BC Hydro is launching a procurement process to move ahead with the province’s first utility-scale battery storage project.
The utility plans to build the facility near Duncan. It would provide at least 100 megawatts of battery storage capacity to improve reliability and meet growing demand on Vancouver Island.
A statement from the B.C. government says the batteries will store electricity when demand is low and feed it back into the grid during peak periods.
A supplier qualification process begins July 30, ahead of requests for proposals being issued later this year.
Cowichan Valley MLA Debra Toporowski said she is looking forward to seeing the project take shape in her riding.
“I’m thrilled that BC Hydro has selected the Cowichan Valley as the site for its very first battery energy storage system,” Toporowski said. “It recognizes the exciting growth and opportunity that we’re seeing in our region and around Vancouver Island, and provides added assurance that our communities and businesses will continue to benefit from a strong, resilient and modern regional electricity grid.”
The project is expected to be in service by 2030 as part of BC Hydro’s Powering Growth plan to expand the province’s electricity system.
