BC Hydro beginning work to repair fire-damaged infrastructure in BC Interior

“We have unprecedented damage to the grid network to the transmission system,” said Jackson.

“We have hundreds of structures with a mix of transmission and distribution that have been destroyed by the fire. We continue to see impacts to our structures with the fire growth.”

While repair work is just getting started, the utility company said work will depend on fire conditions, with more damage possible due to the raging wildfires.

“BC Hydro crews have begun preliminary restoration activities, including civil work, access preparation and material staging, while continuing damage assessments,” said BC Hydro officials.

“However, active wildfire conditions continue to restrict access to some areas, preventing crews from fully assessing all affected infrastructure. With fire activity ongoing, there remains strong potential for additional damage, and the full extent of impacts is not yet known.”

The power company said its crews will be rebuilding in large sections rather than simply restoring isolated outages, given the scale of destruction to the power grid.

Elsewhere, the Big Bar Complex has about 100 customers still without power in Boston Bar, Hell’s Gate, China Bar, North End and surrounding areas.

“Damage assessments have identified approximately 34 damaged transmission and distribution poles on the west side of the Fraser River and five additional distribution poles requiring replacement near Ainslie Creek on the east side,” said BC Hydro.

“Access has been limited due to wildfire activity, but restoration work is expected to begin this week.”

The power company plans to begin restoration work impacting about 100 customers on Thursday (July 30) and work affecting the remaining customers will start on Friday (July 31). Repair timelines will become more clear as BC Hydro’s crews gain access to more of its infrastructure.

Even with the damage, the company said its electrical grid is still strong.

“Despite wildfire activity in several regions of the province, BC Hydro’s electricity system remains stable,” said BC Hydro.

“In addition to restoration efforts, BC Hydro crews continue supporting BC Wildfire Service operations by helping clear roads, remove hazardous trees and improve access routes for first responders and critical services.”

You can prepare for wildfire-related emergencies and extended outages by maintaining an emergency plan, putting a grab-and-go emergency kit together and keeping emergency contact information readily available.

“Simple measures such as clearing gutters, moving flammable materials away from structures and maintaining defensible space can make a difference during wildfire season,” said BC Hydro.

Those without power for more than five days or longer could qualify for a bill credit, which will be applied automatically.

by Elora McCormack

BC Hydro beginning work to repair fire-damaged infrastructure in BC Interior

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