The Government of Canada’s Clean Energy Fund and BC Hydro have each provided $6.5m for the new battery unit.
The unit will store clean energy produced by BC Hydro that can be used to help meet the area’s electricity needs in the event of a power outage and reduce system load during peak demand periods.
BC Hydro executive vice-president of transmission and distribution Greg Reimer said the project will provide a clean source of reliable back-up power people living in Field.
"It will also give us an opportunity to share our knowledge with other utilities in the country who face the same challenges," Reimer said.
Kootenay-Columbia Member of Parliament David Wilks said projects like this not only support high-quality jobs but also demonstrate how renewable energy sources can be used to help protect the environment.
"Our government is supporting innovative projects across the country and positioning Canada at the forefront of clean energy technology," Wilks said.
