Overview
On July 3, 2025, FortisBC officially announced the launch of its Request for Proposals (RFP) as part of its initiative to secure additional electricity generation in the Southern Interior, and at this time, notifications have been issued to selected participants from its earlier Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEOI) process.
In 2024, FortisBC launched a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEOI) to identify new lower-carbon and renewable energy projects in British Columbia aimed at supplying up to 1,100 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity by 2030. This initiative supports the growing electricity demand of approximately 190,000 customers in the Southern Interior region.
The RFEOI drew significant attention from project developers, resulting in over 80 submissions representing a combined proposed capacity of approximately 20,000 GWh — substantially surpassing FortisBC’s initial target.
RFEOI Timeline and Process
- Release of RFEOI: September 10, 2024
- RFEOI Submission Deadline: November 4, 2024
- FBC Review of Submissions: November 5 – December 31, 2024
- Optional: Commercially Confidential Meetings: Q1 2025
- Initiate Procurement Process: April 1, 2025
RFEOI Outcomes
Next Steps and Supporting Infrastructure
FortisBC is moving toward a Call for Power—an invitation-only procurement process that will select projects aligned with the RFEOI priorities. This phase will include:
- Ongoing investment in electricity infrastructure, including upgrades to substations across key Southern Interior locations such as Kelowna, Grand Forks, and Trail.
- Support from the BC Energy Regulator, which acts as a single-window regulator to streamline permitting, reducing timelines for clean energy project approvals.
Project Priorities
- Wind generation — The focus is on winter-capable wind projects that can deliver reliable power during peak cold-season demand, addressing seasonal electricity supply challenges.
- Indigenous partnership — A core requirement mandates a minimum 25% Indigenous equity ownership and active participation plans in all projects, aligning with FortisBC’s commitment to meaningful Indigenous engagement.
Why This Matters
The Southern Interior of BC has experienced roughly 10% growth in electricity demand over five years, driven by population increases and electrification initiatives. FortisBC’s approach is designed to:
- Ensure reliable and affordable clean electricity through strategic renewable projects.
- Support Indigenous economic development and partnerships.
- Build resilience and energy security for local communities.
How Compass Energy Consulting Can Help
Navigating complex procurements like FortisBC’s Call for Power requires specialized expertise. Compass Energy Consulting offers comprehensive bid management and advisory services, including:
- Breaking down procurement documents and requirements.
- Developing RFP trackers and project schedules.
- Managing Indigenous partnership plans and equity requirements.
- Assisting with technical and regulatory compliance.
- Guiding bid scoring strategies and quality control.
Contact Us
For more information about how to participate or to receive consulting support for FortisBC’s upcoming Call for Power, please contact: Rachelle Lynne-Davies
- Email: rachelle@compassenergyconsulting.ca
- Phone: 416-803-6945
About FortisBC
FortisBC Inc. (FBC) is an integrated, regulated electric utility serving approximately 190,000 customers in British Columbia’s Southern Interior. The company is regulated by the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC).
FortisBC owns and operates four hydroelectric generating plants on the Kootenay River, providing about 1,609 GWh of annual energy. The utility meets the remainder of its customers’ electricity needs through a mix of long-term and short-term power purchase agreements.
The service territory experienced a historical peak demand of 835 MW during the fourth quarter of 2022, highlighting the growing energy needs in the region.
