The BC Energy Regulator (BCER), formerly the BC Oil and Gas Commission, briefed the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako board on Aug. 14 about its new role and responsibilities following adoption of new legislation.
Wade Abbott, BCER鈥檚 director of regulatory strategy, said the Renewable Energy Projects Act, in effect since July 1, expands the regulator鈥檚 mandate beyond oil, gas, hydrogen and related sectors to include certain transmission lines and renewable energy projects, initially focusing on wind and solar. The act makes BCER a single-window permitting agency, with authority under several natural resource statutes, while keeping existing legal requirements intact.
Claire Gibbs, with the Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions, said the act streamlines approvals by consolidating permits, removing environmental assessment requirements for nine BC Hydro wind projects and the North Coast Transmission Line, and allowing for future exemptions for other wind projects. She stressed it does not override local bylaws, remove land from the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), or guarantee project approval.
BCER staff outlined four themes guiding the new regulatory framework: environmental protection, supporting reconciliation, fostering social well-being and public safety. Planned measures include environmental safeguards through baseline studies on wildlife, water and soils, mitigation of impacts and restoration plans from project design through decommissioning. Special attention will be given to risks for birds and bats, and to cumulative effects from multiple activities.
Agricultural protection will involve temporary non-farm use approvals for ALR land that minimize and restore impacts. Community impacts such as noise, visual effects, shadow flicker from turbines and glare from solar panels will require assessment and mitigation. Access restrictions on Crown land must accommodate other uses and protect First Nations鈥� rights. Engagement requirements will see BCER require proponents to consult local governments, First Nations and affected parties before submitting applications, and to submit records showing how concerns were addressed.
Several directors voiced concerns about early-stage projects proceeding without local consultation, the need for local government input to be formally incorporated, and capacity funding for municipalities to review proposals. They also urged coordinated planning for transmission line corridors.
Abbott said the BCER will seek feedback through fall 2025, draft regulations for board approval by March 2026, and maintain decision-making powers to approve, condition or deny projects.
鈥淲e are seeking your feedback on whether there are any issues that we may not have noted, or if there are approaches to mitigation you would like us to apply,鈥� he said.
