The Alberta Utilities Commission has granted approval for a new solar & battery storage facility in the County of Stettler, while a second, significantly larger project looms on the horizon.
During the Dec. 10 meeting, the county council reviewed the AUC’s Oct. 27 decision to greenlight the Stettler Solar and Storage Project.
The ruling allows Stettler Solar Inc. to proceed with their application to construct & operate a 25-megawatt solar power plant & a 9.6-MW energy storage facility.
County Concerns & Conditions
The County of Stettler did not support the initial application, citing concerns over land use & long-term impacts.
However, the provincial regulator moved forward with the approval, attaching several safety & environmental conditions intended to address local concerns.
To mitigate fire risks, the AUC is requiring the installation of thermal imaging cameras for continuous monitoring of the battery storage system.
Stettler Solar Inc. is also required to submit a report after becoming operational detailing any complaints regarding glare, as well as mitigation measures.
Despite concerns from some neighbors, the AUC also ruled that the project poses a “low risk” to wildlife & habitat, citing a referral report from Alberta Environment and Protected Areas.
Staff informed the council that the Stettler Solar project intends to use panels that move to follow the sun’s path from east to west.
What’s Next?
Stettler Solar Inc. has stated they will continue to consult with nearby landowners.
For residents, the focus now shifts to the County’s development permit stage.
If permits are approved, construction on the site is anticipated to begin in the first quarter of 2027.
Second Solar Project At Red Willow Being Considered
The Dec. 10 council meeting also highlighted a second application that would dwarf the current project in scale.
Westbridge Renewable Energy Corporation under the entity Red Willow Solar Inc. is seeking AUC approval for a 225-MW solar power plant & a 100-MW lithium-ion battery storage system.
If approved, the project about 18 kms northeast of Stettler, would cover about 386 hectares of agricultural land & include the construction of a new substation.
The commission is expected to release a decision on the Red Willow application early in the new year.
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
