Vancouver, BC – August 8, 2024 – The Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) is thrilled to celebrate the opening of the Ahtaapq Creek Hydro Project, a groundbreaking initiative in sustainable energy and community resilience. This success is a result of the collaboration between Hesquiaht First Nation and Barkley Project Group, both valued members of CEBC. The opening ceremony is taking place today at Hot Springs Cove, the main community of the Hesquiaht First Nation.
The 350 KW Run-of-River Hydro facility, a significant achievement, reduces the community’s reliance on diesel power by approximately 71% on annual basis. This project marks a crucial step toward environmental stewardship and economic sustainability, expected to save $375,000 in costs its first year alone by decreasing diesel usage.
The Hesquiaht First Nation, the most northerly and remote of the Nuu-chah-nulth Nations, has long sought to transition from diesel power, which poses environmental risks and generates at substantially high costs. The new hydro facility mitigates these issues, providing reliable and renewable energy. The project not only supports cleaner air and reduced noise pollution but also brings peace and quiet to Hot Springs Cove.
The project’s success is a result of a strong partnership between the Hesquiaht First Nation and the Barkley Project Group, which has provided expertise in renewable energy and infrastructure development since 2003. Barkley Project Group has been instrumental in empowering Indigenous communities to achieve climate action and community development. During construction, the Project created four full-time and 17 part-time jobs filled by Hesquiaht First Nation members. Four local community members are employed as permanent part-time operators for the Project. Despite challenges, including the passing of former Hesquiaht Chief Richard Lucas and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project faced and overcame numerous obstacles during its development.
Looking ahead, the Hesquiaht First Nation plans to further enhance their energy infrastructure with solar and battery integrations, aiming to eliminate diesel use entirely. This project, supported by various organizations, exemplifies the community’s commitment to sustainability.
CEBC commends the Hesquiaht First Nation’s leadership in clean energy, setting a model for other remote communities. For more information about the Ahtaapq Creek Hydro Project, please contact: Cheryl Eardley, Cheryl.Eardley@barkley.ca.
About Clean Energy Association of British Columbia
Clean Energy Association of British Columbia represents over 130 members, including leading clean energy companies, First Nations, service providers and academic institutions contributing to British Columbia’s renewable energy industry. CEBC’s mission is to support BC’s transition to low-carbon energy through the development of effective climate policy and clean energy electrification.
For further information, please contact:
Ombrielle Neria
comms@cleanenergybc.org
