BC Hydro Starting Consultation on New Capacitor Upgrade and Expansion Project

BC Hydro

 

May 7, 2018

The Kelly Lake capacitors project involves building up to four new capacitor stations — used to maintain system voltage levels and secure system performance — along the six existing 500 kilovolt transmission lines that run from the Gordon M. Shrum and Peace Canyon generating stations near Hudson’s Hope to the Kelly Lake substation near Clinton.

The Peace Region currently generates more than 30% of the total electricity produced in the province. With new generation resources such as Site C and other smaller independent power projects being built, more electricity will be generated in the area in coming years.

The existing transmission system in the Peace Region is already at 95% capacity and some equipment is aging and requires replacement. As a result, BC Hydro must upgrade and expand its capacitor stations to ensure it can move the electricity from where it is generated in the Peace Region to other parts of the province. This avoids the need to build a new transmission line to increase capacity.

BC Hydro is considering three alternatives for the project and has begun consultations with First Nations, local governments and residents .

The project is in its earliest planning stage and BC Hydro expects to identify a leading alternative in early 2019. The project is expected to be complete between 2024 and 2026.
For more information on the project, visit bchydro.com/pkcp.

Related Articles

Latest Articles

  • Guide to the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1[i], 26th Edition– A Road Map: Section 56

    Guide to the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1[i], 26th Edition– A Road Map: Section 56

    February 6, 2026 The Code is a comprehensive document. Sometimes it can seem quite daunting to quickly find the information you need. This series of articles provides a guide to help users find their way through this critical document. This is not intended to replace the notes in Appendix B or the explanations of individual Read More…

  • 3D Printing: Inside Lighting’s Next Revolution

    February 5, 2026 While 3D printing in mass production was once a dream, advancements in the technology have moved it more into the mainstream. The technique, which is also referred to as additive manufacturing, has rapidly evolved from a niche prototyping tool into a transformative production method for many sectors, including the lighting industry. As Read More…

  • Microgrids & Power Quality: Designing Resilient, Clean Facility Power

    Microgrids & Power Quality: Designing Resilient, Clean Facility Power

    February 5, 2026 In an era of extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and ever‑rising energy demands, many facility managers are rethinking their relationship with the grid. Microgrids offer a way to take control and operate autonomously when necessary. A microgrid is more than just backup, when designed properly, it becomes a platform for resiliency, efficiency, and Read More…

  • ITC 101: Understanding NEMA Ratings for Electrical Enclosures

    ITC 101: Understanding NEMA Ratings for Electrical Enclosures

    February 5, 2026 Understanding NEMA Ratings for Electrical Enclosures NEMA Ratings are an essential classification system used across North America to define the environmental and mechanical protection provided by electrical enclosures. Developed by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), these ratings help engineers, installers, and specifiers identify the appropriate enclosure type for industrial, commercial, and outdoor Read More…

Changing Scene

  • Lighting What’s Next: Stanpro Celebrates 65 Years

    Lighting What’s Next: Stanpro Celebrates 65 Years

    February 6, 2026 “We didn’t get here by standing still. For 65 years, we’ve shaped how we think, how we design, and what responsibility means,” the company said in a LinkedIn post. “Today, that thinking takes a new form. Not to change who we are, but to express our evolution more clearly. This is Stanpro, Read More…

  • Housing Priorities on Track in New Brunswick, but More Work to do: Hickey

    Housing Priorities on Track in New Brunswick, but More Work to do: Hickey

    February 6, 2026 Efforts to support the creation of new affordable housing and reduce chronic homelessness are on track, but there is still lots of work to do, according to David Hickey, the minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation. New data indicates progress has been made on three key government priorities related to Read More…

  • BJ Electric is now Bernie’s Electric Supplies Ltd

    BJ Electric is now Bernie’s Electric Supplies Ltd

    February 6, 2026 BJ Electric has announced the company has rebranded as Bernie’s Electric Supplies Ltd, a nod to their founder. “BJ Electric Supplies is now Bernie’s Electric Supplies—in honor of our founder, Bernard Joseph Thompson, and the values that have guided the company for nearly 50 years. As we grow and evolve, this name Read More…

  • The Government of Canada Introduces the Build Canada Homes Act

    The Government of Canada Introduces the Build Canada Homes Act

    February 6, 2026 The Government of Canada has introduced the Build Canada Homes Act, legislation that will establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation whose mandate will be dedicated to building affordable housing in communities across the country. As Canada’s affordable housing builder, this legislation will equip Build Canada Homes with the necessary tools to Read More…