BC Hydro and Woodfibre LNG power line project through Brackendale: What’s Being Proposed
BC Hydro plans to build a new 19-km, 138-kV overhead transmission line within the existing right-of-way from Cheekye Substation through Brackendale, potentially on the east side of the existing lines, crossing 40 plus residential properties.
This could involve:
Building access roads through private property
Removing trees, landscaping, and structures such as fences, sheds, and pools
Expanding the right-of-way, potentially requiring up to 30 metres of clearcut
Final engineering designs are not yet complete, so the exact height, width, and property impacts remain unknown.
This map shows the proposed transmission route which was decided on in 2015 after consultation with the community and First Nations running along the west side of the Squamish River, connecting Cheekye Substation to the Woodfibre LNG site. By following the river corridor, the alignment avoids routing through nearby neighbourhoods.
Key Concerns Raised by Residents
Change of plan: In 2015, BC Hydro stated it would use the existing 500-kV line adjacent to the Woodfibre site. Why has this changed?
Property impacts: Potential property devaluation, restrictions on land use, temporary loss of use during construction, removal of residential infrastructure, and loss of trees, privacy, and biodiversity
Construction disruption: Unclear timelines, property access impacts, new roads through residential lots, and possible low-flying helicopter activity
Health concerns: Potential electromagnetic field exposure
Restoration uncertainty: No clear commitments for post-construction restoration
Environmental impacts: Risks to sensitive ecosystems and wildlife habitat
Future expansion: Concern this project could enable future transmission expansion as power demand increases
Outdated right-of-way: BC Hydro is relying on a right-of-way acquired in 1957 for $900, now crossing 40+ private residential properties valued at roughly $60 million combined
Who pays: Although Woodfibre LNG says it will fund the line, similar projects have shifted costs to taxpayers and ratepayers
We chose connecting the Woodfibre LNG facility to the existing 500 kV transmission line adjacent to their site as our leading alternative after hearing feedback from local communities and First Nations, and considering potential economic, social and environmental impacts.
– BC Hydro, 2015
Stage 2 will add the new transmission line constructed within the existing BC Hydro right of way from Cheekye substation through Brackendale to the Woodfibre LNG facility. This approach prevents the need for a new route and minimizes environmental and community impacts.
BOATA 