Wind energy project in Tumbler Ridge exploring major expansion

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The regional district has received notice of a possible expansion to an already proposed wind energy project near Tumbler Ridge. 

During the November 20th board meeting, directors reviewed a letter from Invenergy about an investigative-use licence near a wind energy project in Tumbler Ridge. 

The company has previously contacted the board regarding its Hourglass Wind Energy Centre project in October, which it intends to submit to the 2025 BC Hydro Call for Power.

According to the letter, Invenergy is looking to investigate expanding the Hourglass project into a region “immediately adjacent,” using both areas in the call for power bid. The Hourglass project is located 21 kilometres northeast of the District of Tumbler Ridge on the eastern side of Highway 52. 

Invenergy explains the Hourglass project is expected to feature a meteorological tower, a project substation, between 32 and 45 turbines and a transmission line connecting to the existing substation in Tumbler Ridge. 

The company anticipates that if an electricity purchase agreement is awarded by BC Hydro, Hourglass will undergo review and approval, with design and permitting starting in mid-2026 and construction starting between 2030 and 2032.

The regional board was asked to provide a response within two weeks of receiving the letter to relay any comments, concerns or objections to the project that is expected to generate 200-250 megawatts of power. 

The letter was received for information by the board and not discussed during the November 20th meeting. 

To read the full letter, see below.