Dam site, 6 November 2024.
Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, praised the achievement, 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 comment reflects the project’s role in supporting the province’s energy needs.
The first unit began producing power in October 2024, with subsequent units coming online in December and February. Each unit delivers over 180 megawatts (MW), sufficient to supply around 80,000 homes. The addition of the fourth unit boosts the project’s contribution to British Columbia’s grid significantly.
BC Hydro has now shifted focus to testing and commissioning the fifth unit. All six generating units are slated to be fully functional by fall 2025. This phased approach ensures a steady increase in capacity while maintaining operational stability.
Upon completion, Site C is expected to generate enough electricity to serve nearly 500,000 homes annually. This will expand BC Hydro’s overall supply by approximately eight percent, enhancing the province’s ability to meet domestic consumption demands with renewable energy.
The project, located in British Columbia, harnesses hydroelectric power to provide a sustainable energy source. Its progress underscores a commitment to reliable electricity without relying on external imports, focusing instead on local generation for regional use. The activation of each unit builds on the previous ones, ensuring a smooth ramp-up to full operation.
With four units now active, Site C is well on its way to becoming a cornerstone of British Columbia’s energy infrastructure. The remaining two units, once operational, will complete the project’s capacity, delivering long-term benefits to residents and businesses alike. The initiative aligns with efforts to secure a clean energy future for the province.
The steady rollout of generating units highlights effective coordination among the Site C workforce and BC Hydro. As testing continues for the fifth unit, the project remains on track for its fall 2025 target. This development strengthens the region’s energy independence, utilizing its natural resources efficiently.
Site C’s contribution will support British Columbia’s growing energy needs sustainably. The fourth unit’s activation marks a key phase in a project designed to provide consistent, renewable power for years to come, reinforcing the province’s grid with locally produced electricity.
