The Eskay Creek Revitalization Project represents one of the most significant mining redevelopment initiatives in British Columbia. With a focus on reopening the historic underground mine as a modern open-pit gold and silver operation, the project combines advanced technology, strong partnerships, and deep respect for environmental and community values.

Photo by Skeena Gold + Silver

This ambitious renewal not only promises economic growth but also sets a benchmark for sustainable mining practices in Canada. Central to its success are industry-leading partners such as Hitachi Energy, Rex Power Magnetics, Powell Industries, and Arbutus West Agency (AWAL), who each brought unique expertise to the table.

Project Overview: From Underground to Open-Pit

The Eskay Creek mine was once among the world’s highest-grade gold and silver producers. Today, the revitalization effort aims to transform the site into a conventional truck-and-shovel open-pit mine capable of producing high-value gold-silver concentrate.

Photo by Eskay Creek Revitalization

Key elements of the project include:

• On-site processing: Gold-silver concentrate will be produced at the mine and shipped to third-party smelters.
• Existing infrastructure advantage: The site already has a permitted Tailings Storage Facility (TSF), workforce camps, offices, and reliable all-weather access roads.
  
• Clean power sources: Electricity will be delivered through the Coast Mountain Hydroelectric Facilities — Forrest Kerr, McLymont Creek, and Volcano Creek run-of-river projects—partly owned by the Tahltan Nation, or through direct access to the provincial hydroelectric grid.

This combination of infrastructure, power, and strategic location positions Eskay Creek as a world-class revitalization project with reduced environmental impact.

The Role of Arbutus West Agency (AWAL)

Arbutus West Agency (AWAL) served as the territorial representative for Hitachi Energy, Rex Power Magnetics, and Powell Industries. Their role was pivotal in ensuring the project’s demanding power requirements were met with the highest levels of reliability and efficiency.

AWAL engaged some of the world’s most experienced power system application engineers, ensuring that the electrical infrastructure could withstand the harsh mining environment while delivering consistent performance.

Manufacturers and Partners

Hitachi Energy

Hitachi Energy played a crucial role in safeguarding and stabilizing the electrical network at Eskay Creek. Their contributions included:

• 287/69 kV dead tank circuit breakers – ensuring safety and stability during operations
• Surge arrestors – protecting valuable equipment from power surges
  
• Instrument transformers – supporting precision and monitoring
  

By supplying and commissioning these systems, Hitachi Energy ensured operational resilience for one of the most challenging industrial environments.

Powell Industries

Mining environments require rugged, customizable solutions. Powell Industries delivered exactly that by:

• Designing and supplying medium-voltage switchgear systems
  
• Building these into large, self-contained, customized electrical houses
• Engineering the systems to withstand the extreme conditions of mining operations
  

This level of adaptability guarantees that Eskay Creek’s power distribution remains stable, efficient, and safe for the long term. 

Rex Power Magnetics

While less visible, Rex Power Magnetics’ contributions are equally critical. Known for their reliable transformer solutions, they worked closely with Hitachi Energy and Powell Industries to provide an integrated power infrastructure tailored to the project’s needs.

Together, these three manufacturers, supported by AWAL’s regional expertise—created a robust power delivery ecosystem that makes Eskay Creek’s revitalization possible.

Environmental Responsibility

Mining projects today must do more than generate economic returns—they must also respect the environment and local communities. The Eskay Creek Revitalization Project demonstrates this commitment through multiple initiatives.

Photo by Eskay Creek Revitalization

Regulatory Oversight: 

• In July 2021, the Tahltan Central Government requested that the project be designated reviewable under BC’s Environmental Assessment Act.
• The project was also designated under the federal Impact Assessment Act.
• In November 2022, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change approved a substitution request, allowing the BC Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) to administer both federal and provincial processes.

Commitment to Indigenous Rights:

• Skeena Gold + Silver, the company behind Eskay Creek, is committed to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
  
• The project is being developed in collaboration with the Tahltan Nation and other local Indigenous communities, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.

Clean Energy Integration:

• By using run-of-river hydroelectric facilities partly owned by the Tahltan Nation, the project aligns with principles of low-carbon, community-driven energy development.

This layered approach highlights Eskay Creek’s vision: mining that balances profitability with sustainability.

Why the Eskay Creek Project Matters

The significance of the Eskay Creek Revitalization Project extends far beyond gold and silver production. Here’s why it stands out:

• Economic Impact: Reviving one of Canada’s most iconic mines will create jobs, boost regional infrastructure, and support BC’s mining industry.
  
• Sustainability: By leveraging hydroelectric power and adhering to stringent environmental oversight, the project minimizes its carbon footprint.
  
• Collaboration with Indigenous Communities: Direct involvement of the Tahltan Nation ensures the project advances with fairness, respect, and shared benefits.

  Photo by Eskay Creek Revitalization

Looking Ahead

The Eskay Creek Revitalization Project symbolizes a new era for Canadian mining: one where technology, sustainability, and community coexist. By combining cutting-edge power infrastructure, environmental accountability, and meaningful partnerships, the project sets a powerful example for future resource development.

As Skeena Gold + Silver advances its mission, the support of partners like Hitachi Energy, Powell Industries, Rex Power Magnetics, and Arbutus West Agency will remain critical to success. Together, they are not only powering a mine—but also powering a sustainable future for generations to come.

Key Takeaways

• Eskay Creek Revitalization Project reopens a historic mine as a sustainable open-pit gold and silver operation.
  
• AWAL played a central role by representing Hitachi Energy, Rex Power Magnetics, and Powell Industries.
  
• Hitachi Energy supplied circuit breakers, surge arrestors, and transformers.
  
• Powell Industries designed medium-voltage switchgear housed in robust electrical buildings.
  
• Environmental and Indigenous collaboration is at the heart of the project.
• The project highlights how innovation and sustainability can transform mining in Canada.