Klahoose First Nation and Alterra Power Sign Agreement for Upper Toba Run-of-River Hydro Project

Alterra Power Corp. and the Klahoose First Nation are pleased to announce that they have signed a Resource Development Agreement ("RDA"), establishing the framework under which Alterra and the Klahoose will work together to advance the Upper Toba run-of-river hydroelectric project, which lies within the traditional territory of the Klahoose First Nation.

The comprehensive RDA sets out the terms under which the construction of the facilities can proceed and the project can be brought into commercial operation.

Klahoose Chief James Delorme said, "This agreement between the Klahoose First Nation and Alterra Power builds upon our Toba Montrose agreement and represents another significant milestone for our Nation. The Klahoose First Nation supports quality green energy development in our traditional territories, achieved with a partner that is respectful of our land, our culture and our people. We value the work our past leaders have done for us to get us to this place. It has helped us to make a difference building this new profound agreement."

Donald McInnes, Alterra's Executive Vice Chairman, said, "We value our relationship with the Klahoose First Nation and are very grateful for their support of run-of-river hydro projects in their traditional territory. We look forward to working together again in the Toba Valley to develop and operate these environmentally-responsible projects that will benefit the Klahoose First Nation and all British Columbians."

The Upper Toba run-of-river hydro power project is an expansion of Alterra's operations in the Toba Valley, where the 235 MW Toba Montrose run-of-river hydro facility is located. The project will comprise two new run-of-river hydro power plants, at Jimmie Creek and the Upper Toba River, with a combined capacity of up to 124 MW, subject to final design. The new facilities will utilize much of the infrastructure already in place for Toba Montrose. The project has a 40-year power purchase agreement in place with BC Hydro, has received its Environmental Assessment Certificate and has signed an interconnection agreement with BC Hydro.

Upper Toba is located on the traditional lands of the Klahoose First Nation and the project will use the existing Toba Montrose power line, which travels through the traditional territory of Alterra's partners, the Sliammon and Sechelt First Nations.

Source: Alterra Press Release, May 23, 2012