The Upnit Power Corporation was co-founded by City of Port Alberni, the Hupacasath First Nation, the Ucluelet First Nation and Synex Energy to develop run-of-river hydro electricity projects.
Opposition to the proposed Duke Point natural gasi facility led council to explore alternative ‘green’ options for energy generation. A federally funded community energy plan investigated suitable sites for a run-of-river project that would have minimal impact on the environment.
The $14 million China Creek hydroelectric project, completed in 2005, generates 6.5 mega watts of green electricity and has the capacity to supply power for 6,000 homes.
More run-of-river projects are planned for the future and are supported by a 20 year electricity purchase contract with BC Hydro.
The Upnit Power Corporation is a leading edge example of how local power projects can be both profitable and environmentally sustainable. They are sharing their best practices in power generation with interested parties from all over the world.