Construction is set to begin this summer on a new energy centre at Victoria General Hospital (VGH). The project will modernize and strengthen the hospital’s power systems, supporting the continued delivery of high‑quality care and enabling future expansion of services at the site.
With the region’s population projected to grow significantly over the next 25 years and the current energy system at the hospital already near capacity, the new energy centre will provide modern electrical infrastructure to support new equipment, technology, and future services.
“It’s critical that the infrastructure people rely on is built to last,” said Darlene Rotchford, MLA for Esquimalt-Colwood. “The new energy centre will ensure the hospital can continue to deliver safe, reliable care as the region continues to grow.”
The new energy centre will incorporate modern design standards to help the hospital remain functional during significant disruptions, such as power outages, earthquakes or flooding. These upgrades will ensure patients continue to benefit from consistent care as new services and technology are added in the years ahead.
“This investment strengthens the hospital’s ability to meet the current and future needs of our communities,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health Board Chair. “Patients rely on VGH every day. Ensuring we have reliable energy infrastructure means we can continue providing uninterrupted care and be ready for future demands.”
Tree removal for the project will begin in mid‑February and be completed before the start of the spring bird‑nesting season. Island Health worked with accredited arborists to identify which trees can be safely retained and which will need to be removed.
“Our region continues to grow, bringing more demand for hospital services,” said Kevin Murdoch, Capital Regional Hospital District Board Chair. “This investment helps ensure both current and future residents can take comfort knowing their hospital will have the spaces, resources, and capacity to help them and their loved ones when they need it.”
The $75.6‑million project is jointly funded by the Province of British Columbia through Island Health ($52.9 million) and the Capital Regional Hospital District ($22.7 million).
Construction will begin in summer 2026 and is expected to be complete in 2029.