CanREA applauds FortisBC for a new call for power that will expand market opportunities for the renewable energy industry in British Columbia.
Vancouver, July 4, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes a new call for power in British Columbia, to be launched later this year, as announced by FortisBC on July 3.
“This is the third call for power announced in BC in the past two years,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “This growing momentum demonstrates BC’s commitment to developing renewable energy and energy storage to contribute to the province’s energy security, clean economy and reconciliation goals.”
This is the next step after the Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) issued in 2024, which targeted up to 1,100 gigawatt hours (GWh) of energy supply.
This call for power will be offered by invitation only to the successful RFEOI participants. Projects must have a minimum of 25% equity participation by First Nations and directly connect to the Fortis Electricity system in the Southern Interior. The focus will be on wind projects that can provide energy in the winter.
“We are encouraged to see FortisBC prioritize the development of projects with significant Indigenous equity participation,” said Patricia Lightburn, CanREA’s BC Director. “New wind energy projects will quickly deliver economic development opportunities to First Nations and other local communities, while helping to meet BC’s growing demand for clean electricity.”
BC recently passed legislation to streamline regulatory approvals that will help get these projects online sooner, without compromising on environmental protection and community engagement.
Going forward, CanREA will engage with FortisBC to inform the call for power.
Quotes
“This is the third call for power announced in BC in the past two years. This growing momentum demonstrates BC’s commitment to developing renewable energy and energy storage to contribute to the province’s energy security, clean economy and reconciliation goals.”
—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)
“We are encouraged to see FortisBC prioritize the development of projects with significant Indigenous equity participation. New wind energy projects will quickly deliver economic development opportunities to First Nations and other local communities, while helping to meet BC’s growing demand for clean electricity.”
—Patricia Lightburn, BC Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)
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About CanREA
The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.