Another Dam Update for Site C: Final Generating Unit is Online

Site C is fully operational as the sixth and final generation unit is finally online at the dam which was a historic milestone for BC Hydro.

The completion of the final sixth generating unity means the project can now produce more than 1,100 megawatts of power, enough energy to supply close to half a million homes annually according to a media release from BC Hydro.

This will increase BC Hydro's total supply by about eight per cent, enhancing the province's energy security and helping to meet increasing demand for clean, renewable power.

“The commission of Site C’s final generating unit is another step forward to securing B.C.’s clean energy future,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “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.”

The work on Site C began in 2015, which eventually changed the face of the North Peace forever. The first generating unit became operational in October 2024, while the other five units were completed and put online over the last 10 months.

Major components of the project including the powerhouse, spillways, earthfill dam, approach channel, substation, and transmission link to the provincial grid are all reported to be operating 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.”

Construction efforts at the dam are now focused on finishing the powerhouse and generating station, paving the remaining sections of access roads, completing equipment commissioning and remedying any remaining deficiencies.

Other crews are also backfilling the former Peace River diversion tunnels and re-vegetating areas of the construction site no longer needed for construction.

BC Hydro is reiterating its request that the public stay away from the Site C reservoir and surrounding slopes due to safety concerns. The hazards include debris from floating vegetation and shifting shoreline and adjacent slopes.

BC Hydro says its planned public boat launches will not be ready for use until the shoreline is deemed safe. That is not expected to happen until at least the spring of 2026 according to their website.