(Image Credit: Teck Resources)
BC Hydro grant

BC Hydro to receive up to $50M to support Highland Valley mine life extension

May 11, 2026 | 1:40 PM

KAMLOOPS — The BC Hydro and Power Authority will receive up to $50 million to help extend the life of a copper mine near Kamloops.

The funding is part of the federal government’s $100-million investment into five B.C.- based projects aimed at boosting critical mineral development within the province.

“British Columbia has world–class minerals, clean power and strong Indigenous leadership, and we are turning our critical mineral advantage into action,” said Randeep Sarai, secretary of state for international development.

“Today’s investments are strengthening transmission, supporting Indigenous communities and unlocking major projects across the province. This is about creating good jobs and opportunity for British Columbians while securing Canada’s place as a leader in the global clean-energy economy.”

Project funding is coming from the First and Last Mile Fund, Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships Program and the Energy Innovation Program.

Natural Resources Canada said the $50-million grant will be used to upgrade the BC Hydro regional transmission system in support of Teck Resources’ Highland Valley Copper Mine Life Extension project near Logan Lake.

“BC Hydro has been a cornerstone of economic growth and sustainability in British Columbia – because one of our biggest competitive advantages is our clean, reliable and affordable electricity,” said Charlotte Mitha, BC Hydro President and CEO

This funding supports our ongoing work to expand our grid and deliver clean power to the critical minerals sector while keeping costs affordable for our customers.”

You can read about the other projects set to receive a cut of the federal funding initiative here.