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Site C Hydroelectric Project Reaches Major Milestone with Fourth Unit Operational
The Site C project, managed by B.C. Hydro and boasting a capacity of 1,100 megawatts, has achieved a significant development as its fourth generating unit has become operational. This advancement signifies that two-thirds of the project’s total generating capacity is now in service.
Adrian Dix, the Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the construction team, stating, “Congratulations to all the workers at Site C for reaching this important milestone in construction. Another generating unit in operation is another step forward as we work to build a secure supply of clean, affordable, reliable electricity to power British Columbia into the future.”
The operational timeline of the project showcases its steady progress; the first unit was activated in October 2024, followed by the second in December, the third in February, and now the fourth unit has been brought online. Each of these units is designed to produce over 180 megawatts of electricity.
With the fourth unit now in operation, B.C. Hydro has initiated testing and commissioning processes for the fifth unit, maintaining their target to have all six units operational by the fall of 2025.
In August of the previous year, B.C. Hydro took a critical step by commencing the filling of the Site C Clean Energy Project reservoir after completing all necessary construction activities. This crucial phase allows the generating station, spillways, turbines, and generators to begin functioning effectively.
Upon completion, Site C will stand as the third dam and hydroelectric generating facility located on the Peace River in northeast British Columbia. It is projected to generate approximately 5,100 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually, contributing about 8% more to the local power grid. Spanning 83 kilometers, the Site C reservoir will cover around 5,550 hectares, with a total surface area approximately 9,330 hectares.
Source
www.renewableenergyworld.com