Image source: BC Hydro

BC Hydro has begun construction on a major expansion of the Mount Lehman Substation in Abbotsford, British Columbia, aimed at supporting growing electricity demand in the Fraser Valley region.

The project will add eight new feeder positions, enabling additional distribution circuits and increasing electricity delivery capacity. Once completed, the expansion is expected to supply clean electricity to up to 35,000 additional homes.

Construction is scheduled to be completed by 2027, with three feeders expected to be operational by fall 2026 and the remaining five by fall 2027.

The investment reflects rising electricity demand in the region, driven by population growth and increased electrification across residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors.

Currently, BC Hydro operates 13 substations in the Fraser Valley Regional District, serving approximately 120,000 customers. Population in the region is projected to exceed 500,000 by 2050, with several key growth corridors identified.

The Mount Lehman project forms part of BC Hydro’s broader $36 billion capital plan, which includes multiple infrastructure upgrades across the region. Additional projects include expansions of the Atchelitz and Clayburn substations, as well as transmission reinforcement initiatives to increase system capacity and reliability.

The utility is also investing in upgrades to generating facilities and distribution infrastructure to ensure long-term system resilience and support continued economic and population growth.

Source: bchydro.com