Major milestone at Waneta Dam Expansion reached

One of the largest projects ever to be undertaken in the Kootenays is continuing to make progress. Work is steady and many milestones are being reached each week. In fact, the Waneta Expansion Project reached another milestone with the installation of the first 68-ton stay ring—the heart of the spiral case. Once operational, it will ensure the even flow of water around the runner (water wheel) and smooth rotation of the generator before returning the water through the draft tubes back into the Pend d’Oreille River.

This $900 million project near the existing Waneta Dam has an independent contractor monitoring the social and economic impacts in the local area. The contractor works with the Community Impact Management Committee to ensure the quarterly and annual public reports are available and relevant to communities.

“The owners and Community Impact Management Committee members are pleased the project continues to provide positive impacts to our local communities,” said Audrey Repin, spokesperson for the Waneta Expansion Project. “The report shows significant employment and economic benefits as a result of our commitment to local hiring and regional spending.”

Planning is underway for a public community day celebration which will be held at the construction site this year.

The Waneta Expansion Project is a partnership between Fortis Inc., Columbia Power Corporation, and Columbia Basin Trust. For more information please visit the website.