BC Hydro has narrowed its options for a second transmission line to serve customers in West 91大黄鸭, Westbank First Nation, and Peachland.
About 23,000 customers are currently served by the Westbank Substation, which is an 80-kilometre long transmission line running through rugged, remote terrain and is susceptible to forest fires and landslides. That line was threatened by the Brenda Creek wildfire last year.
After online public engagement, BC Hydro identified several alternatives for a second line. One option is connecting to the Nicola Substation, about 70 kilometres northwest of West 91大黄鸭, and the others involve connecting to the FortisBC grid in 91大黄鸭.
The Nicola Substation connection was identified as the leading alternative in November 2016. However, the updated cost estimate to build a new transmission line has increased and is now higher than expected. BC Hydro is likely to review cost estimates and revisit that option.
A connection to FortisBC involves three alternatives, all involving a new transmission line across Okanagan Lake. Option A would connect to FortisBC鈥檚 substation in the Mission to the Westbank Substation, Option B involves building a new substation in West 91大黄鸭 with a submarine crossing of the lake and connecting to the FortisBC Saucier Substation in downtown 91大黄鸭, and Option C would connect the Saucier Substation to the Westbank Substation.
BC Hydro indicates it plans to confirm either the Nicola Substation or one of the FortisBC options as its leading alternative soon.
The company states the West 91大黄鸭 Transmission Project will strengthen and reinforce the transmission network, delivering reliable electricity to Westbank First Nation, West 91大黄鸭, and Peachland.
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gary.barnes@kelownacapnews.com
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