Electricity is starting to flow from the Site C hydroelectric project, which has marked a significant milestone with the successful operation of its first generating unit after completing the necessary testing and commissioning process.
BC Hydro made the announcement Monday.
This unit is the first of six planned for the project, each capable of delivering over 180 megawatts of power to BC Hydro customers from the facility, located about 400 kilometres north of Prince George.
The remaining units will be brought online sequentially, with all six expected to be operational by fall 2025.
Once fully operational, Site C will provide approximately 1,100 megawatts of capacity and generate around 5,100 gigawatt hours of electricity annually, contributing an estimated eight per cent increase to British Columbia’s electricity supply.
As reservoir filling progresses, the Site C reservoir is currently more than 90 per cent full, with water levels at the dam rising by about 40 metres since filling commenced in late August. This elevation is critical for the operation of the generating units, BC Hydro states. Reservoir filling is on track to conclude later this fall, and testing for the second generating unit is already underway.
BC Hydro is urging the public to avoid the reservoir area during filling and for at least one year afterward, due to potential hazards including unstable surrounding land and floating vegetation debris.
Comprehensive warning signs have been installed to ensure public safety, and existing boat launches will remain closed until it is deemed safe for public access.
In preparation for reservoir filling, BC Hydro has engaged with local communities and First Nations through open houses, field tours, and support initiatives. They are also collaborating on a cultural centre in the Peace region.
The impact on agricultural land in the Peace Agricultural Region is minimal, with less than one percent affected. A $20 million Peace Agricultural Compensation Fund has been established to support local agricultural initiatives.
To mitigate wildlife impacts, BC Hydro is removing vegetation from the reservoir area while also creating wetlands and wildlife habitats. The timing of the reservoir filling is designed to minimize disruptions to wildlife, falling between critical nesting and denning periods.
Despite the current provincial drought, water conditions will not affect the filling of the Site C reservoir, as it will draw water from the upstream Williston Reservoir. This volume is significantly lower than the annual discharge from Williston, even in drought conditions, ensuring that downstream flows remain stable.
Key facts about Site C:
- The Site C project is a third dam and hydroelectric generating station on the Peace River, initiated in July 2015 and now more than 85 per cent complete.
- The first generating unit is set to come into service in December 2024, with all units projected to be operational by fall 2025.
- The project remains within its approved 2021 budget and aims to provide enough clean electricity for nearly 500,000 homes or 1.7 million electric vehicles.
BC Hydro will continue to provide updates on the status of the reservoir filling on its website.
