Anindita Chatterjee
Updated on: October 10, 2024 4:05 am GMT
Power Outages Disrupt Central Lonsdale and Bulkley Valley Residents
Residents and businesses in Central Lonsdale, one of the North Shore’s most bustling urban locales, faced unexpected challenges on Monday afternoon as power outages affected approximately 2,800 BC Hydro customers. The cause was identified as a downed power line in an alley between Mahon and Chesterfield Avenues, along with 13th and 14th Streets West.
Incident Details: Downed Wire in Central Lonsdale
The power outage occurred around 12:10 p.m., prompting immediate action from BC Hydro. A spokesperson reported that the cause of the downed wire remains unknown. Emergency crews were dispatched to ensure the safety of the area, as downed lines are treated with utmost caution.
According to BC Hydro, a specialized repair crew was expected on the scene by 3:45 p.m. The utility provider estimated that power should be restored by 7 p.m. local time. “We truly appreciate everyone’s patience as our crews safely restore power to customers,” the spokesperson said.
Planned Power Outage: Bulkley Valley Communities Affected
In addition to the Central Lonsdale incident, BC Hydro has announced a scheduled power outage set for September 15, which will impact a vast area in the Bulkley Valley and surrounding regions. The outage is planned from 7 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m.
Reason for the Outage
This planned outage is necessary for BC Hydro crews to conduct a transmission line relocation at the Telkwa substation. This operation is part of the broader Prince George to Terrace Capacitors Stations Project aimed at increasing power supply to meet rising demands, particularly from industrial sectors such as mining and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) developments.
Impact of the Bulkley Valley Outage
The planned outage will affect the area extending from Telkwa to Kitwanga, encompassing all communities along the route. Dave Mosure of BC Hydro indicated that the project includes constructing three new capacitor stations which are designed to enhance the existing electrical transmission infrastructure.
About the Capacitor Station Project
Capacitor stations are crucial facilities that enhance the amount of electricity transmission lines can carry. These outdoor installations are built on flat land adjacent to existing lines and play a pivotal role in expanding the capacity of the electrical grid in a cost-effective and reliable manner.
Current Status of Construction
The construction of capacitor stations has already begun, with works initiated at Saranovich (Vanderhoof) and Palling (Burns Lake) in October 2022, and Walcott (Telkwa) starting in January 2024. Specifically, the work at the Telkwa site will involve clearing the area, building a permanent access road, installing a 500 kV tower below the existing transmission line, and relocating a 138 kV line.
The planned power outage on September 15 is crucial for the safety of crews working on this project. The enhanced line is expected to be operational by 2027-2028, significantly benefiting the local energy infrastructure.
Recent Developments in Power Infrastructure
In recent months, BC Hydro has been under pressure to meet growing energy demands linked to economic activities in northern regions of British Columbia. In response, construction on similar infrastructure projects has been ramped up as BC Hydro works to modernize and enhance its energy distribution capabilities.
Stakeholders, including local businesses and residents, have voiced both concern and support for the planned outages, emphasizing the need for reliable energy sources while acknowledging the temporary inconveniences associated with such developments. Many believe that the long-term benefits of improved energy capacity will outweigh the short-term disruptions.
BC Hydro remains committed to completing these infrastructure improvements safely and efficiently. According to Mosure, the utility provider will continue to engage with the community to keep them informed about ongoing and future projects, ensuring they are aware of how these changes will affect their daily lives.
As BC Hydro moves forward with these initiatives, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for any upcoming outages, both unexpected and planned, ensuring minimal disruption to their daily activities.
You can learn more about what BC Hydro does and what they plan for the future by checking out their website.
