Ulkatcho First Nation Ignites Canada's Largest Off-Grid Solar Project

Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Canada's Largest Off-Grid Solar Project

A significant milestone in renewable energy has been reached in British Columbia's Chilcotin region with the groundbreaking ceremony for Canada's largest off-grid community solar project. Located near Anahim Lake, the Anahim Lake Solar Project, spearheaded by the Ulkatcho First Nation, promises to dramatically reduce diesel consumption and carbon emissions.

Key Takeaways

• Largest Off-Grid Solar Project: This initiative is set to become Canada's biggest off-grid solar installation.

• Reduced Diesel Dependency: The project is expected to cut diesel use by 64%, equating to approximately 1.1 million liters annually.

• Indigenous Leadership: The project is 100% owned by the Ulkatcho Energy Corporation, a member of the Ulkatcho Group of Companies, highlighting Indigenous leadership in clean energy.

• Environmental and Economic Benefits: It aims to provide significant lasting environmental and economic advantages for the Ulkatcho First Nation and the surrounding region.

• Government and Utility Support: The project has received substantial funding and support from federal and provincial governments, as well as BC Hydro.

A New Era for Clean Energy in the Chilcotin

The Anahim Lake Solar Project, owned entirely by the Ulkatcho Energy Corporation (UEC), is poised to transform the energy landscape for the Ulkatcho First Nation. Construction has officially begun on the project, which is anticipated to be completed by October 2025. This ambitious undertaking will see the transformation of an old sawmill site into a state-of-the-art solar plant, complete with new access roads, a control and monitoring facility, and enhanced security measures.

Reducing Emissions and Fostering Reconciliation

Chief Charlie Williams of the Ulkatcho First Nation expressed pride in the project, stating, "We are giving our people a cleaner environment and preserving our lands through reducing greenhouse gas emissions on our Traditional Territory." This sentiment was echoed by Canada's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson, who called it "bold, community-led action" and a major step forward in reducing emissions, strengthening local economies, and advancing economic reconciliation in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

Innovative Partnership with BC Hydro

A groundbreaking aspect of this project is the Community Electricity Purchase Agreement (CEPA) signed between UEC and BC Hydro in April 2024. This agreement marks BC Hydro's first of its kind in the province, enabling the utility to purchase solar energy generated by the Anahim Lake Solar Farm for the next 20 years. To facilitate this integration, BC Hydro is upgrading its Anahim Lake Station with a Battery Energy Storage System and a Microgrid Control System, transitioning operations to a digital platform for efficient storage and distribution of solar power.

Funding and Future Outlook

The Anahim Lake Solar Project has garnered significant financial backing, with a combined investment of approximately $15.8 million from federal and provincial governments. Additional funding of $4.9 million was also announced by the Government of Canada. This collaborative effort, involving Ulkatcho First Nation, UEC, BC Hydro, and engineering consultants like Hatch, sets a new standard for renewable energy solutions in remote communities across Canada.

Sources

• Canada’s biggest off-grid solar project coming to B.C.’s Chilcotin region, The Interior News.

• Landmark solar project sets new standard for renewable energy in remote communities – ReNew Canada, ReNew Canada.

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