BCTC’s Northwest Transmission Line Project Environmental Review Underway

British Columbia Transmission Corp.’s Application for an Environmental Assessment Certificate for the Northwest Transmission Line is now in the formal review process with the BC Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO).

The proposed project, a 335-km, 287-ukV transmission line between Skeena Substation near Terrace and a new substation to be built near Bob Quinn Lake, will help build the northwest region’s economy. This new line will provide a secure interconnection point for clean power projects to the transmission grid and customers, and provide clean electricity to potential industrial developments. As well, some communities now using diesel generators in the area could be connected to BC’s electricity grid.

Receipt of an Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) from the BCEAO is required before NTL construction can begin. The environmental assessment process is designed to obtain input from interested parties and groups. Next steps include the BCEAO conducting a 180-day review period on the project’s application. This will include a 45-day public comment period from April 26 to midnight June 10, 2010.

During the public comment period the BCEAO will host three public information sessions (open houses). BCTC staff will also be present to answer questions about the proposed project.