The County of Stettler is ready to back a major new transmission project in the region, but is looking for firm guarantees from ATCO Electric first.
The county council met on March 10 to discuss the Red Willow Transmission Project, which will connect a massive new solar farm to the Alberta power grid.
The solar project site is located about 19 km northeast of Stettler, & will feature 484,000 solar panels & a large battery storage system.
The county authorized administration to issue a conditional “no objection” letter on behalf of the council.
Key Demands for ATCO
As the new 240-kilovolt (kV) lines will cross Range Road 18-2, the council wants four specific promises:
Height Clearance: Overhead lines must be no lower than existing wires to ensure large farm equipment can still pass safely.
Crossing Agreements: ATCO must sign formal legal agreements before any work begins on county roads.
Road Access: Any new approaches to the road must follow county rules for installation & removal.
Emergency Routes: ATCO must allow an access road under the lines for emergency crews to reach the battery storage site.
Looking Ahead
The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) has already approved the solar farm itself.
In late January, the AUC gave the green light to Red Willow Solar Inc. to proceed with the 386-hectare development.
The county cannot legally block the project, however the AUC requires ATCO to consult with local officials.
ATCO plans to file its formal application this July. If the AUC approves the plan, construction will start in February 2028.
The project includes 104 metres of new high-voltage line & will also require 2.5 km of underground fibre optic cable.
ATCO Electric has indicated that residents in the immediate vicinity of the proposed lines will be contacted directly for further input.
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
