Powering British Columbia’s future: GHD supports BC Hydro’s clean energy vision

BC Hydro is one of the largest energy providers in Canada, with over 12,000 megawatts of generating capacity to provide electricity to 95% of the population of British Columbia. In April 2024, the energy sector leader launched its first Call for Power in more than 15 years to acquire new clean energy projects to deliver approximately 3,000 gigawatt hours per year (GWh/y) of electricity and add 5% to the utility’s current supply. With this, BC Hydro undertook the ambitious task of engaging industry and independent power producers, soliciting responses, and assessing the received clean energy proposals to meet the growing electricity demands of British Columbia’s communities.
 
The received proposals encompassed a diverse range of renewable energy technologies, including wind, solar, biomass, and hydro, each requiring thorough evaluation to ensure technical, financial, and environmental feasibility. Additionally, BC Hydro upheld the requirement for at least 25% First Nations equity ownership. The most significant challenge was completing detailed assessments and delivering independent recommendations within a strict three-week timeline, all while balancing the need for technical precision and alignment with provincial clean energy goals.

As the Technical Advisor, GHD provided a comprehensive and structured evaluation to meet BC Hydro’s objectives. Our team began by conducting a detailed risk assessment for each proposal, focusing on technical feasibility and project implementation. Our specialists also performed an energy resource risk analysis to validate the likelihood of proposed energy production and confirm that the projects aligned with BC Hydro’s clean energy goals.  In addition to these assessments, GHD provided detailed reports identifying potential risks and recommending mitigation strategies to help BC Hydro make informed decisions.
 
By leveraging global technical expertise and local advisory insights, GHD ensured that the evaluations were context-sensitive, precise, and delivered on time, enabling BC Hydro to select the projects that truly aligned with its vision.

GHD’s independent strategic and technical professional services enabled BC Hydro to proceed confidently in advancing its clean energy initiatives that will drive economic growth and foster environmental sustainability. The new projects will boost British Columbia’s efforts to add additional clean energy production and support the province’s growth in housing, businesses, industries and communities. Out of 21, ten successful proponents were selected to boost the province’s clean energy supply and diversify its generation mix.

Altogether, these will lead to positive outcomes, including:

• Clean energy expansion: Selected projects will generate 5,000 GWh of electricity annually, enough to power 500,000 homes.

• Economic growth: Development and construction will drive $5–$6 billion in private investment, benefiting communities across British Columbia.

• Sustainability gains: An 8% increase in BC Hydro’s clean energy capacity supports the province’s clean energy transition and housing growth.

• Indigenous empowerment: The equity ownership requirement ensures meaningful First Nations participation, fostering economic reconciliation and long-term benefits.