WEST KELOWNA – It’s been the source of frustration among residents in West Kelowna and Peachland. Only one power line feeds both communities, meaning if there are problems with that line, tens of thousands of people are affected.
However that will soon be changing. On Thursday afternoon, Premier Christy Clark announced that BC Hydro will build a new transmission line in the Central Okanagan. The new line will strengthen the transmission network to deliver power reliably to the two communities.
“As more people and businesses move to the West Kelowna area, infrastructure has to keep pace,” says Premier Clark. “Over the next ten years, electricity demand is expected to grow by 18 per cent. This addition will ensure a reliable power supply as the economy and communities grow.”
BC Hydro has identified three route options for the new line but the final route won’t be announced until after consultation this spring with the public and First Nations. Timing and budget for the project will also be determined during the consultation process.
West Kelowna is currently powered by an existing 138-kilo-volt transmission line that runs from the Nicola Substation near Merritt to the Westbank Substation in West Kelowna. It travels 80 kilometers through remote, heavily forested terrain where the wildfire risk during the summer is high.
“We had committed several years ago to study the feasibility of a new line and after extensive review we’ve decided this is the right time to invest in an upgrade to West Kelowna’s transmission network,” says Jessica McDonald, president and CEO, BC Hydro. “We will work closely with First Nations, the public and stakeholders to determine the best route option for the community while delivering the project efficiently and prudently.”
“The need for a secondary transmission line to West Kelowna was identified shortly after incorporation in 2007,” says West Kelowna mayor Doug Findlater. “Guaranteeing a dependable power supply in West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, and the District of Peachland provides peace of mind and safety for over 60,000-plus residents. The economic benefit in providing power reliability to West Kelowna and area will be realized immediately. Business will have confidence that their power needs can be met.”
Comments