BC Hydro has completed the $16B Site C hydroelectric project with the commissioning of its sixth and final generating unit.
With all six units now in service, the hydroelectric dam and generating station has the capacity to generate more than 1,100 megawatts of electricity, and enough energy to reliably power about 500,000 homes annually. The project increases BC Hydro’s total electricity supply by about eight per cent, strengthening energy reliability and supporting the province’s growing need for clean power.
“The commission of Site C’s final generating unit is another step forward to securing B.C.’s clean energy future,” said Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix. “I extend my sincere appreciation to the thousands of people who worked on Site C over the past decade – because of your work, generations of British Columbians will benefit from reliable and affordable clean electricity.”
Construction on Site C began in 2015 and the first generating unit came online in October 2024, with subsequent units coming into service over the following 10 months. Key project structures such as the earthfill dam, powerhouse, spillways, approach channel, substation and transmission connection to the provincial grid continue to perform well.
“Bringing the final generating unit online is a proud moment for everyone at BC Hydro, said Charlotte Mitha, BC Hydro president and CEO. “Site C represents years of dedication, innovation, collaboration and overcoming challenges. Now that Site C is in full operation, it will serve our customers for the next 100 years and play a critical role in ensuring a stable and reliable electricity system.”
With the sixth generating unit in operation, the focus of the remaining construction work on the project will include completing the powerhouse and generating station, finishing paving on access roads, final equipment commissioning and addressing any deficiencies. Work also continues to backfill the tunnels used to divert the Peace River, and revegetate areas no longer required for construction.
