Investments
We invest to generate a predictable, sustainable and appreciating income stream. We then use this money to deliver grants and programs in the Columbia Basin region, invest in local businesses and real estate and fund our corporate operating expenses.
In 1995, the Province of British Columbia endowed the Trust with $321 million: $276 million to invest in regional hydropower facilities and $45 million to invest otherwise. By carefully investing this money, we have increased the book value of our assets to $2.2 billion, generating an annual return of about $90 million. These dollars are re-invested in local communities, supporting the efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin.
What We Invest In
Hydropower Facilities
The Trust, in partnership with Columbia Power Corporation, co-owns four hydropower facilities that deliver renewable energy to British Columbia. This 50/50 ownership represents a long-term investment in sustainable energy generation and regional economic stability, ensuring that half of the revenues from these assets are reinvested directly back into Basin communities. Through this partnership, the Trust supports clean energy goals while enhancing local benefits and contributing to a resilient, sustainable future for the region.
 | Brilliant Dam Located approximately eight kilometres from Castlegar on the Kootenay River, the Brilliant Dam was bought from Teck (formerly Cominco) for $130 million and invested $100 million in improvements to extend its life and increase its capacity. It generates enough power to supply 100,000 homes. |
 | Arrow Lakes Generating Station Located 400 metres downstream from existing Hugh Keenleyside Dam on Arrow Lakes Reservoir near Castlegar, this $300-million project makes use of water that would otherwise be spilled. It generates enough power to supply 80,000 homes. |
 | Brilliant Expansion Located on the east bank of the Kootenay River downstream from Brilliant Dam, this $245-million project makes use of water that would otherwise be spilled. It generates enough power to supply 55,000 homes. |
 | Waneta Expansion Located immediately downstream of Waneta Dam on Pend d’Oreille River near Trail, this $900-million expansion was built in partnership with Fortis Inc. We purchased Fortis’ interest in the project in 2019. It generates enough power to supply 65,000 homes. |
Private Placements
We invest in Basin businesses, always keeping in mind the principles of a prudent investor and the balance between risk and returns.
Commercial Loans and Investments
We invest directly in Basin-based businesses, including privately held corporations, non-profit organizations and social enterprises owned as non-profits.
Real Estate Investments
In addition to investing in commercial properties, we have partnered with local investors to own nine seniors living communities throughout the Basin. Operated by Golden Life Management, these facilities offer more than 955 living suites and a range of support services.
Market Securities
We also invest in market securities. Our portfolio is professionally managed and includes short-term deposits, equities and bonds.
How We Manage Our Investments
Our Statement of Investment Policies and Procedures governs how we manage our investments. It includes seven beliefs:
- We believe that future generations should benefit from the same level of support as current ones. That’s why we invest and spend in a way that considers the potential effects of inflation.
- Our priority is to invest in the Basin. This is a small region, however, so we also invest some of our money in market securities.
- We choose investments that adhere to high ethical and environmental standards and display strong corporate governance. These types of investments also perform well and are profitable.
- We are a prudent investor and make sure that the potential returns we receive reflect the amount of risk we assume.
- We recognize that managing risk is just as important as generating returns.
- Though we invest much of our money in hydropower facilities, we try to invest in a variety of opportunities.
- We value partnerships and, when possible, invest in co-operation with other organizations.
