PROJECT SUMMARY
UPDATE: In response to comments received during the ongoing Alberta Utility Commission (AUC) regulatory review process (i.e., AUC Proceeding 27837), as well as changes in technology since the original AUC application was submitted, SPWC is proposing several changes to the Project design and layout. |
SPWC has revised the turbine layout to address public comments about the potential interaction with aviation flight paths associated with using the Fort MacLeod (Alcock) Airstrip (CFM8). Some turbines have been removed and others relocated to maximize the use of the wind energy resource in the Project Area.
The previous turbine model used for the design basis of the Project is no longer commercially available. Although a final selected turbine model has yet to be determined, SPWC has proposed an alternative, commercially available model of wind turbine generator (i.e., Nordex N163/6.X) to be used for the basis of Project design and regulatory permitting. The Nordex N163/6.X has similar dimensions and slightly higher generation capacity.
Advancements in Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) technology have allowed SPWC to increase the storage capacity of the Project BESS with no increase in predicted cumulative sound levels. Further, this expansion in storage capacity is achieved while reducing the overall number of storage units on site. The increased storage capacity will further contribute to Alberta’s energy resiliency for the future.
Further details on the changes to the Project are provided below and depicted in the Project Details Map.
- A change in the wind turbine model (used for design basis) to the Nordex N163-6.X;
- The reduction in overall generation capacity from 204.6 MW to 196 MW;
- The removal of 3 turbines (i.e. Turbines T30 and T32 from vicinity of airstrip and T35);
- The relocation of 3 turbines from the vicinity of the airstrip (i.e. Turbines T21, T25 and T28);
- An adjustment of 9 turbine locations;
- A change in Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) storage units and inverters;
- An increased BESS capacity from 25MW (50 MWh) to 50 MW (100 MWh); and
- Associated amendments to access roads and collection line routes resulting in reduced land usage throughout the Project Area.
Summary of Proposed Project Changes
Current Design | Amended Design | Proposed Change | |
# of Turbines | 31 Turbines (SG 6.6-170) | 28 Turbines (N163 6.X-7MW) | Decrease (3 Turbines) |
Generation Capacity | 204.6 MW | 196 MW | Decrease (8.6 MW) |
Turbine Hub Height | 115 m | 116.9 m | Increase (1.9 m) |
Blade Length | 85.0 m | 81.5 m | Decrease (3.5 m) |
Maximum Turbine Height (Blade Tip) | 200 m | 198.4 m | Decrease (1.6 m) |
Current Design | Amended Design | Proposed Change | |
Approx. Number of BESS Containers (pending final design and engineering) | ~20 BESS Containers (PowerTitan 1.0) | ~24 BESS Containers (PowerTitan 2.0) | Increase (4 Containers) |
Number of Inverters | 10 Stations (Sungrow SC2500UD) | 12 Stations (Sungrow MVS5140) | Increase (2 Stations) |
Storage Capacity | 25 MW (50 MWh) | 50 MW (100 MWh) | 25 MW (50MWh) Increase |
Current Design | Amended Design | Proposed Change | |
Construction | 85.90 ha | 88.50 ha | Increase (2.6 ha) |
Operation | 40.55 ha | 22.67 ha | Decrease (6.88 ha) |
Given the extended time needed to undertake the AUC regulatory approval process, as well as delays associated with the Alberta Renewables Inquiry and Related Pause on Approvals, SPWC has re evaluated the probable timeline for construction and operation of the Project. Subject to the potential time needed to complete AUC and municipal regulatory review processes, SPWC anticipates that construction of the Project could start as early as mid-2025. The proposed timing of additional Project milestones is:
Project Construction | Mid-2025 |
Start of Commercial Operations/In-Service Date | Late 2026 |
Operation | 2026-2051 25 years with the potential for extension of the Project life through the replacement or updating of key equipment, as required – subject to regulatory approval. |
This website will be updated as new Project information becomes available.