The Province has primary jurisdiction over the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric power within British Columbia’s borders. The federal National Energy Board covers international and interprovincial electricity trade and cross-border power lines.
The Electricity and Alternative Energy Division of the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources (MEMPR) assesses and makes recommendation on electricity related policies, legislation and programs. The Division is responsible for implementation and oversight of provincial electricity policy and manages the policy and statuatory frameworks related to British Columbia's major energy Crown corporations: BC Hydro, British Columbia Transmission Corporation and Columbia Power Corporation. The Division also:
- Provides support and expertise to the Ministry of Attorney General regarding British Columbia Utilities Commission and Utilities Commission Act issues;
- Provides input into issues related to water rentals as they pertain to the electricity sector;
- Advises on electricity related Columbia River Treaty matters; and
- Represents the provincial interest on a variety of inter-jurisdictional electricity issues and committees.
