The Province of British Columbia and BC Hydro have officially renamed the Site C project as the John Horgan Dam and Generating Station, recognising former premier John Horgan’s role in advancing the hydroelectric development to completion.
“We’re proud to name the Site C dam and generating station in honour of former premier John Horgan,” said Premier David Eby. “John’s leadership and his decision to complete Site C through tough challenges helped secure B.C.’s clean-energy future.”
The announcement marks the transition of the project from construction into full commercial operation. Construction on the project began in 2015, and all six generating units entered service in August 2025.
“Former premier John Horgan approached Site C with a strong sense of responsibility for British Columbia’s long-term energy needs, and with a real commitment to listening and working with Treaty 8 First Nations and affected communities,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “As electricity demand continues to grow, his decision to move forward with Site C has proven critical to securing reliable, clean power for the future.”
BC Hydro said the 1,100MW facility will increase the utility’s electricity supply by around 8%. The generating station is expected to operate for more than 100 years.
The project reservoir has also been formally named Nááchę mege (Dreamer Lake), following a naming process undertaken with Treaty 8 First Nations. The name was proposed by Doig River First Nation and Blueberry River First Nations in the Dane-zaa language.
BC Hydro said the naming process began in 2023 and involved workshops and engagement with local First Nations communities.
“In our culture, Dreamers hold a place of the highest respect and play a vital role as cultural leaders and knowledge holders,” said Chief Sherry Dominic of Blueberry River First Nations. “The name Nááchę mege reflects our history and our enduring connection to this land.”
“Former premier John Horgan played a key role in moving Site C forward and ensuring B.C. has the clean, reliable power we need today and into the future,” said Charlotte Mitha, president and CEO of BC Hydro. “We’re also grateful for the guidance shared by Treaty 8 First Nations through our naming engagement, which began in 2023.”
