Barton Malow Canada constructed the Saddlebrook Solar Project in a joint venture partnership with SkyFire Energy Inc. This fixed-tilt solar system generates enough electricity to power roughly 20,000 homes and sits on nearly 330 acres of repurposed industrial-zoned land, generating 81 MWAC/101 MWDC of power.
Interconnection and Infrastructure
The project interconnects to the Alberta electricity transmission grid at 138 kV with a new substation, which was also constructed by the Barton Malow Canada team. This substation is designed for future augmentation with a utility-scale battery storage facility, which will enhance the project’s ability to store and manage energy efficiently.
Environmental and Land Use Impact
Reclaiming industrial land for renewable energy projects like Saddlebrook not only revitalizes underutilized areas but minimizes the environmental impact of new developments. By transforming previously industrial-zoned land into a productive solar farm, the project contributes to sustainable land use and reduces the need to disturb untouched natural habitats. It also aligns with Alberta’s ‘agriculture first’ approach to protect prime agricultural land from development unless the project can demonstrate the ability for both crops and/or livestock to co-exist with the renewable generation project.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction
The Saddlebrook Solar Project is expected to directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 73,600 tons of carbon dioxide per year, which is equivalent to taking nearly 16,000 cars off the road. It represents a significant step forward in the transition to renewable energy and demonstrates the potential for solar power to provide a reliable and sustainable energy source while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This project highlights the importance of innovative solutions and sustainable land use in achieving a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
