Edmonton-based EPCOR Utilities has announced that the kīsikāw pīsim solar farm is now in operation, generating enough renewable energy to power half of the energy requirements of the E. L. Smith Water Treatment Plant, which supplies 65% of the water needed by Edmonton in Alberta and the surrounding communities.
The solar farm comprises 30,350 solar panels and a Battery Energy Storage System with over 1,000 batteries in two separate sea-can style containers. The generated energy at the farm is enough to reduce GHG emissions by 14,000 tons annually.
“The kīsikāw pīsim solar farm is an example of the work we’re doing to support a greener future today,” said Stuart Lee, EPCOR President & CEO. “This project will make a significant and lasting impact in environmental sustainability by allowing us to produce clean water using clean energy. It will make the water treatment plant more self-sufficient and climate resilient; and EPCOR would like to thank all our partners who brought their leadership and vision to help make it a reality.”
Additionally, EPCOR is transferring 31.5 acres of land to Edmonton city to improve the recreational trail network. The firm has enlarged a wildlife corridor along the river by 25%, adding over 3 acres of grassy meadow outside the fence. The utility is also restoring over 7 acres of the site into tree and shrub habitat. It is re-introducing native grasses to improve biodiversity.
