BCTC responds to The Province's Brian Lewis

Jane Peverett
B.C. Transmission Corp.
The Province
August 01, 2007

In response to Brian Lewis's column [of June 3, nearly two months ago], rerouting the upgraded transmission line to Vancouver Island via Deltaport rather than along the existing right of way through Tsawwassen was thoroughly considered by the independent B.C. Utilities Commission and found to be unfeasible.

There are several good reasons why this route can't be used.

Locating a transmission line on the sea floor near an active port where large container ships regularly drop anchor presents a significant and unacceptable danger to our electricity security.

Secondly, the Deltaport option would cost ratepayers $22 million more than using the existing right of way, which costs $3.1 million.

Finally, while we recognize that a small group of residents have concerns about the health impacts of electric and magnetic fields, measurements for both the existing line (built prior to residents purchasing their homes) and the upgraded line will fall well within the guidelines advocated by both Health Canada and the World Health Organization.

The Vancouver Island Transmission Reinforcement project was approved by the B.C. Utilities Commission last year.

Now under construction, it will provide reliable electricity to more than 700,000 residents and businesses on both Vancouver Island and the southern Gulf Islands, as well as support the economic growth and social well-being of these communities.

Jane Peverett
President
B.C. Transmission Corporation