We're advancing British Columbia's first utility-scale battery energy storage system on Vancouver Island. Battery storage provides a flexible solution by storing electricity when demand is lower and supplying it back to the grid when it's needed most.
The project will help strengthen reliability, make better use of existing infrastructure and support the region's growing energy needs.
We're advancing plans for a battery energy storage system in North Cowichan, adjacent to the Vancouver Island Terminal Substation. The project will be British Columbia's first utility-scale battery storage facility and is expected to provide at least 100 megawatts of storage capacity.
That's enough electricity to power approximately 87,600 homes for up to four hours during periods of peak demand or an outage.
Electricity demand on Vancouver Island is expected to grow significantly over the coming years. We're preparing our electricity system to support that growth and continue delivering reliable power to homes, businesses and communities across the region.
Battery storage provides a flexible way to help meet growing electricity demand while improving reliability. The project will support a more resilient electricity system for Vancouver Island communities while making better use of existing infrastructure.
The proposed battery energy storage system will be located adjacent to the Vancouver Island Terminal Substation in North Cowichan. The site was selected based on factors including system reliability needs, future expansion potential, proximity to existing infrastructure and load centres, site suitability, and opportunities to minimize environmental and project risks.
While the project will be located in North Cowichan, the benefits will be felt across Vancouver Island by helping support a reliable supply of electricity for homes, businesses, and communities.
The target in-service date for the project is 2030.
We'll consult with First Nations and engage with local governments, community members and other interested groups as planning progresses and more information becomes available.
If you'd like to learn more about the project, please contact:
Mary Anne Coules
Phone: 250 608 1885
Email: maryanne.coules@bchydro.com
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