BCSEA Feb 2025 Newsletter

As 2025 begins, it’s shaping up to be a transformative year for clean electricity in BC.   British Columbians continue to adopt electric vehicles and heat pumps to reduce their fossil fuel use, and the province remains committed to expanding its electric supply.  These investments will be crucial for the transition to a clean energy future, as about 65% of BC’s end-use energy today still comes from fossil fuels.

Last year the Site C dam started to come online, with the second of six generating units coming into operation.  By late 2025, all six units are expected to be fully operational, making Site C the fourth-largest hydroelectric station in BC, with 1,100 megawatts (MW) of capacity and an estimated annual output of 5,100 gigawatt hours (GWh).

As Site C ramped up, nine new wind projects were announced as part of the first of a series of calls for clean power.  The nine projects will add another 1,531 MW and an estimated 5,000 GWh per year, nearly as much as Site C!

Homeowners can also take direct action by accessing rebates of up to $10,000 for solar panels and battery storage.  Check your eligibility at bchydro.com/solarrebates.  Find a directory of licensed contractors at bcsea.org/members-directory.

These projects mark a major step toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future!  Stay tuned for updates through our events and webinars. If you miss a live session, catch the recording in our members-only section.

Neil Andrews, Board Director, BCSEA