VICTORIA: BC Hydro is advancing plans to replace another aging underground transmission cable that helps serve Greater Victoria's growing electricity needs. Beginning August 4 and continuing for up to three months, crews will conduct investigative work along the proposed Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Project route.
This work will help finalize the design and placement of the new underground cable system ahead of construction. Crews will remove small sections of asphalt, use equipment to safely locate underground utilities and assess ground conditions, then restore the work areas once investigations are complete.
The Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Project will replace transmission cables installed in 1976 that are nearing the end of their service life. Greater Victoria's electricity system relies on four underground transmission cables that serve approximately 140,000 customers.
The existing 7.4 kilometre transmission cable connects Goward Substation, near Camosun College, and Horsey Substation in Victoria. The route follows Interurban Road, Burnside Road, Alpha Street, Douglas Street and Summit Avenue. Information gathered during the investigations will help confirm underground conditions and reduce the risk of construction delays when the cable replacement project moves forward.
BC Hydro has worked closely with the City of Victoria and the District of Saanich to develop traffic management plans and minimize disruptions. Some work will take place at night to reduce impacts on traffic and neighbouring communities. More than 100 locations along the route will be investigated.
The anticipated schedule is:
- August: Interurban Road from Camosun College to Wilkinson Road (work is scheduled before the start of the Fall academic term)
- September: Interurban Road from Wilkinson Road to Burnside Road
- October: Burnside Road, Alpha Terrace, Alpha Street, Douglas Street and Summit Avenue
Together with the Victoria to Esquimalt Cable Replacement Project, currently under construction and expected to be energized this fall, this upgrade will help maintain a safe and reliable electricity system while supporting future growth in the region.
Construction on the Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Project could begin as early as summer 2027 and is expected to take approximately three years to complete. Project open houses will be held this fall. Dates, locations and project updates will be posted at bchydro.com/victoriatosaanich.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
Email: media@bchydro.com
Phone: 604 928 6468