Canada's Largest Community Off-Grid Solar Project Powers Up in British Columbia

The Ulkatcho First Nation in Anahim Lake, British Columbia, has broken ground on what is set to become Canada's largest community off-grid solar project. This significant initiative, backed by a $15.8 million investment from federal and provincial governments, aims to drastically reduce the community's reliance on diesel fuel and usher in a new era of clean energy.

Key Takeaways

• The project will reduce diesel consumption by 64% and significantly cut carbon emissions.

• It is the first of its kind in British Columbia to feature a Community Electricity Purchase Agreement with BC Hydro.

• The initiative is 100% owned by the Ulkatcho Energy Corporation, a member of the Ulkatcho Group of Companies.

A Greener Future for Ulkatcho First Nation

Currently, the Ulkatcho First Nation's power supply is entirely diesel-generated. Following extensive technical studies, solar power was identified as the most viable alternative energy solution. The Anahim Lake Solar Project, owned by the Ulkatcho Energy Corporation (UEC), will integrate solar power, battery storage, and existing diesel backup to create a reliable hybrid renewable energy system. This transition is expected to yield substantial environmental and economic benefits for the community.

Stephen James, CEO of Ulkatcho Group of Companies, expressed optimism about the project's potential, stating, "This solar project in Anahim Lake marks a new path for the Ulkatcho First Nation, creating significant lasting environmental and economic benefits." He also highlighted the value of partnerships developed with both public and private sectors.

Collaboration and Innovation

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on June 11, 2025, marked the commencement of construction by UEC and BC Hydro. Chief Nelson (Charlie) Williams of the Ulkatcho First Nation emphasized the project's positive impact, noting, "Through our Ulkatcho Group of Companies, we are giving our people a cleaner environment and preserving our lands through reducing greenhouse gas emissions on our Traditional Territory." He proudly declared the Ulkatcho First Nation as a leader in green energy for British Columbia.

Hatch, serving as the engineering consultant, played a crucial role in designing the solar infrastructure. Mark Mitchell, Hatch’s Global Lead for Distribution & Smart Grid, commented on the collaborative effort, "This project truly demonstrates what can be achieved with collaboration between remote first nations communities, public utilities, and private partners." Hatch has been involved since the early conceptual stages in 2020.

The project involves the development of essential infrastructure, including a solar control building, access roads, walkways, fire mitigation measures, security systems, and signage. BC Hydro will purchase the generated solar power under a Community Electricity Purchase Agreement, integrating it into the local microgrid via a line interconnection and battery storage system. This system will serve 14 remote areas, many of which are First Nations communities, that currently rely on isolated microgrids not connected to the main provincial grid.

Sources

• Largest community off-grid solar project in Canada breaks ground in B.C. – The Environment Journal, The Environment Journal.