News Release

BC Hydro advises that its crews have constructed the new transmission poles that will bypass structures previously impacted by erosion. This will stabilize power to the area and will make the electricity supply more robust for the long term for Tumbler Ridge.

In consultation with local authorities, BC Hydro confirms that the planned power outage required to connect the new conductors to the existing transmission line to Tumbler Ridge is scheduled for Thursday, July 28 from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM.  

Two back-up generation units have been installed in Tumbler Ridge by BC Hydro. Although they were originally intended to provide supplemental backup power for an unplanned outage, BC Hydro will make them available to reduce the impact of the planned outage.

Recommendations for customers during the planned outage:

• Protect electrical equipment during the power outage by switching off and unplugging lights and electrical equipment
• Wait one hour after power is restored before switching on multiple appliances to allow the system time to stabilize
• Check that small portable generators have been installed correctly as incorrect installation can be a potential safety risk to BC Hydro crews. Visit: https://www.bchydro.com/safety-outages/power-outages/home_outages.html#6 for information concerning portable generator safety precautions

Additional Information:

BC Hydro field operations observed deteriorating conditions on Monday, July 11 around a wood pole structure that is part of the 230-kilovolt transmission line to Tumbler Ridge. Monitoring of the site has been ongoing. This area has been subject to significant rainfall and high water levels at High Hat Creek, leading to soil saturation on a hillside where the transmission structure is located. Three weeks ago, BC Hydro completed a geotechnical assessment and plans were made to begin construction of new wood pole structures on both sides of High Hat Creek on higher, more solid ground.