Transmission line in northwestern B.C. gets OK

The federal government has given environmental approval for a transmission line in the northwest part of the province.

The proposed $404-million, 335-kilometre Northwest Transmission Line (NTL) project would go from the Skeena substation near Terrace to a new substation near Bob Quinn Lake, along Highway 37.

Energy and Mines Minister Rich Coleman said construction is set to begin this spring and the project will connect communities to clean energy instead of diesel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

"This decision means that we can move ahead with the NTL. Families in B.C.'s Northwest can benefit from the over 10,000 jobs and $15-billion investment," he said in a written statement.

"NTL is an important part of our long-term vision for clean, low-cost energy for all British Columbians no matter where they live."

The federal government has committed $130 million to the cost of project, while Alta Gas will contribute $180 million to connect its Forest Kerr hydroelectric generating facility. BC Hydro's capital costs are approximately $94 million.

Earlier this year, members of the Tahltan Nation voted 82 per cent in favour of the project, which is expected to open up the region to increased resource development.