There are concerns about intermittent and persistent power outages in the Cowichan Valley.

Brian, who asked that his last name not be used, lives in the area between Quamichan Lake and the site of the new Cowichan District Hospital being built on Bell McKinnon Road.

He said that since Oct. 15, he has had seven power outages at his home lasting about 15 seconds each time, but it was enough to interfere with the operation of his heat pump, computers, clocks and other equipment. electronics every time the electricity was cut. spell.

Brian said he had heard that dozens of other people in the area were experiencing the same problems.

He said he called BC Hydro and was told work crews had been sent to fix the problem, but the power outages persist.

“BC Hydro has said the local power grid is overloaded and they have had to rely on other grids, but there is no solution to the outages at this time,” Brian said.
“I’m guessing it’s probably related to the construction of the new hospital, but BC Hydro hasn’t posted any notice about it on their website.”

BC Hydro spokesperson Ted Olynyk confirmed the issue is related to hospital construction.

He said intermittent power outages in the area are the result of electrical loads temporarily shifting to and from other power grids to accommodate construction work at the hospital site.

“The recent storms and cold weather have complicated things, and we really regret the inconvenience this has caused some of our customers,” Olynyk said.
“Nevertheless, we are examining options to find a solution as quickly as possible.”