Hydropower Project Development and Licensing

Barkley Project Group is experienced in managing and conducting the technical studies and consultations to obtain authorizations and licenses for independent hydropower projects. These projects are being developed in response to BC Hydro’s Standing Offer Program and periodic calls for tender from BC Hydro for new electricity generation. These new sources of clean, renewable energy are being developed to fulfill the mandate of the Provincial Government Energy Plan.

Key permits and authorizations required for independent hydropower projects in British Columbia typically include:

• Provincial water license and land tenure
• Fisheries Act authorization
• Canadian Environmental Assessment Act decision
• British Columbia Environmental Assessment Act Certificate (> 50 MW)
• Electricity purchase agreement (EPA) with BC Hydro.

Barkley Project Group has provided the technical and management services to support the development of more than 30 independent hydropower projects, including helping clean energy producers to locate, scope, design and license their projects. This process includes:

• Identifying suitable hydropower generating sites based on stream flow, head, capacity and proximity to existing electrical transmission systems
• Conducting technical and feasibility studies to verify potential hydropower generation capacity and identify significant cultural and environmental values, constraints and other land and water uses
• Liaison and consultation with regulatory agencies, First Nations and the public
• Coordinating and conducting technical studies of hydrology, archaeology, fish and wildlife and environmental impact assessment
• Developing project plans for water use and locations of intakes, powerhouses, roads, penstocks, tailraces and transmission lines
• Working with regulatory agencies to obtain permits, licenses and authorizations
• Tendering for project equipment and construction
• Supervision and monitoring of project construction and operations.
  

Specializing in hydropower projects, including Standing Offer Program applications, Barkley Project Group is unique in project management consulting in the hydropower / renewable clean energy sector. Our firm has managed all aspects of project development, construction and operations, and this experience enhances the value we provide to our clients.

Barkley Project Group is the contract Operations Manager for the 5.5 MW Canoe Creek Hydro project on Vancouver Island.