The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) has begun a week-long set of hearings to determine the fate of a proposed solar and battery storage project southeast of Stettler.
The application, submitted by ABO Energy Canada Ltd. — formerly ABO Wind Canada Ltd. — outlines plans for a 25-megawatt solar array and a 16-megawatt battery storage facility on approximately 190 acres along Township Road 38-4.
If approved by the AUC, the project would see about 72,000 solar panels and a battery system installed that would connect to an adjacent ATCO Energy distribution line, providing renewable electricity to roughly 10,000 homes.
Stettler County council has raised several concerns about the proposal, including the need for a dedicated emergency response plan in the event of a lithium battery fire.
During its June 11 meeting, council also questioned potential soil contamination if solar panels were damaged during a hailstorm.
The AUC hearings are being livestreamed on YouTube and can be viewed here:
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
