Sawridge First Nation Achieves Commercial Operations at Buffalo Atlee Wind Farms in Alberta

July 11, 2024
The four wind farms will add 61 MW of emissions-free electricity capacity to the Alberta grid, which is expected to provide enough power for approximately 26,000 homes in the region annually
Capstone Infrastructure Corporation, a developer, owner, and operator of renewable energy projects across North America, and Sawridge First Nation have announced the commissioning of four wind farms, the Buffalo Atlee 1, 2, 3, and 4 in Alberta.
 
Together, the four wind farms will add 61 MW of emissions-free electricity capacity to the Alberta grid, which is expected to provide enough power for approximately 26,000 homes in the region annually. In addition, the four facilities are expected to avoid fossil fuel carbon dioxide emissions of approximately 93,000 metric tons annually at the start of commercial operation.
 
Through these projects, Capstone will establish a long-term equity partnership with the Sawridge First Nation. The Buffalo Atlee Wind Farms are also expected to provide millions of dollars in long-term revenue to the local municipality. 
 
Gibson Energy will purchase the electricity produced at the Buffalo Atlee 2 and 4 farms, according to the terms of the 15-year renewable power purchase agreement (PPA) signed by Capstone, Sawridge, and Gibson in 2023. The agreement demonstrates Gibson’s aim to achieve low-carbon transition and emission reduction targets and become net zero by 2050.
 
“The Government of Canada is delivering affordable and reliable power to Albertans while advancing boldly toward a sustainable and prosperous future. Clean electricity projects like Buffalo Atlee’s wind farms are not only a critical part of Canada’s energy future; they also represent economic opportunities for local communities," said the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources Canada
 
Natural Resources Canada has provided federal support for the project through the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program.

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