Outlook for electricity markets, 2005-2006 : Perspectives du marché de l'électricité, 2005-2006

Although the organization of the market and the degree of restructuring varies, governments and electric utilities across the country are endeavouring to balance three common long-term objectives: x AN ENERGY MARKET ASSESSMENT adequate and reliable supply; environmental sustainability; and acceptable electricity prices. [...] The drivers include the establishment of regional renewable portfolio standards, incentives such as the federal Wind Power Production Incentive (WPPI), the coming into force of the Kyoto Protocol and the general desire for clean air. [...] Although BC Hydro, the largest electricity utility in British Columbia, has the goal of being a self-sufficient supplier of capacity and energy, it takes advantage of trade opportunities with connected regions to optimize the economic benefits of the province’s hydro resources. [...] The cornerstones of the BC Energy Plan are to maintain low electricity rates and maintain public ownership of BC Hydro’s core assets, to have secure energy supply to meet current and future requirements, to stimulate private investment, and to have environmentally responsible energy development excluding nuclear generation. [...] Even with the approved rate increase for BC Hydro and the proposed rate increase for FortisBC, B. C.’s electricity rates will continue to be below the national average as a result of the hydro-based resources and ratepayer entitlement to these resources.5 Trade From the standpoint of interprovincial transfers, electricity normally flows from British Columbia to Alberta during peak hours and from A