The County of Stettler will participate in hearings being held later this spring on a proposed solar project in our area.
ABO Energy Canada Ltd. (Formerly ABO Wind Canada Ltd.) has filed an application to build a 25 MW (Megawatt) solar array with a 16 MW battery storage facility, just south of Stettler.
The Alberta Utilities Commission will be holding hearings on the solar project from June 16-20, and has final say in its approval.
The proposal would see about 72,000 solar panels installed across roughly 190 acres on privately-owned land along Township Road 38-4 southeast of Stettler. It would then connect to an adjacent distribution line, in consultation with ATCO Electric to provide roughly 10,000 homes across the province with renewable electricity.
County staff recommended the council take part in these hearings during their Apr 23 meeting, in order to address some concerns about the solar project.
The need for a dedicated emergency plan for the fire department if a lithium battery fire started at the solar storage facility was discussed. The setback distance from the roadways and angle of the panels to try and reduce sunlight glare was also highlighted as topics to be brought up at the AUC hearings in June.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
