Site C dam is fully operational
The facility can now produce more than 1,100 megawatts of electricity — enough to power about 500,000 homes a year.
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Key Takeaways:
- BC Hydro has fully commissioned all six generating units at the Site C dam, adding over 1,100 megawatts of capacity and increasing B.C.’s electricity supply by about eight per cent.
- The project, which began construction in 2015, will provide enough clean power for roughly 500,000 homes annually and is expected to operate for the next 100 years.
- Remaining work includes completing infrastructure, restoring the surrounding area, and keeping the public away from the reservoir until at least spring 2026 due to safety hazards.
The Whole Story:
BC Hydro has fully commissioned the sixth and final generating unit at its $16-billion Site C hydroelectric project, marking a major milestone nearly a decade after construction began.
With all units now in service, the dam on the Peace River can produce more than 1,100 megawatts of electricity — enough to power about 500,000 homes a year — boosting the province’s total electricity supply by roughly eight per cent. Officials say the increase will help meet B.C.’s growing demand for clean energy.
“This is another step forward to securing B.C.’s clean energy future,” said Energy Minister Adrian Dix, who thanked the thousands of workers involved since construction began in 2015.
The first generating unit came online in October 2024, with the rest brought into operation over the following 10 months. BC Hydro president and CEO Charlotte Mitha called the completion “a proud moment,” saying Site C will operate for the next century and play a key role in keeping the power system stable and reliable.
Remaining work on the project includes finishing the powerhouse and generating station, paving access roads, final equipment testing and closing out deficiencies. Crews are also backfilling tunnels used to divert the Peace River and restoring areas disturbed by construction.
BC Hydro is warning the public to stay away from the Site C reservoir and nearby slopes due to hazards such as floating debris and unstable shorelines. Public boat launches are not expected to open until spring 2026 at the earliest.
