The Canadian government today announced US$1.4M in federal funding to assist the Hupacasath and Ucluelet First Nations and their partners construct and run a 6.5MW run-of-the-river hydro plant at China Creek.

The announcement was made on-site during a ceremony for the facility’s powerhouse generator by the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport), on behalf of the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians.

The Hupacasath First Nation and its joint venture partners, which include the Ucluelet First Nation, the City of Port Alberni and Synex Energy, have formed the Upnit Power Corporation. Upnit has a 20-year contract to supply power to BC Hydro.

Upnit Power Corporation president Chief Councillor Judith Sayers said that the China Creek project would help Canada meet its Kyoto commitments, along with being part of progressive community development.