On Oct. 20, 2025, government tabled the energy statutes amendment act (Bill 31), a series of regulatory and legislative measures introduced to streamline the approvals and permitting process.

Bill 31 received royal assent on Nov. 27, 2025, and the regulatory measures and ministerial order came into effect on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.

Regulatory changes will address existing BC Hydro tariffs, making it easier for large industrial projects to connect to the North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL), and to support a final investment decision.

In addition, to expedite construction timelines for the NCTL, the Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions has issued an order exempting BC Hydro from the requirement to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the project from the B.C. Utilities Commission.

The regulations and ministerial order will bring investment certainty to potential mines, LNG and other projects seeking to connect to the NCTL. They also provide clarity regarding security provisions required to access the line.

Building the NCTL is a cornerstone of government’s co-ordinated strategy to meet the rising demand for clean electricity, and to power economic growth, jobs, climate action and reconciliation throughout British Columbia.