Construction of BC Hydro鈥檚 $3 billion North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL) is scheduled to begin in 2026, with the aim of bringing more electricity to the region by 2032.
The project will be built in two phases: construction of the first segment from Prince George to Glenannan is expected to start in summer 2026 with a target in-service date of fall 2030, while the second phase from Glenannan to Terrace will follow in fall 2026, aiming to be operational by summer 2032.
BC Hydro says the new line is needed to meet growing demand from residential, commercial, and industrial users in Northern B.C., where the existing 500-kilovolt transmission system is at capacity.
鈥淲e鈥檙e seeing significant potential growth in the area and have initiated projects to build new lines and twin the existing radial 500-kilovolt system between Prince George and Terrace to meet these significant new loads,鈥� said a BC Hydro spokesperson. 鈥淭his project will also improve reliability in the region.鈥�
The transmission line, running about 450 kilometres, will consist of two new line segments, associated towers, and upgrades to substation and capacitor station infrastructure. A project map and additional information are available on BC Hydro鈥檚 website.
BC Hydro does not anticipate power outages for residents or businesses during the build, but communities can expect to see a higher number of workers in the region.
鈥淲e are working with First Nations and local communities to discuss accommodation and transportation plans for the workers,鈥� the spokesperson said.
To support the project鈥檚 advancement, the provincial government announced earlier this year that the BC Energy Regulator (BCER) will serve as a one-window permitting authority for the NCTL and other high-voltage transmission projects.
Premier David Eby said the move is designed to speed up development while maintaining regulatory oversight.
鈥淲e urgently need to expand our electricity system in the north to meet the needs of growing industries that want to use clean energy to sustain and expand their operations,鈥� he said at the B.C. Natural Resources Forum.
Legislative amendments to enable the BCER鈥檚 expanded role are expected this spring. BC Hydro said this change should streamline permitting and accelerate timelines.
The utility is also working closely with First Nations on route selection and discussions around potential co-ownership. 鈥淲e are currently working with First Nations to identify the leading route for the new line,鈥� the spokesperson said. 鈥淭ogether with the province, we are also continuing deep discussions with First Nations on co-ownership of the proposed transmission line.鈥�
Public engagement efforts are ongoing, including pop-up sessions and an online survey to gather local input. A formal preferred route is expected to be identified by fall 2025.
鈥擶ith files from Alexander Vaz
