Kelowna

First envisioned 15 years ago and under active planning and, ultimately, construction for the last six years, the Lake Country Hydroelectric Generating Station was officially inaugurated by politicians and dignitaries Thursday.

"The District of Lake Country is pleased to be able to produce emission-free renewable energy from existing waterworks currently supplying water to the community," says Mayor James Baker. "In this way we can help to reduce our collective carbon footprint while minimizing our environmental impact and generating revenue for the district."

Using existing infrastructure associated with Lake Country's water supply system, the 1.1-megawatt micro-hydro project on the district's Eldorado reservoir fed by Upper Vernon Creek on the municipality's eastern heights will generate enough electricity to supply 400 homes annually.

The federal government, which was represented at the opening by Kelowna-Lake Country MP Ron Cannan, provided $3.33 million in various direct and indirect grants and low-interest loans for the project.

"Our government . . . understands the importance of supporting infrastructure projects that create jobs, stimulate the economy and improve our environment," Cannan says.

Lake Country district is selling the power to B.C. Hydro under a long-term contract. Estimated annual output from the plant is 3,900 megawatt hours.