How the Program Was Developed

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BC Hydro sought input from potential developers, First Nations, customers and other stakeholders early in the development of the Standing Offer Program in order to influence the design of the Program, and to build a mutual understanding of interests.

The consultation process included:

• A June 2007 invitation by BC Hydro for written comments on the draft Program Rules and draft Standard Form Electricity Purchase Agreement;
• During July and early August 2007, 10 information sessions at several locations in the province to provide further information on the Program and give an opportunity for feedback on the Program and the draft documents.
• The receipt of over 800 comments by First Nations and stakeholder on the draft Program documents by August 3, 2007.
• A November 29, 2007, information session in Vancouver to review revisions to the draft Program Rules and draft Standard Form Electricity Purchase Agreement.

Regulatory review process

BC Hydro filed its application for proceeding with the Standing Offer Program with the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) on December 14, 2007, pursuant to section 45 of the Utilities Commission Act. BC Hydro subsequently filed amendments to its application on January 18, 2008.

• Standing Offer Program – Section 45 Application [PDF, 15.1 Mb]
• Standing Offer Program – Amendments to Section 45 Application [PDF, 968 Kb]

During February 13-5, 2008, a Negotiated Settlement Process took place involving BC Hydro, intervenors and BCUC staff. On March 19, 2008, the BCUC issued Order No. G-43-08 [PDF, 1.1 Mb] approving the Negotiated Settlement Agreement and the expenditures required to implement the Standing Offer Program for the next two years.

The BCUC directed BC Hydro to file final form Standing Offer Program documents (Rules, Standard Form EPA and Application Form) in a timely manner.

Standing Offer Program development timeline