About Us
Innovation
Research & Development
R&D That Starts With the Real World
Innovation at Powertech is grounded in application. We don’t invent in a vacuum—we develop in context. Every R&D initiative is rooted in a challenge faced by energy providers, OEMs, manufacturers, or emerging technology developers. Whether it’s testing advanced grid materials, optimizing transformer life cycles, or simulating extreme conditions, our work is designed to perform under real-world constraints. Our areas of innovation include:
Advanced Diagnostics & Predictive Modeling
Enabling early failure detection and preventative maintenance.
Emerging Materials & System Design
From hydrogen compatibility to HV insulation breakthroughs.
Power Systems Simulation & Integration
Modeling future scenarios for utilities around the globe.
Clean Transportation & Grid Modernization
Supporting the shift to EVs and decentralized energy.
Cutting-Edge R&D Programs
We explore new materials, advanced diagnostics, and system designs that shape the future of clean energy. Our projects often focus on extending facility service life, enhancing performance, and optimizing maintenance—all while reducing environmental impacts.
Real-World Impact
The tools and solutions we develop aren’t just theoretical. They’ve made utility field work safer, ensured the reliability of grid operations, and cut the costs of energy delivery. For clients, this delivers tangible value in avoided costs, productivity gains, energy efficiency, and environmental benefits.
Collaborative Approach
Through alliances with universities, industry consortia, and government agencies, we drive practical breakthroughs that contribute to Powertech’s reputation as a world-renowned testing, engineering and research laboratory. This collaboration ensures our innovations meet real-world needs and keep pace with rapidly evolving energy technologies.
Culture of Continuous Improvement
Each engagement benefits from our cross-disciplinary learnings—helping us refine best practices and stay a step ahead of industry trends. We’re proud to be a catalog of firsts, from groundbreaking research to globally adopted solutions that further our goal of providing reliable, future-ready energy systems.
By focusing on practical ingenuity and industry-leading R&D, Powertech Labs helps BC Hydro—and partners worldwide—realize a cleaner, more innovative energy future. Whether we’re investigating next-generation materials for grid operations or designing tools that save time and costs in the field, our commitment to innovation drives every breakthrough we bring to life.
“Innovation isn’t just about inventing new technologies—it’s about solving the right problems in the right way. At Powertech, we engineer solutions that are reliable, scalable, and ready for the real world.”
Xi Lin, P.Eng.
Director of Engineering Services
Let’s Build What’s Next
Whether you're advancing clean energy systems, optimizing grid performance, or prototyping breakthrough technologies, Powertech brings science, strategy, and scale to your innovation journey.
Start a conversation with our team.
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