A new report by Clean Energy Canada suggests that British Columbia (B.C.) will have a surplus of electricity in the 2030s, thanks to the new Site C dam and new wind power projects. This surplus could be due to a 15% increase in demand, which could be met by B.C.’s grid, despite concerns about energy security and affordability. The report argues that the province’s clean energy policies, such as zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates and renewable energy investment, are necessary to meet growing demand. The report also notes that B.C.’s power trading with the U.S. and Alberta helps with affordability, and that the province has profited from power arbitrage between 2019 and 2024. However, the report does not discuss the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on power arbitration, which could affect B.C.’s ability to sell power to the U.S. The report concludes that B.C. is well-positioned to meet the demands of electrification and that its grid can accommodate increased demand.
Through the 2030s, British Columbia will continue to rely on Site C and other wind farms to meet its energy needs.
