Anahim Lake Station upgrade

Powering a Cleaner future at Anahim Lake

Anahim Lake is one of 14 non-integrated areas (NIA) served by BC Hydro. We first became service providers to Anahim Lake in the 1970's, and the community is currently powered by diesel-generated electricity.

We recently signed a 20-year Community Electricity Purchase Agreement with Ulkatcho Energy Corporation to purchase their solar energy. We are targeting a 64% reduction in diesel use in Anahim Lake – reducing approximately 1,000,000 litres of diesel per year – once fully commissioned. A project this size is the first of its kind in Canada and may require additional commissioning after it is up and running to meet projected diesel reduction targets.

To integrate the solar energy, we're upgrading the Anahim Lake Station, marking a major step toward a more sustainable energy future for the community. This innovative project will reduce reliance on diesel-generated electricity for decades to come.

To support this transition, we're installing:

• Battery energy storage system: Stores excess solar energy during the day and delivers it when needed, like at night or during cloudy periods.
• Two temporary diesel generators: Supports the testing and commissioning of the new battery energy storage system and microgrid control system.
• Microgrid control system: Coordinates the flow of solar and stored energy with existing infrastructure to ensure a stable, reliable power supply.
• Supporting equipment: Includes inverters, transformers, and communication systems to enable efficient energy management and monitoring.

BC Hydro is upgrading the Anahim Lake Station to integrate the solar power generated by Ulkatcho Energy Corporation's Solar Farm. This solar energy will eventually support a significant portion of the community's energy needs.

This is the largest project of its kind in British Columbia and sets a new standard for renewable energy integration in remote communities.