Wind energy project proposed for Peace region would power about 48,000 homes

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — A new large-scale wind energy project could be coming to the Peace region. 

Invenergy’s Hourglass Wind Energy Centre, located within Treaty 8 territory off Highway 52 near Tumbler Ridge, would feature between 32 and 45 turbines capable of generating 200 to 250 megawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately 48,000 Canadian homes, according to the company.

According to Mike Enright, Invenergy’s director of renewable development, the project remains in the early stages of development but has already undergone detailed environmental assessments.

“Detailed environmental assessments have been completed to responsibly site the facility,” said Enright. “In January, the project will be bid into BC Hydro’s 2025 competitive Call for Power to compete for an Electricity Purchase Agreement.”

If selected by BC Hydro, Invenergy anticipates beginning construction in 2030, with commercial operations slated to start in 2032.

Enright said the company selected the Peace region for its strong wind resource, calling it “an ideal location to help meet Canada’s growing energy demand.”

According to Invenergy, the project would not only provide clean, homegrown power but also create jobs and economic opportunities across the Peace region. 

The Hourglass Wind Energy Centre remains in the site characterization and permitting phase, during which Invenergy continues environmental surveys, submits required municipal, provincial and federal applications and meets with community members and officials.

For more information, residents can contact Invenergy through its project website.