"Clean Power" projects get BC Hydro contracts

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - Nineteen alternative-energy projects now have deals for BC Hydro to buy their electricity. The government-owned utility has chosen 14 run-of-river projects that produce energy without dams; and five wind-power projects, the latter in the windy northeastern part of the province.

They're the first to get contracts under the government's call for "clean power" from the private-sector. Hydro says they will generate enough energy to supply more than 200,000 homes. The government says they represent $3 billion in capital investment.

The crown corporation expects to choose more projects from 28 remaining applicants later this month.