British Columbia has officially named the Site C hydroelectric dam and generating station after former Premier John Horgan. This significant announcement was made by B.C. Energy Minister Adrian Dix on Thursday.
John Horgan’s Legacy and Site C Dam
The Site C Dam, located on the Peace River near Fort St. John, has been a focal point of controversy and debate since its inception. The project, which spanned decades, was officially completed under Horgan’s leadership, who became Premier in 2017. The dam’s naming honors his contributions and the complex decisions he faced regarding its construction.
A Tribute to Leadership
Adrian Dix highlighted Horgan’s capacity to engage in meaningful discussions, stating, “What made John a great premier was he considered all sides.” Horgan had a long history of expressing skepticism about Site C, previously referring to it as a “$9-billion gamble.” However, he ultimately determined that the province’s long-term power needs justified completing the dam.
Nááchę mege: The Reservoir’s Naming
The reservoir formed by the Site C Dam is named Nááchę mege, meaning “dreamer lake” in the local Dane-Zaa language, as selected by local First Nations. This naming reflects Horgan’s acknowledgment of the region’s Indigenous communities and their cultural significance.
Controversial Debate
The Site C project has faced significant opposition since it was first proposed in the 1970s, with numerous protests and lawsuits from Treaty 8 First Nations and landowners. Critics raised concerns about environmental impacts, including the flooding of farmland and burial sites.
- Site C was first proposed in the 1970s and later shelved in the 1980s.
- The project was revived in 2010, leading to ongoing public debate.
- In 2024, Site C began generating power.
- The project budget ballooned, costing approximately $16 billion.
Reflections on Decision-Making
In his memoir, “John Horgan: In His Own Words,” Horgan reflected on his complex views regarding the dam. He acknowledged the potential environmental impact but emphasized that the long-term energy requirements of B.C. necessitated its completion.
Former energy minister Michelle Mungall remarked on the challenges and extensive discussions behind the final decision to proceed with Site C. She noted, “There’s no doubt in my mind that this was the right decision.”
The Future of Site C
As Site C moves forward, B.C. Hydro is taking steps to enhance public access and facilitate the establishment of an Indigenous cultural center at the dam site. Discussions about the project’s advantages and disadvantages continue, indicating that the debate surrounding Site C is far from over.
Horgan’s Passing and Tribute
John Horgan passed away in 2024 at the age of 65 after battling cancer. His legacy continues to influence discussions on energy and environmental policy in British Columbia. A new post-secondary campus named in his honor opened in September 2025, further solidifying his impact on the province.
Dix expressed that Horgan would appreciate the ongoing discussions surrounding the Site C naming. “He is looking down and saying, yeah, I’m watching that debate,” said Mungall, emphasizing Horgan’s enduring relevance in the political landscape.
