Interregional Connections
The BC transmission network is linked to the US and Alberta network through several high voltage transmission lines. These interconnections bring mutual benefits as well as obligations to the interconnected parties. Some of the key benefits to BC include enhanced supply reliability and access to external electricity markets in the US and Alberta.
The interconnection to Alberta consists of one 500 kV line and two 138 kV lines, and is rated at 1,000 MW for import and 1200 MW for export. The 500 kV line is 319 km long, from Cranbrook in BC to the Calgary area in Alberta. The two 138 kV lines are from the Natal area in B.C. to southern Alberta.
The interconnection to the U.S. consists of two 500 kV lines and two 230 kV lines, with a path rating of 2000 MW for import and 3150 MW for export. The 500 kV lines are each 36 kilometres long, from the Lower Mainland to the Bellingham area. The two short 230 kV lines cross the BC-US border in the area south of Trail.
