On the distribution of power, we should dig deeper

Two Vancouver attributes are on a collision course and the result could very well be transformative.

Vancouver is known for being one of the greenest cities in the world — think unparalleled urban tree canopy, stunning parks and clean energy. Increasingly, Vancouver is also developing a reputation for innovation — think social enterprises in Strathcona, HIV-AIDS research at St. Paul’s Hospital and tech startups downtown.

I recently learned about one way these concepts could come together in Vancouver when I heard about B.C. Hydro’s innovative idea to power downtown Vancouver while investing in new community benefits for the West End.

I may be biased, but I believe the West End is the city’s most iconic neighbourhood. We have amazing diversity, one-of-a-kind beaches and parks, and a thriving business community. Our community is growing rapidly, and with that comes increasing demand for energy and community amenities. This is a significant challenge for our public electricity provider and our community.

With demand for electricity growing, especially downtown, B.C. Hydro needs to put a new electricity substation in the West End in the next 10 years. The question isn’t whether it’s needed, but what is the best way to integrate a substation we need into the neighbourhood we love — a neighbourhood, I might add, that wants to remain green and attractive.

Substations are an essential part of an electricity system that keeps our lights on and, according to B.C. Hydro engineers, have very low electric and magnetic-field impacts. B.C. Hydro usually builds substations above ground, using about half a city block, with lots of fencing and Do Not Enter signs to keep the area safe. You might have seen Murrin substation next to Andy Livingstone Park — it’s above ground and not pleasant to the eye, and it’s sitting on land that could be used for things like affordable housing.

Instead of an above-ground substation, B.C. Hydro is considering placing a new substation underground at the site of the Lord Roberts Annex school next to Nelson Park. This isn’t an entirely new concept — I was surprised to learn there is an existing underground substation at Cathedral Park. Using space below public land is an innovative and community-centred way to deliver renewable power to the West End, and it comes with benefits.

B.C. Hydro is proposing to pay for a new school in Coal Harbour to accommodate students from Lord Roberts Annex during the construction of an expanded school next to where Lord Roberts Annex sits. Both schools would include new daycare spaces. By placing the substation underground and building a new, larger school on a smaller footprint, we could see up to 40 per cent more green space next to Nelson Park.

It’s a compelling notion — two new schools downtown, new daycare spaces, expanded and refreshed green space, and sustainable, renewable power for our growing neighbourhood. It’s an idea we at the West End Business Improvement Association think is worth serious consideration. Of course, our first priority is that our community and members have a chance to learn more and provide their input.

Over the coming weeks, B.C. Hydro is holding two open houses on Feb. 18 and 20, and a smallgroup community meeting on Feb. 15, in the West End. You can get more information about those events online at bchydro.com/seed. I encourage you to participate in the consultation events, get informed and be heard.

Clean power distributed in a green way, and with benefits. This idea could support the livability of the West End while also enhancing Vancouver’s reputation as a green and innovative city. Now that’s transformative.

Stephen Regan is executive director of the West End Business Improvement Association.