure to meet the growing demand for electricity in British Columbia.

    The electricity grid has changed very little over the past 50 years. As mechanical...

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  • BC Hydro announces details of three-year capital plan

    Feb 21, 2011

     
    February 22, 2011             No. 54

    BC Hydro’s $6 billion, 3-year regeneration plan meets growing power needs
    $800-million Ruskin Dam and Powerhouse upgrade to renew 80-year-old facility

    Vancouver – With aging infrastructure in need of significant upgrades and B.C.’s demand for electricity pro...

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  • Revelstoke Generating Station Unit 5

    Feb 21, 2011

    To ensure British Columbia continues to have the electricity it needs at peak times, BC Hydro is investing in the renewal of the Revelstoke Dam and Generating Station to increase its capacity.

    Originally designed as a six-unit facility, Revelstoke began operation in 1984 with four generating unit...

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  • John Hart Generation Station Replacement

    Feb 21, 2011

    Located within the city of Campbell River on Vancouver Island, the John Hart Generating Station has been operating since 1947. It is one of the oldest and most important generating facilities in BC Hydro’s hydroelectric system on Vancouver Island.  It was the first of three generating stations co...

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  • Mica Generating Station Units 5 and 6

    Feb 21, 2011

    BC Hydro is reinvesting in the Mica Generating Station to ensure British Columbians continue to have electricity they need during peak times of demand.

    Originally designed as a six-unit facility, the installation of generating Units 5 and 6 were deferred. Currently, Mica’s four generating units p...

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  • Gordon M. Shrum Generating Station

    Feb 21, 2011

    To increase the reliability and capacity of BC’s energy supply, BC Hydro is reinvesting in the Gordon M. Shrum (GMS) Generating Station.

    The biggest of BC Hydro’s generating stations, GMS is one of the most important components of BC Hydro’s electrical system, located next to the W.A.C. Bennett D...

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  • Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Line

    Feb 21, 2011

    The transmission circuits that bring power from generation resources in the north and southern Interior of the province to the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are some of the most critical paths in the transmission grid. Built in the early 1970s, the circuits are reaching the limits of their ...

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  • Vancouver City Centre Transmission Project

    Feb 21, 2011

    Demand for electricity in the Mount Pleasant/South False Creek area of Vancouver is expected to increase by almost 40 per cent over the next 10 years, and by as much as 82 per cent over the next 30 years. The major underground transmission line that currently serves this area is more than 50 year...

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  • Columbia Valley Transmission Line

    Feb 21, 2011

    Like many regions in British Columbia, the Columbia Valley’s demand for electricity is growing. The existing system has reached its capacity and it is not uncommon for the communities between Invermere and Golden to experience power outages.

    The Columbia Valley Transmission (CVT) Project is the m...

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  • Dawson Creek/Chetwynd Area Transmission Project

    Feb 21, 2011

    The demand for electricity in the South Peace area is greater than any other region in British Columbia. In fact, over the next 10 years, the annual rate of load growth is expected to be 10 times greater than for the BC Hydro system as a whole. This rapid increase is largely due to natural gas ex...

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  • Northwest Transmission Line

    Feb 21, 2011

    The Northwest Transmission Line (NTL) Project is designed to provide an interconnection point for future industrial development and clean power projects in Northwest B.C. Historically, much of northwestern British Columbia has lacked this reliable, long-term electricity infrastructure, yet the re...

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  • Ruskin Dam and Powerhouse Upgrade

    Feb 21, 2011

    Since the 1930s, the Ruskin Dam and Generating Station has provided a clean and reliable supply of electricity to homes and businesses in the Lower Mainland and other areas of the province. After more than 80 years of service, the facility is in need of an upgrade. BC Hydro is planning a major in...

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  • Sturdy Creek Dam on Haida Gwaii to be decommissioned

    Feb 8, 2011

    February 8, 2011       

    Sturdy Creek Dam on Haida Gwaii to be decommissioned

    QUEEN CHARLOTTE – BC Hydro is moving forward with a plan to decommission a small concrete dam on Haida Gwaii that has not been used in many years. Built in the 1940s, the four-metre high, 11-metre wide Sturdy Creek Dam h...

