BC Hydro accused of deceiving public over power line route

BC Hydro is facing accusations of deception regarding the planned route for the 500 kV North Coast Transmission Line. The project, intended to supply power to large-scale industrial developments in northwestern British Columbia, is under scrutiny by the Kitimat-Stikine regional district.

James Cordeiro, a regional district director and Terrace councillor, alleged that the utility provider used a “bait and switch tactic” to hide its true intentions from the public. The controversy stems from a meeting BC Hydro initially classified as confidential, which Cordeiro argued contained no information requiring an in-camera session.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the transparency of maps outlining the preferred route, which may impact local facilities such as the Skeena Golf and Country Club.