Ruskin Dam & Powerhouse Upgrade

Aging facility needs an upgrade

Since the 1930's, the Ruskin Dam and Generating Station has provided a clean and reliable supply of electricity to homes and businesses in the Lower Mainland of B.C. After more than 80 years of service, the facility is aging and is in need of a major upgrade to improve seismic performance and upgrade the powerhouse.

Seismic upgrade a key component of project


BC Hydro is planning a major investment to the Ruskin station, which is more than 80 years old. Pending approval by the British Columbia Utilities Commission, construction is expected to start in 2012.

Check out the Ruskin Regeneration [YouTube] video to learn more.

Status update/Traffic impacts

From early January to March 31, 2012 we will be conducting geotechnical investigations and pre-construction activities. This work will include a jet-grout field trial that will take approximately three weeks. The jet-grout field trail will provide an opportunity for us to record noise levels and assess what impact construction noise will have on residents when construction begins later this year.

On-site activities will take place between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Work is not anticipated to take place on Sundays, however, if it needs to occur, it is anticipated to take place between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Single lane closures of Wilson Street will be required for this work. Traffic control personnel will be on site and priority access will be provided for emergency vehicles and the school bus. Hayward Street across the dam will be closed for a short duration during this work period. Notice of the exact dates and times will be provided.


Project background

Improved seismic peformance, public safety, reliability and efficiency at the heart of the project.

What's being done

Project includes four main components, including a seismic upgrade.

Construction schedule

Project expected to take six years to complete, based on two ten hours shifts, six days a week.

Consultation

We will keep people informed of our progress during construction and work with affected residents and businesses.

Construction impacts

BC Hydro will work as quickly as possible to complete its work and minimize disruption to local area residents.

Regulatory Approval

On February 22, 2011, BC Hydro submitted an application for a certificate to the BCUC.

Procurement & Supplier Opportunities

Work opportunities at Ruskin will be advertised on the BC Bid website.

Information Center

Project updates, fact sheets, news releases, images, maps and videos.

Quick Facts header

Cost

Between $718 and $857 million

Completion

2018

What's being done

Upgrades to improve seismic performance, protect fish and wildlife and upgrade the powerhouse.

Benefits

Upgraded facility to provide electricity for 33,000 homes.

Cool fact

The Ruskin control room contains an original light bulb that has continued to work since the plant started operation in 1930.

Contact us

If you would like to learn more about the project, please contact us by:

Toll free: 1 800 663 1377
Email

Last Modified: Feb 1, 2012