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  • BC Hydro selects B.C. company Corix to install smart meters and international experts Capgemini to integrate modern technology

    Jan 25, 2011

    January 25, 2011             

    BC Hydro selects B.C. company Corix to install smart meters and international experts Capgemini to integrate modern technology
    Direct wage contribution anticipated to be $30 million to $40 million

    Vancouver – BC Hydro’s Smart Metering Program has reached another imp...

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  • Maintaining minimum flow from Revelstoke Dam to benefit fish, habitat

    Jan 14, 2011

    REVELSTOKE, B.C. – In an effort to benefit fish and fish habitat, and following four years of data collection on mid-Columbia river productivity, BC Hydro has changed its operations at Revelstoke Dam to discharge water at or above a minimum flow.

    This minimum flow, as recommended by the 2007 Col...

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  • BC Hydro Smart Metering program will provide major benefits to customers

    Jan 14, 2011

    January 18, 2011            

    BC Hydro Smart Metering Program to provide major benefits to customers: enhanced system safety, reliability and more

    Vancouver – As part of BC Hydro’s ongoing effort to keep customers informed and engaged in the opportunities offered by smart meters the utility today ...

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  • Statement regarding Lauren Woolstencroft

    Jan 10, 2011

    VANCOUVER – BC Hydro President and CEO Dave Cobb, issued the following statement today regarding the induction of Lauren Woolstencroft, paralympian and BC Hydro employee, into the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame.

    “Lauren’s remarkable performance during the 2010 Paralympic Games inspired our nation and o...

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  • Government and BC Hydro initial historic Final Agreement with St’át’imc

    Jan 5, 2011

    January 5, 2011             

    Government and BC Hydro initial historic Final Agreement with St’át’imc

    Lillooet, B.C. – The Province of British Columbia and BC Hydro have initialled a Final Agreement with the St’át’imc and each of its 11 member bands that, once ratified, will address the longstandi...

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  • BC Hydro launches mobile-friendly power outage website

    Dec 17, 2010

    VANCOUVER – New mobile BC Hydro website to help customers during outages
    Fingertip access now available for all information at
    www.bchydro.com

     

    On the first official day of winter, BC Hydro is pleased to introduce a new mobile-friendly version of www.bchydro.com that makes it easier for customer...

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  • BC Hydro and Chevrolet charge into clean mobility future

    Dec 8, 2010

    VANCOUVER – Vehicle fleets in B.C. are going green thanks to a new partnership between BC Hydro and Chevrolet Canada. BC Hydro will work with Chevrolet to help place 15 Chevrolet Volts into the fleets of B.C. based organizations late next summer, with at least two of those vehicles being added to...

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  • A rates update from BC Hydro CEO Dave Cobb

    Dec 2, 2010

    Posted by Dave Cobb

    Dear Customers,

    As we get ready to close out an exciting year for our province, I wanted to take this opportunity to update you about what you can expect in the coming year as we celebrate BC Hydro's 50th anniversary and embark on an important period for our company and the fu...

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  • BC Hydro provides incentive to Nanaimo Forest Products for energy efficiency retrofit

    Nov 24, 2010

    Power Smart conservation and efficiency initiatives benefit all BC Hydro customers

    NANAIMO – BC Hydro presented $1 million to Nanaimo Forest Products Ltd., Harmac Pulp Mill, today in a partnership to help the pulp mill modernize their vacuum pump system which will result in significant energy sav...

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  • BC Hydro works with mills to minimize impact of Keenleyside lock maintenance

    Nov 15, 2010

    Posted by Sabrina Locicero

    When James Stark became the plant manager for Hugh Keenleyside Dam near Castlegar in September of 2009, he quickly saw an opportunity to work more closely with BC Hydro's downstream stakeholders. So he set up quarterly meetings between BC Hydro, Interfor and Zellstoff C...

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  • Partnership brings clean energy to Lillooet Valley First Nations

    Nov 12, 2010

    First communities hooked up through BC Hydro's Remote Community Electrification program

    TIPELLA, B.C. – Four St'at'imc communities in the Lillooet Valley – Skatin, Baptiste Smith, Port Douglas and Tipella – are now connected to the BC Hydro grid system and will now receive clean and reliable powe...

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