With the approval of FortisBC's newest safety measures, after a month-long suspension and review, communities in the Southern Interior are once again expressing their concern.
On June 23, the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) approved FortisBC's proposed Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) policy after finding the measures to be consistent with its Electrical Tariff. Princeton Mayor Spencer Coyne, who initially shared his town's opposition to the new policy, is speaking out again in support of his community and surrounding region.
"It is super disappointing," he said. "I had hoped that the BCUC would have seen it from the side of the communities, but unfortunately, this will have a negative impact on residents around the Similkameen and Boundary."
Coyne added that he wished FortisBC had discussed the PSPS with Princeton first before implementing new measures.
"I am still extremely disappointed that FortisBC did not consult with us prior to the introduction of this plan," he said. "All of this could have been avoided."
The PSPS would proactively shut off power in selected areas in advance of extreme weather and was designed to protect communities and electricity systems against wildfires. The policy, which was submitted to the BCUC for review on May 20, can now move forward with the commission's approval.
On May 8, Coyne, alongside other Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen directors, tore into FortisBC's staff at a presentation over its PSPS policy.
Coyne stated that the policy has consequences for Princeton, including impacting the local economy, hindering local residents' access to basic necessities and forcing the evacuation of high-risk individuals who are reliant on electrical services for medical equipment. Other issues included the lack of consultation with the impacted communities and local governments prior to FortisBC making the announcement of its plan.
A formal complaint was filed with the BCUC at the end of April, alleging that the PSPS would violate the Utilities Commissions Act. Formal letters were also sent to FortisBC and multiple provincial ministers.
As FortisBC now considers its next steps in implementing the PSPS across the province, Coyne will also consider his next moves as he continues to fight for his community.
"We need to hold these utilities to a higher standard and ensure they are maintaining their infrastructure so policies like this will never be enacted," he said. "We must now ensure that the Province will be supporting communities through the Emergencies Act and local government is not left holding the bag for a corporate decision."
Coyne also said that he will be reaching out to the Province as FortisBC will not be held liable for any losses during a PSPS event.
FortisBC continues to reiterate that its priority is to keep the power on safely and reliably for its customers and that PSPS measures will only be implemented as a last resort and used temporarily to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect communities.
Senior corporate communications advisor Gary Toft said that FortisBC acknowledges the BCUC's findings regarding the need for continued engagement with communities and affected parties.
"We value the feedback we have received and will continue to engage with our customers, Indigenous, local and provincial governments and community partners," Toft said. "As we take the next steps, we remain committed to engaging in dialogue and working collaboratively with local emergency planning and community partners to ensure community preparedness."
