Work by BC Hydro to upgrade power lines across Jervis Inlet and Agamemnon Channel, which began in 2025, will continue in the spring of 2026 with a temporary closure of Agamemnon Channel this April.
BC Hydro will be removing a 138KV overhead powerline that crosses Agamemnon Channel. Power lines crossing Jervis Inlet and Agamemnon Channel deliver electricity to substations serving about 10,000 customers within the City of Powell River and surrounding communities, including Lund, Cortes Island, Texada Island, and the ferry landing at Saltery Bay on Jervis Inlet. These powerlines are in need of replacement due to aging and corrosion. The line will be removed by severing the conductors and allowing them to fall down. The conductors will then be retrieved using a large barge with cable reels.
The power transmission system upgrades are to maintain public safety for the marine area below the power lines, enhance visibility of the lines for air traffic, and strengthen the power system. The project work will require temporary power outages, marine closures, and temporary closures to parts of the Sunshine Coast Trail.
Marine traffic will be restricted from a 2.2 km stretch of Agamemnon Channel while overhead power line work is underway. This marine traffic closure will not impact BC Ferries service between Saltery Bay and Earls Cove.
Marine Traffic Restrictions – Agamemnon Channel. A short-term marine closure will be in place during the removal of the overhead powerline on:
- Monday, April 20 to Friday, April 24, 2026
- Saturday, April 25 to Friday, May 1, 2026 – contingency dates
Sunshine Coast Trail Restrictions. The upper trail at Saltery Creek and lower trail at Ahlstrom Point will be closed during:
- March 2 to June 10, 2026
An alternate route will be available via Rainy Day Lake, connecting to the upper trail toward Elephant and Lois Lakes.
Planned Power Outages. To safely complete these system upgrades, two 12-hour power outages are required and planned for:
- Sunday, May 24, 8 am to 8 pm
- Sunday, June 7, 8am to 8 pm
These outages will affect Powell River and surrounding communities, including Lund, Cortes Island, Texada Island, and Saltery Bay.
For planned power outages, visit bchydro.com/outages.
Photo Credit: BC Hydro
