Little Smoky 1 & 3 Solar Projects

The sun’s rays are collected through solar panels. The most common panels are made with aluminum frames containing small blue or black squares. These squares are the silicon solar cells that are linked together to form a circuit. The energy generated by the panels is in the form of direct current (DC). However, DC cannot be used to power homes directly. Therefore, the generated power is directed to a power inverter to convert the DC into alternating current (AC). This AC voltage is then transmitted to the substation and the electricity grid, ultimately providing power to homes or businesses.

Solar panels can be redeployed and reused without ending up in landfills. The Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) collects solar panels for free and tests their performance. Even panels that are not working optimally can be sent to municipalities or community members for reuse, such as ice fishing huts. If reuse is not possible, the panels can be recycled, and costs are included in the end-of-life remediation trust fund. According to the Canadian Renewable Energy Association, up to 90% of the mass of a solar panel – including metals and glass – can be recycled. There are currently several commercial solar recycling facilities in Alberta. Further, companies such as Sunset Renewables, and Solar cycle are partnering with commercial developers, to create a secondary market for solar panels and establish a circular economy center.

Most solar panels are made from silicon, glass, and aluminium, all of which are non-toxic. While some older or specific types of panels may contain trace amounts of heavy metals, these are sealed and pose no risk to the environment. No leaks can occur when solar panels are in operation, and there is no risk to human health. Globally, solar panels are crystalline silicon or cadmium telluride panels, not commonly referenced heavy metals like arsenic, gallium, and germanium. While trace amounts of lead may exist in solar panels, they can be carefully managed during decommissioning and recycling. Moreover, strict regulations ensure the safe disposal or recycling of solar panels at the end of their lifespan.

According to a study by Center of Life Cycle Analysis of Columbia University, although the temperature in the solar farm area can rise significantly on warm days, analysis of 18 months of detailed data showed that on most days, the solar array was completely cooled at night. Therefore it is unlikely that a heat island effect could occur. The simulations also showed that the access roads between solar fields contribute to substantial cooling. As a result, the increased size of solar farms should not significantly affect the temperature of the surrounding areas.

Solar panels are built to withstand hail to an extent. Quality solar panels are equipped with a thick layer of laminated tempered glass, providing protection against substantial impact. The robust glass cover protects internal solar panel components and is engineered to withstand significant hail impact. There are industry standards for manufacturing testing for hail resistance.

Solar farms are designed with the environment in mind. The panels are typically mounted on piles driven into the ground, ensuring minimal disturbance to the soil. The land underneath remains dormant, allowing it to rejuvenate for future growth. Moreover, many solar developers, including Northern Renewables Ltd., implement biodiversity management plans. These plans often involve planting native species around the panels, promoting local flora and fauna and enhancing the site’s ecological value. In Alberta, new solar farms must provide agrivoltaics plans, which ensure energy production strikes a balance with the preservation of agricultural land.

The cost of solar panels and other equipment is decreasing with increased efficiency and economy of scale of manufacturing. In Alberta, the market structure is an hourly settlement market, and there are times when solar energy is purchased by energy retailers and large users of energy at $0 / MWh. The cost of electricity with solar has declined considerably and is one of the lowest cost, and fastest, to market forms of new power generation in Alberta.

Northern Renewables Ltd. recognizes the importance of controlling weeds and vegetation on project lands to ensure operation of solar projects, reduce costs, and prevent growth that may impact equipment or shade solar panels. As part of its Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) application, Northern Renewables Ltd. will create a weed management plan within the environmental protection plan. Northern Renewables Ltd. will comply with the Weed Control Act to manage noxious weeds and address local nuisance weeds using best management practices, like those used by farmers. Northern Renewables Ltd. will be engaging Greenview and the local agricultural community to co-ordinate weed control plans.

The Projects will create up to 180 jobs, and approximately 116 full time jobs indirectly during construction, creating opportunities for local individuals and businesses. During operations, the Projects will provide 6 or more permanent full-time jobs during operation.