BC Hydro Says Reservoir Inflows Below Normal

VANCOUVER -- BC Hydro said a preliminary analysis of this winter snowpack in the western Canadian mountains indicates inflows to its reservoirs will be 10 per cent below normal.

The provincially owned power utility, which also exports electricity to the United States, said it still expects to meet its revenue target of CAN$300 million (US$196 million) despite the low water levels used to supply its hydroelectric facilities.

BC Hydro warned that if the low snowpack levels continue it could cause the utility difficulty in its next fiscal year by pushing up costs. It said it will work to reduce demand through conservation programs.

The utility cautioned that its snow analysis was very preliminary and it expects to release a more detailed report in April.

Source: Reuters