Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Project
We're undertaking a project to replace an existing underground, oil-insulated end of life transmission cables with a new, higher capacity, oil free cable.
What's new
December 2025
We've updated the project schedule. We anticipate the next virtual open house to take place in early 2026.
Replacing a direct-buried, oil-filled cable with a higher capacity, oil-free cable that is constructed in a duct bank.
The existing underground cable will be decommissioned once the new cable is energized.
The cable was installed in 1976 and is nearing end-of-life. It is one of four underground transmission cables critical to the electricity supply for Greater Victoria.
The project will address the reliability, environmental and seismic risks associated with the existing cable while also meeting electricity load growth.
The Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Project is located primarily within existing roadways, approximately, 7.1 kilometres in length between Horsey Substation near downtown Victoria and Goward Substation in Saanich. The new cable will mainly follow the existing route.
Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement project map
Select the project map [PDF, 3.4 MB] to view it at a larger size.
| Activity | Key dates |
|---|---|
| Engineering and environmental studies | Ongoing through summer 2026 |
| Civil and cable design | Ongoing through summer 2026 |
| Project engagement with City of Victoria and District of Saanich | Ongoing |
| Construction start | Spring 2027 |
| Cable in-service | Late 2029 |
Reports and documents
Get in touch
If you'd like to learn more about the project, please contact Stephen Watson at:
Email: steve.watson@bchydro.com
Phone: 250 616 9888