A Toronto-based renewable energy company wants to build a wind farm on the North Island which could significantly increase the entire Island’s power capacity.
The Capstone Infrastructure Corporation recently provided the Strathcona Regional District with details about its Brewster Wind Project. The company operates power facilities across Canada, including a 16 megawatt hydro power station in Sechelt.
In response to BC Hydro’s recent Call for Power from the private sector, Capstone proposes to build 30 wind turbines 40 kilometres northeast of Campbell River. The project would have a capacity of up to 200 megawatts and operate for at least 30 years, according to the company. BC Hydro’s Island-based facilities currently have a total capacity of 471 megawatts.
The regional district recommended the company contact caving and paleontology experts as part of their preliminary research, as the region is known for unique cave formations.
If BC Hydro approves the project, Capstone will begin engaging with local communities in 2025 and apply for an environmental assessment. If there are no issues, an environmental assessment certificate could be issued in 2028, with the farm to start producing power shortly afterwards.
