Site C is a large hydroelectric dam, generating station and related facilities being constructed on the Peace River in northeast British Columbia, that will provide enough electricity to power the equivalent of 450,000 homes. BC Hydro began constructing Site C in 2015 following a lengthy review and consultation process. The project is one of the largest public infrastructure projects ever constructed in British Columbia.
Fasken advised BC Hydro throughout the project review period, including through a cooperative federal-provincial environmental assessment that included a six-week hearing before an independent joint review panel. The joint review panel heard from local communities, government agencies, First Nations, local landowners, and interested organizations and members of the public, and ultimately produced a report over 400 pages long. Following receipt of the report, two provincial Ministers and the federal Governor in Council approved the Site C project in October 2014.
In 2017, after a change in provincial government, British Columbia ordered the BC Utilities Commission to undertake a further public inquiry into aspects of Site C. The BC Utilities Commission conducted an expedited 3-month hearing receiving hundreds of written and oral submissions and produced a report for government. In December 2017, following receipt of the report, the provincial government elected to complete Site C. Fasken acted for BC Hydro throughout this process.
Fasken continues to provide ongoing regulatory advice to BC Hydro on permitting and compliance. Fasken has also acted for BC Hydro with respect to Indigenous issues and on litigation related to Site C.
Fasken represents BC Hydro and Power Authority with a team that includes Peter Feldberg, Bridget Gilbride, Gavin Cameron, Kerry Kaukinen, Niall Rand, Matt Ghikas, Chris Bystrom and Rob Lonergan.
Jurisdiction
- British Columbia
