VANCOUVER: Construction is now underway on two major BC Hydro upgrade projects in Surrey and Langley, aimed at meeting growing electricity demand and improving reliability in two of B.C.’s fast-growing communities. These projects will expand substation capacity and enhance the local electricity system, delivering clean power to tens of thousands of new homes and businesses.
In Langley, work has begun on a two-phase expansion of the McLellan Substation. Once complete, the project will supply clean electricity for up to an additional 75,000 homes, supporting significant growth across residential, commercial, transportation and light industrial sectors. Phase 1 is scheduled for completion in 2026, with Phase 2 expected to be in service by 2029.
In Surrey, construction is underway on the Whalley Substation Feeder Addition Project. This upgrade will add four new feeders to the existing substation, increasing capacity and improving reliability in the Surrey Centre area. The new feeders will provide power to an additional 8,000 to 13,000 homes in Whalley and Guildford. The project is expected to be fully operational by the summer of 2026.
Beyond these two major projects, BC Hydro is advancing several additional major projects in Surrey and Langley as part of its $36 billion capital plan to support long-term growth:
- New Surrey Centre Substation: Will power 20,000 to 35,000 homes by 2032.
- Scott Road Substation Redevelopment: Will support 20,000 to 35,000 homes by 2032.
- New Substation in Langley: Will power 20,000 to 35,000 homes; in service by 2032.
- New Willoughby Substation: Will power 20,000 to 35,000 homes by 2032.
- Distribution system enhancements: Investments in underground and overhead infrastructure to meet growing demand in Willoughby-Clayton, Brookswood and Gloucester.
BC Hydro is further supporting regional development through upgrades to transmission and distribution infrastructure for the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension. That work is expected to be completed by fall 2025, with stations energized by spring 2026.
Additionally, to help new homes and businesses connect to the grid more quickly and affordably, BC Hydro recently updated its Distribution Extension Policy. Effective July 5, the changes streamline the connection process and reduce costs for developers and homeowners.
Previously, the first customer requesting an extension had to cover the full cost of infrastructure upgrades, even when future users benefited. Under the new policy, costs are shared more equitably, and BC Hydro has increased its contribution to cover a larger portion of extension expenses. As a result, connecting a new single-family home now costs as little as $64, down from over $800, while a 13-unit townhouse project could save approximately $16,000. These changes support the Province and BC :Hydro’s broader efforts to accelerate housing development and make new homes more affordable across British Columbia.
BC Hydro is committed to powering the growth of communities across British Columbia. As neighborhoods expand and new homes and businesses emerge, it is working to ensure energy remains affordable, sustainable, and accessible for all residents – today and for generations to come.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 928 6468