• The GM Shrum and Peace Canyon generating stations on the Peace River produce about 30% of BC Hydro's energy output. Collectively, the projects have a total capacity of 3,424 megawatts (MW) and produce, on average, 16,360 GWh/yr of energy.
• The proposed Site C project would provide an additional 1,100 MW of capacity and 5,100 GWh of energy, increasing the region's contribution to BC Hydro's energy output to 35%.

Water Use in Hydropower

• More than 100 billion cubic metres of water is allocated per year under existing licences for hydropower generation through the GM Shrum and Peace Canyon generating stations (non-consumptive use).
• Site C would take advantage of water already stored in the Williston Reservoir and regulated by the Bennett Dam and the associated GM Shrum generating station.

Water Stewardship Strategies

• BC Hydro's Peace River projects are regulated under the Water Act, Water Regulation and Dam Safety Regulation. Associated water licences govern generation discharge and reservoir storage.
• The Peace River Water Use Plan was developed with input from local stakeholders, First Nations, interested groups and provincial and federal government agencies.
• The overall goal of the Peace Water Use Plan was to find a better balance among water use interests, including: reliable and low-cost energy; fish and wildlife; recreation; heritage; First Nations; and flood risk reduction.
• The Peace Water Use Plan has resulted in operational changes (e.g. establishing minimum flows for fish and interim reservoir restrictions), the implementation of monitoring studies (for fish, dust mitigation and riparian vegetation) and physical works programs (boat ramp improvements, habitat enhancement, etc.).
• The Peace Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program was established in 1988 and  conserves and enhances fish and wildlife habitat affected by the construction of the W.A.C. Bennett and Peace Canyon dams.

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261