BC Hydro has announced that the Site C dam near Fort St. John is now fully operational after its sixth and final turbine was activated. This milestone marks the completion of the hydroelectric project on the Peace River in northern British Columbia.
The dam can now generate 1,100 megawatts of electricity. This amount of power is enough to supply half a million homes every year. It will provide clean, reliable energy to BC Hydro customers for the next 100 years.
Adrian Dix, B.C.’s Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, said this development is a major win for the province. He added that generations of British Columbians will benefit from affordable and sustainable electricity.
Charlotte Mitha, BC Hydro’s president and CEO, emphasized the long-term value of Site C. She noted the project will serve the province’s power needs for many decades to come.
Construction began in July 2015 under the leadership of then-Premier Christy Clark. The project continued under Premier John Horgan after a government review. Despite its benefits, the dam faced criticism and delays during construction.
The final cost of Site C reached $16 billion, nearly double the original estimate. This makes it British Columbia’s most expensive infrastructure project to date.
Despite its high price, the dam is expected to play a vital role in the province’s clean energy future. It supports B.C.’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing renewable power.
