The Alberta government announced February 7 that, with a $3.3-million grant from Alberta’s Climate Leadership Plan and in partnership with ATCO, Three Nations Energy LP (3NE) will own and operate what they expect will be the largest off-grid solar-and-storage project in Canada and supply Fort Chipewyan with an alternative to diesel power. Three Nations Energy LP was founded by the Athabasca Chipewyan and Mikisew Cree First Nations, as well as Métis Local 12. Fort Chipewyan is not connected to Alberta’s electricity grid and relies on burning diesel fuel for heat and power.
The system will consist of about 7,500 panels that, once completed, will replace the equivalent of 800,000 litres of diesel fuel annually for Fort Chipewyan – supplying roughly 25 per cent of the community’s energy use. It is anticipated that Fort Chipewyan will start generating solar energy in fall 2020. The project will also reduce noise pollution in the area and make the winter roads safer due to reduced tanker truck traffic.
Chief Allan Adam, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. Photo: Turtle Lodge
“While our regional economy depends on the oil industry, we feel the effects of climate change in our community and see the growing impacts on our delta lands. Our members want us to be part of the solution and we appreciate Alberta working with us to take a big step forward to cut pollution and protect the environment,” said Chief Allan Adam, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation.
The project will be completed in a phased approach. ATCO was to install a Phase 1 component of 400 kW (about 1,500 panels) this winter that ATCO will own, reducing diesel consumption by 150,000 litres per year. 3NE, supported by funding from the Government of Alberta, will own Phase 2, consisting of another 2,200 kW from 6,000 panels, which will reduce diesel consumption by an additional 650,000 litres per year. The solar farm will have a generation capacity of 2.6 MW and an energy production of 3,200 MWh/year once Phase 2 is complete.
The reduction in tanker trucks will be roughly 25 large tanker truck trips each way, per year. Total project cost for the solar farm is $7.8 million, including the $3.3-million commitment from the Government of Alberta.
ATCO is working closely with 3NE, supplying design, construction and operation services as well as ensuring local employment benefits. ATCO will also operate a complementary battery storage system that can store 1.5 MWh of power, extending the ability of the solar farm to replace diesel.
The Pembina Institute notes that there are seven isolated communities in northern Alberta. Through other Government of Alberta initiatives, there are plans for several to be connected to the provincial grid while others are also being equipped with solar PV and battery systems.