Image Credit: BC Hydro

By Victor Kaisar

Site C Dam

Sixth and final generating unit operational at Site C dam in northern B.C.

Aug 9, 2025 | 10:39 AM

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — BC Hydro says it has reached an historic milestone as the sixth and final power-generating turbine at the Site C dam is now up and running.

The Crown Corporation says it means the dam along the Peace River near Fort St John will be able to generate more than 1,100 megawatts of electricity, which is enough to power about 500,000 homes a year.

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

“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 project began in 2015 under former B.C. Liberal premier Christy Clark and it continued under late NDP premier John Horgan, following a review of the project. The first turbine came online in October last year.

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“Bringing the final generating unit online is a proud moment for everyone at BC Hydro,” added Charlotte Mitha, BC Hydro’s 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 all six generating units in operation, BC Hydro says it will now focus on completing the powerhouse and generating station as well as paving access roads to the site. It will also work to address any deficiencies in the project that are identified.

Work also continues to backfill the tunnels used to divert the Peace River, and revegetate areas that are no longer required for construction.

People are still being urged to stay away from the Site C reservoir because of a number of hazards that are still present. BC Hydro says the new public boat launches are expected to open in the spring once the reservoir is deemed to be safe.

With a final price tag of $16 billion, nearly double of its initial price tag, the Site C dam is considered to be B.C.’s most expensive infrastructure project.