Whereas BC Hydro is responsible for connecting newly constructed infrastructure to its power lines; And whereas there are lengthy wait times for BC Hydro to install services for projects that result in an excessive delay in service provision, additional expenses andor a loss of revenue for local governments: Therefore be it resolved UBCM lobby the provincial government to address lengthy wait times for BC Hydro connections so that projects can be connected in a timely fashion.
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovations BC Hydro is committed to providing clean, reliable power to its customers. BC Hydro understands the importance of an electrical connection in meeting a projects timelines. The timeframe for connections depends on the availability of BC Hydro resources, as well as the customer meeting all of the requirements to ensure a safe connection. BC Hydro continues to build on the good relationships with local government and is always prepared to meet, discuss and work closely with them to manage complicated electrical connection projects. We have implemented a MyHydro customer portal for tracking and managing customer distribution projects to improve customer service and enable customers to have more visibility and control of their projects. As part of the Phase 2 Review of BC Hydro, government and BC Hydro are exploring ways to make connections to the grid easier and faster and connection costs more predictable for customers.
BC Hydro In terms of Resolution EB71 asking BC Hydro and the provincial government to address lengthy wait times for BC Hydro connections to newly constructed.infrastructure, please note that we strive to provide good customer service on projects and value our longstanding relationships with the municipalities. We also do recognize that some projects take longer than expected to be energized. We must ensure all new connections are completed safely and meet all BC Hydro and regulatory requirements. To do this, the customer provides the required information in a timely manner for BC Hydro to produce the design and cost estimates which meets the customer, permitting and regulatory requirements. After this stage any changes to the design scope and requirements from the customer may result in the need to restart some of these steps which can delay the issued-for-construction design and the final electrical connection. Specific to Fort St. John, BC Hydro is committed to finding solutions to their concerns and to this end has already held two meetings since this years UBCM convention between BC Hydro staff and City staff. BC Hydro and local governments - and our various partners - need to work together to reduce delays and maintain strong communications from start to finish. Our Distribution Design and Community Relations staff are committed to improving the relationship with the City of Fort St. John over the coming months and years. As well, we have now implemented a MyHydro customer portal for tracking and managing customer distribution projects to improve customer service and enable customers to have more visibility and control of their projects.