New legislation powers economy with clean energy, North Coast Transmission Line

The Government of British Columbia introduced legislation on October 20, 2025, to expedite the North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL), a project crucial for economic growth and job creation. This initiative aims to position B. C. as a leader in clean energy, with Premier David Eby declaring that it will help build a more independent Canadian economy. The legislation focuses on ensuring reliable electricity access for key sectors such as mining, natural gas, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

Minister Adrian Dix emphasized the need for urgent action to leverage clean electricity and support industrial growth while implementing a ban on new BC Hydro connections for cryptocurrency mining. Additional regulatory changes set for fall 2025 will facilitate energy connections for data centers and hydrogen production. The government also aims to prioritize projects that deliver the greatest benefits to British Columbians. The NCTL is one of 18 priority projects identified to expand the province's electricity grid and diversify its economy. This proactive approach seeks to avoid the pitfalls seen in other jurisdictions facing rising electricity demands.