The project features a new substation in Mount Pleasant and an underground transmission line linking the new substation to two existing ones in Vancouver and Kerrisdale.
BC Hydro said the substation’s design allows it to continue functioning even after a major earthquake.
The new line and substation will provide backup power to customers if an older transmission circuit is affected during an outage.
BC Hydro executive vice-president of transmission & distribution Greg Reimer said, "This project represents the single largest investment BC Hydro has made in central Vancouver’s electrical system in almost 30 years and will help to power Vancouver’s growth."
BC Hydro said most of its facilities, which were constructed long ago, are in need of reinvestment.
The company is required to invest around $2bn per year over the next ten years to refurbish, upgrade and expand the system.
BC Hydro serves 1.9 million customers and invests in the electrical system and in energy conservation to deliver a reliable supply of electricity.
