Facilities – Solar Plant
In this decision, the AUC approved an application from Three Nations Energy GP Inc. (“Three Nations”) for the alteration of a power plant designated as the Fort Chipewyan Solar Generation Facility (Phase 2).
Discussion
The Fort Chipewyan Solar Generation Facility (Phase 2) was completed and energized in January 2021. Three Nations recently determined that there was enough room in the project budget to purchase and install an additional 384 solar panels, which would add approximately 154 kilowatts of additional generation capability to the existing 2.27-megawatt power plant.
ATCO Infrastructure Services with the support of ATCO Electric Ltd. planned to start construction in March 2021 and expected an in-service date of August 31, 2021, for the alteration.
AUC Findings
The AUC reviewed the application and determined that the technical, siting, environmental, and noise aspects of the power plant alteration were met. Three Nations’ participant involvement program was conducted, and there were no outstanding public or industry objections or concerns.
Based on the minor nature of the proposed alteration, it was the AUC’s understanding that the proposed changes do not constitute “changes that may make the community generating unit cease to be a community generating unit” within the meaning of Section 10(1) of the Small Scale Generation Regulation. It noted that nothing in this decision should be construed as approving any changes to the terms under which the project was qualified as a community generating unit. Accordingly, the AUC imposed the following condition of approval:
Within 30 days of the issuance of this approval, Three Nations shall confirm with the AUC whether the alteration will result in changes to ATCO’s assessment of whether the power plant qualifies as a small-scale generating unit; the community benefits agreement; the status of the community group named in the community benefits agreement; the benefits received by the community group under the community benefits agreement; or the metering costs for the project.
Decision
Pursuant to sections 11 and 19 of the Hydro and Electric Energy Act, the AUC approved the application and granted Three Nations approval to alter and operate the Fort Chipewyan Solar Generation Facility (Phase 2).
