(UPDATE) Site C becomes fully operational after sixth generating unit enabled

Updated, August 11th, 10 a.m.: This story was updated to correct an error about the location of the dam. Energeticcity.ca is happy to set the record straight.

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The sixth and final operating unit for the Site C hydroelectric dam is officially operational.

BC Hydro announced via a press release on Saturday, August 9th that the final generating unit had been turned on.

The news comes less than a month after the fifth operating unit was enabled, and slightly ahead of previous estimates that the Fort St. John-based facility would be fully operational in the fall.

The utility claims Site C is now capable of producing enough electricity to power roughly 500,000 homes annually across B.C., increasing its total electricity supply by roughly eight per cent.

“Bringing the final generating unit online is a proud moment for everyone at BC Hydro,” said Charlotte Mitha, BC Hydro president and chief executive officer. 

“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 on Site C first began in 2015. The first generating unit was enabled in October 2024, with the rest being gradually turned on over the course of the last 10 months.

Now that the final unit is online, remaining construction work at the facility will be focused on completing its powerhouse and generating station, paving access roads, commissioning any final equipment still needed and addressing any deficiencies that crop up.

Residents are also still urged to stay away from Site C and its reservoir for the time being, as BC Hydro claims there are still “a number of hazards” like floating debris in the water that make it unsafe for public access.

New boat launches are expected to become available in the area in the spring of 2026.