Alteration of E.L Smith Solar Power Plant – Increasing Operational Performance
In this decision, the AUC approved the application from EPCOR Water Services Inc. (”EPCOR Water”) for the alteration of a power plant designated as the E.L Smith Solar Power Plant.
Background
EPCOR Water filed a letter of enquiry, pursuant to Sections 11 and 12 of the Hydro and Electric Energy Regulation (“HEEA”), for minor alterations to the approved but not yet constructed 12-megawatt (MW) power plant designated as the E.L. Smith Solar Power Plant. The application was registered on July 31, 2020, as Application 25770-A001.
Discussion
EPCOR Water proposed to add a 4-MW/8.9-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system to the E.L. Smith Solar Power Plant. This would increase the operational performance of the power plant by balancing supply and demand of electricity and serving as a backup power supply for the E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant.
An environmental evaluation assessing the incremental impacts of the battery energy storage system predicted no significant effects to the environment.
Findings
The AUC was satisfied that the proposed minor alteration would not adversely and directly affect any person and no significant adverse environmental impact would be caused. Based on the information provided by EPCOR Water in accordance with Section 12 of the Hydro and Electric Energy Regulation, and its findings, the AUC approved the application pursuant to Section 11 of the HEEA.
