Grid-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) procurement
BC Hydro seeks qualified suppliers for a 100 MW grid-scale battery energy storage system on Vancouver Island, with potential for up to 500 MW across B.C. RFSQ responses due September 16, 2026 via BC Bid.
Categories
Important dates
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Published
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RFSQ issued
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Informational meeting
Exact date to be posted on BC Bid when available
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Submission deadline
Deadline passed -
Response evaluation
Fall 2026 - applies to RFSQ stage
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Selection of qualified suppliers
Fall 2026 - applies to RFSQ stage
AI overview
BC Hydro has issued a Request for Supplier Qualifications (RFSQ) for the design, construction and potentially long-term maintenance of a grid-scale battery energy storage system (BESS). This is the first stage of a procurement process intended to advance B.C.'s first grid-scale battery storage project. The RFSQ was issued on July 30, 2026 and responses will be accepted until September 16, 2026.
The project will deliver at least 100 MW of battery storage capacity on Vancouver Island, with a broader identified need for up to 500 MW of potential battery storage across the province. BC Hydro expects to own and operate the facility while leveraging private-sector expertise through competitive procurement. The BESS will provide fast-response capacity, increased operational flexibility, and enhanced utilization of existing transmission and distribution infrastructure, supporting population growth, electrification, and long-term reliability as part of BC Hydro's Powering Growth Plan.
Key milestones include an informational meeting in August 2026, RFSQ closing on September 16, 2026, response evaluation in fall 2026, and selection of qualified suppliers in fall 2026. Based on RFSQ responses, BC Hydro intends to invite qualified respondents to participate in one or more subsequent Request for Proposal (RFP) opportunities. All procurement activities will be conducted through the BC Bid website.
Responses must be submitted electronically via BC Bid. Questions regarding the RFSQ should be directed to BESS@bchydro.com. The BC Bid Help Desk is available at 1-250-387-7301 or bcbid@gov.bc.ca, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Potential suppliers must register on BC Bid to access RFSQ documents and further information.
Resources & contact
Proposal Document
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