There is now a requirement for prospective AI and data-centre projects to take part in a competitive selection process to access clean electricity.
VICTORIA – BC Hydro launched a competitive process on January 30 for clean power specifically for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centres.
BC Hydro’s new approach, enabled through the provincial government’s Bill 31, the Energy Statutes Amendment Act, which prioritizes clean electricity for projects.
Through Bill 31, there is now a requirement for prospective AI and data-centre projects to take part in a competitive selection process to access clean electricity.
In alignment with the objectives of the Look West strategy, this will ensure B.C. is protecting electricity capacity needed by long-standing industries, while supporting strategic growth in newer sectors that align with provincial priorities, such as data sovereignty and innovation.
This requirement does not apply to traditional industries, such as mining, liquefied natural gas (LNG), forestry, manufacturing or hydrogen for domestic use.
BC Hydro will implement this legislation through the 2026 call for demand for emerging industries. The process provides a clear and predictable path, from application and screening to feasibility studies and final bids. Projects will be assessed based on price and their economic, community, data sovereignty and environmental benefits.
The allocation targets for these projects are for as much as 400 megawatts for the first two years.
Supporting well-advanced projects
Projects with a signed facilities study agreement for transmission, or a design deposit for distribution, will continue under the existing interconnection process.
“Providing clarity for customers already advancing through our interconnection process is essential for maintaining confidence in the system,” says Charlotte Mitha, president and CEO of BC Hydro. “At the same time, the new competitive process will give emerging proponents a fair, transparent pathway to access clean electricity in a way that protects long-term affordability and grid reliability for our customers.”
The competitive process opened on Jan. 30, with successful applicants expected to be notified in September 2026.
The province’s prioritization of clean electricity for artificial intelligence and data centres is aligned with the Look West economic and job-creation strategy, which lays out a path forward to deliver jobs and opportunities for people. Through Look West, B.C. is positioning AI and quantum computing as priority sectors for economic growth. This includes 10-year goals to increase the economic value of technology sectors and doubling employment to 400,000 jobs.
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