Canadian Solar Inc. today announced that it has won three solar power contracts with Alberta's Ministry of Infrastructure, for a total of 94MW of solar power system in southeast Alberta, with an average contracted PPA price of 48.05 Canadian dollars per MWh. When in operation, these solar plants will provide 55 percent of the electricity needs for Alberta provincial government.
"We see great potential in the Alberta solar market, and we're pleased to supply subsidy-free solar power to meet Alberta's clean energy needs. We hope these 94MW solar project contracts serve as a catalyst for solar industry growth in Canada, specifically in Alberta," said Shawn Qu, chairman and chief executive officer of Canadian Solar. "We are delighted to partner with Conklin Métis Local 193, the indigenous community, who owns a 50-percent equity stake in the Hays, Jenner and Tilley solar projects."
"We are extremely excited about our partnership with Canadian Solar, a global leader in solar energy. As a Métis community, we highly value the opportunity to invest in renewable energy projects within Canada," said Shirley Tremblay, president of the Conklin Métis Local 193. "This partnership will help us diversify our investment portfolio, and its financial benefits will support key social and economic initiatives within our community. We applaud the Government of Alberta and Canadian Solar for their progressive mentality and look forward to a long-lasting, prosperous relationship."
The three projects in the contracts are the Jenner, Tilley, and Hays solar projects. Once completed in early 2021, these solar plants are expected to generate enough power for more than 20,000 homes. During the construction of the three solar projects, an estimated 270 jobs will be created in Alberta.
