FortisBC receives approval for Benvoulin SubstationKelowna, BC – January 21, 2009 –The British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) announced its approval for FortisBC’s Benvoulin substation application. The $17.7 million project will see the construction of a new electrical substation on Casorso Road in the former gravel pit just north of the Kelowna and District Fish and Game Club Rifle Range and west of Priest Creek. “South central Kelowna has experienced significant growth over the last several years and this project will provide needed system enhancements, ensuring customers have safe and reliable power in the area,” said Doyle Sam, Vice President of Engineering and Operations for FortisBC. “Detailed engineering and planning will start immediately, with construction following later this spring. We anticipate the project will be complete by the end of 2010.” FortisBC engaged in extensive public consultation for the project, including hosting three open houses. The Company evaluated the technical feasibility, safety, and availability of land for 17 potential substation sites before narrowing the selection down to the preferred site on Casorso Road at the former gravel pit. For more information on the project, interested individuals are encouraged to contact FortisBC on the toll free number at 1-866-4FORTIS (1-866-436-7847) or visit the Company’s website at www.fortisbc.com. The full BCUC decision is also available at http://www.bcuc.com/NewlyReleased.aspx. About FortisBC FortisBC Inc. is an integrated regulated electric utility based in Kelowna, British Columbia. Focused on the safe delivery of reliable and cost-effective electricity, FortisBC serves approximately 157,000 customers directly and indirectly through wholesale utilities in the southern interior of B.C. FortisBC owns and operates four regulated hydroelectric generating plants and approximately 7,000 kilometers of transmission and distribution power lines. FortisBC employs over 500 people in British Columbia and is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Fortis Inc., the largest investor-owned distribution utility in Canada. With total assets exceeding $10.5 billion and annual revenues expected to be approximately $3.7 billion, Fortis Inc. serves more than 2,000,000 gas and electric customers. Fortis Inc. shares are listed News Release on the Toronto Stock Exchange and trade under the symbol FTS. Additional information can be accessed at www.fortisinc.com or www.sedar.com . For more information: |
 
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