BC Hydro has announced that the first of six generating units at the Site C Clean Energy Project has come into operation, marking a critical milestone for British Columbia’s hydroelectric sector. This achievement follows extensive testing and commissioning as part of the construction of the province’s third major dam and generating station on the Peace River in northeast B.C, Canada.
The Site C project is expected to expand British Columbia’s hydroelectric capacity by adding approximately 1100MW, with an annual generation potential of around 5,100GWh. This increase will contribute about 8% to the province’s electricity supply, providing clean energy for nearly 500,000 homes or around 1.7 million electric vehicles. When all six units are operational, which is anticipated by fall 2025, Site C will be a key asset in the province’s move towards a low-carbon energy future.
In one of the final phases of the project, BC Hydro began filling the Site C reservoir on August 25, 2024. This process is expected to take two to four months, gradually creating an 83km-long reservoir with a total surface area of 9,330 hectares. Water levels are rising between 30cm and three meters daily, with the reservoir now more than 90% filled and water levels at the dam rising by about 40 meters since the process began.
To ensure stability and manage risks, BC Hydro has implemented strict safety protocols. The public is strongly urged to avoid the reservoir area during this phase and for at least a year afterward, as there may be hazards due to unstable land and floating vegetation debris. Comprehensive warning signs have been posted around the area, and nearby boat launches remain closed until it is safe to reopen them.
Throughout the Site C project, BC Hydro has worked to address environmental concerns, including scheduling reservoir filling between bird nesting and winter denning seasons to minimize wildlife disruption. Vegetation removal, wetland construction, and fish habitat development have also been undertaken to support local ecosystems.
The project team has taken further steps to engage with the community and local First Nations. This includes open houses, tours, and collaborations on cultural initiatives, such as the establishment of a cultural center in the Peace region. To address agricultural impacts, BC Hydro has set up a $20 million Peace Agricultural Compensation Fund, aimed at supporting local farming initiatives and offsetting the impact on agricultural land.
The Site C project, which began in 2015, remains on schedule and within the budget approved in 2021. BC Hydro anticipates the second generating unit will come online soon, with testing and commissioning underway.
