WHEREAS many regions of British Columbia are in need of power line improvements, substation upgrades and distribution system expansionsenhancements that will provide adequate, stable, reliable power; AND WHEREAS all regions of BC are reliant on the power and distribution system for community stability, jobs and economic growth: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM lobby the provincial government and BC Hydro to make the power line and distribution system improvements a high priority for all regions of British Columbia.
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing British Columbias generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure is ageing, like many electricity grids across North America. BC Hydro identified the highest priority projects and is taking action necessary to ensure it can supply growing demand while meeting North American reliability standards. BC Hydro is a regulated utility that recovers its costs and a set rate of return for the Province which helps fund Government programs. The cost of reinvesting in provincial generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure will be borne by BC Hydro ratepayers. Consequently, Government must balance the need for renewing the provincial grid with the impacts these improvements will have on ratepayers. Access to electricity has become a foundational piece of our society. The Province recognizes the importance of reliable power to both community stability and economic development. However, the Province also recognizes that there is a limit to what ratepayers can afford. Accordingly, BC Hydro will continue with its plan to address the highest priority infrastructure needs while mitigating rate impacts.