An environmentalist is calling on British Columbia to learn from the lessons of previous dam projects before moving forward with new hydroelectric developments. The warning comes as BC Hydro's Site C dam and generating station on the Peace River near Fort St. John, B.C., continues to draw scrutiny.
Site C Dam Under Scrutiny
The Site C project, a massive hydroelectric dam on the Peace River, has been a subject of debate for years. Critics point to its environmental impact, including flooding of agricultural land and disruption to Indigenous communities. The project, which began construction in 2015, is expected to be completed by 2025, but its legacy is already being questioned.
Environmentalist's Concerns
Speaking on behalf of several environmental groups, the activist emphasized that B.C. must not repeat past mistakes. “We need to thoroughly assess the ecological and social costs of previous dams before committing to new ones,” they said. “The Site C dam has already caused significant damage, and we must ensure future projects are more sustainable and respectful of local communities.”
The call for caution comes amid growing pressure on the province to expand its renewable energy capacity. However, environmentalists argue that alternatives such as wind and solar power should be prioritized over large-scale hydroelectric projects.
Lessons from the Past
The activist pointed to several case studies, including the Bennett Dam on the Peace River and the Kemano Completion Project, which faced significant opposition and environmental challenges. “Each dam has left a lasting impact on the landscape and the people who depend on it,” they said. “We have a responsibility to learn from these experiences.”
The B.C. government has yet to announce any new dam projects, but the debate is expected to intensify as the province seeks to meet its climate goals. Environmentalists are urging policymakers to consider the full lifecycle costs of hydroelectric development, including methane emissions from reservoirs and the loss of biodiversity.
Meanwhile, BC Hydro has defended the Site C project, stating that it will provide clean, reliable electricity for decades to come. The utility says it is committed to mitigating environmental impacts and working with Indigenous communities.
