BC Hydro says plan for underground substations leaves scarce land for other uses

Jan 20, 2017 | 9:57 AM

VANCOUVER — BC Hydro says it is looking underground as it considers future electricity demand in downtown Vancouver.

The utility says in a news release that it will upgrade electrical infrastructure by proposing to build two new substations underground, leaving the space above available for developments such as schools.

The substations would be located in the West End and Yaletown, supplying power for what is anticipated to be a 75 per cent growth in demand across the downtown region over the next 30 years.

Hydro says the concept has been shared with the City of Vancouver, the Vancouver School Board and the Vancouver Park Board for their consideration.