The Government of British Columbia has announced a comprehensive plan to accelerate economic growth in northern regions through major investments in clean electricity infrastructure. At the heart of this strategy is the North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL), a nation-building project designed to deliver reliable, low-carbon power to traditional resource sectors such as mining, natural gas, and LNG, as well as emerging industries like data centers, artificial intelligence, and hydrogen production.
Partnering with First Nations, the government is advancing the construction of the NCTL, which is expected to create approximately 9,700 direct full-time jobs and contribute nearly $10 billion annually to the province’s GDP. The project also aligns with B.C.’s climate goals by reducing carbon emissions by an estimated two to three million tonnes each year. Construction is slated to begin in summer 2026, with phased completion targeted between 2032 and 2034.
New legislative and regulatory measures will prioritize electricity allocation for projects that generate jobs and public revenue while supporting decarbonization. In addition, B.C. is implementing a permanent ban on new electricity connections for cryptocurrency mining to safeguard the grid’s capacity for industrial growth.
This ambitious plan reflects B.C.’s commitment to leveraging its clean energy advantages, fostering Indigenous partnerships, and diversifying the provincial economy.
