The SISC Project includes construction of two capacitor stations:
- The Edgewood Capacitor Station will be located between Edgewood and Needles, adjacent to the existing 500 kV transmission line near Whatshan Settlement Road. Read the Edgewood FAQ (PDF, 68KB).
- The Trout Creek Capacitor Station will be located in the Trout Creek area west of Summerland, adjacent to the existing 500 kV transmission line near kilometre thirteen on Bathville Road
The project also includes a remote microwave reflector to be located north of Fauquier. This tower is required to provide communication to the Edgewood Station.
The new capacitor stations will:
- Reinforce the existing transmission system
- Alleviate system congestion
- Provide additional electrical capacity to fulfill existing agreements with FortisBC and Alberta.
What is a capacitor station?
A capacitor station is a facility in which electricity from high voltage transmission lines moves through a series of devices called capacitors. These capacitors can store electrical charges, which maintain voltage levels in power lines for greater system stability, and improve electrical system efficiency.
How big is a typical capacitor station site?
It is estimated that just over two hectares is required (one hectare is 2.471 acres). This includes the fenced area containing the electrical equipment, plus additional land for drainage and a buffer zone.
What will the stations look like?
There will be a small control building, but most of the electrical and communications equipment will be outdoors. The equipment will be surrounded by an 8 foot high safety fence. The area enclosed by the fence will be approximately 150 x 100 metres, but will depend on the final layout.