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
Thank you for those who attended our Virtual Open House session on February 2, 2024.
If you were unable to attend, here is a copy of the Virtual Open House presentation [PDF, 1.9 MB].
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 map [PDF, 3.5 MB] to view it at a larger size.
The project will require a Certificate of Public Necessity and Convenience (CPCN) application to be submitted to the B.C. Utilities Commission (BCUC). Information on the CPCN process is available on the BCUC website.
| Activity | Key dates |
|---|---|
| Project Launch | Winter 2020 |
| Engineering and environmental studies | Ongoing through summer 2024 |
| Civil and cable design | Ongoing through 2024 |
| BC Utilities Commission application submitted | Fall 2024 |
| Construction start | Spring 2026 |
| Cable in-service | Late 2028 |
Reports and documents
Contact us
If you'd like to learn more about the project, please contact us at:
Email: projects@bchydro.com
Phone: 604 623 4472
Toll free: 1 866 647 3334