FortisBC, a major utility serving British Columbia's Southern Interior, has announced its next strategic steps to procure up to 1,100 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of new electricity supply by 2030, with a pronounced focus on wind energy projects. This initiative directly addresses a looming electricity shortage for its approximately 190,000 customers and signals a significant shift in the region's energy procurement landscape.

The utility's decision follows an initial request for expressions of interest in September 2024, which garnered over 80 submissions representing approximately 20,000 GWh of potential electricity. The subsequent phase, now underway, invites selected organizations to participate in a targeted call for power, emphasizing projects capable of direct connection to FortisBC’s electricity system in the Southern Interior. A critical requirement for these new projects is a minimum of 25 percent Indigenous equity ownership, underscoring a commitment to economic reconciliation and local community benefit.

Joe Mazza, FortisBC’s Vice President of Energy Supply and Resource Development, emphasized the strategic importance of this move. "By supporting local power projects and working with Indigenous organizations, we can expand electricity generation to ensure homes and businesses in the Southern Interior have the energy they need," Mazza stated. "This call for power is an important step in delivering safe, reliable and affordable energy—driving economic development and strengthening communities for the future."

The focus on wind power is particularly strategic, as these projects are expected to provide crucial energy during the winter months when customer demand for electricity is highest. This aligns with recent provincial legislative changes aimed at streamlining the permitting and regulation processes for renewable energy projects, particularly wind farms, which Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix noted would help bring more power to customers faster. "FortisBC’s upcoming call for power is great news for British Columbia as we build our supply of clean energy to drive our economy forward," Dix commented, highlighting the potential for local jobs, investment, and opportunities for Indigenous communities.

Complementing the new generation capacity, FortisBC is also undertaking significant infrastructure upgrades, including a $133 million investment approved by the B.C. Utilities Commission for substations in Glenmore, Saucier, and Duck Lake. These grid enhancements are vital to integrate the new renewable energy sources effectively and ensure the continued reliability and affordability of power delivery across the region.