CASE STUDY
Advancing Clean Energy the Right Way: Responsible Development for Alberta’s Future
In 2021, Alberta’s regulatory environment gained new momentum for renewable development, driven by a growing focus on sustainability and increasingly supportive policies. As a result, the Jurassic Solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project near Iddesleigh was initiated—an outcome of this evolving landscape and a testament to our client, a major energy developer in the region. They demonstrated their commitment to advancing clean energy while preserving the surrounding ecological environment. Covering a significant area, the project aims to harness 220 megawatts (MWac) of solar power, complemented by an 80 MW/160 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery system. This project’s success would not only provide clean energy but also set a positive precedent for future developments in the region.
For our client, bringing this new vision for renewable energy to life meant navigating regulatory challenges, evolving compliance requirements, and carefully considering environmental impacts. Addressing these complexities was essential to unlocking opportunities for investment, innovation, and community progress. By collaborating closely with the client, we worked to strike the right balance between environmental stewardship and sustainable progress.
Navigating Regulatory Waters with Expert Guidance
From the project’s inception, Montrose played a vital role in site selection and permitting, ensuring that every step adhered to Alberta’s Wildlife Directive for Solar Energy Projects. This involved extensive baseline surveys, which examined local wildlife, vegetation, and wetland conditions, encompassing sensitive species such as snakes, burrowing owls, and raptors. Our team’s careful preparation included drafting the Renewable Energy Project Submission for the Environment and Protected Areas (EPA) and compiling key environmental components for the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) application, such as the Environmental Evaluation and the Environmental Protection Plan.
We also conducted pre-development site assessments that aligned with the Conservation and Reclamation Directive, maintaining a commitment to safeguarding the local ecosystem. During the construction phase of the BESS, we stepped in as environmental inspectors, actively monitoring site activities to adhere to our stringent environmental commitments. From soil handling protocols to weed management strategies, our focus was on ensuring that the project minimized its ecological footprint while supporting sustainable growth.
A Model of Resilience and Success
Despite the dynamic regulatory landscape, Montrose’s early engagement set the stage for the project’s streamlined advancement. By understanding potential environmental impacts from the outset, our team was able to gather critical data and implement effective mitigation measures. This proactive strategy resulted in a timely review process by both the EPA and AUC, with minimal supplemental information requests. As the project continues to unfold, Montrose remains a reliable partner, guiding the client through ongoing planning and construction while upholding regulatory and stakeholder expectations. The collaboration advances both renewable energy in Alberta and sets a framework for future projects in the region.
Creating a Brighter Future with Sustainable Energy Solutions
The Jurassic Solar and BESS project exemplifies the potential of innovative and environmentally conscious energy solutions. By achieving a streamlined regulatory review and implementing comprehensive environmental strategies, measurable results are already evident. This project is not just about generating renewable energy; it’s about creating lasting benefits for the community and the environment. Together, with the right partnerships and commitment to stewardship, we can drive meaningful change in our energy landscape.
