Salay Prayzaan

In 2017, the MNA unveiled its inaugural Climate Change Action Plan to “fully support and direct the MNA in […] designing and undertaking climate change initiatives and programs, including actions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing Métis involvement and awareness of climate change while creating capacity and economic opportunities for Métis citizens.”

It was within this framework that the foundations of Salay Prayzaan emerged. Together, the Town of Smoky Lake, Smoky Lake County and the MNA worked to develop this 4.86-megawatt solar project, which stands as the most northerly grid-connected solar generation initiative of substantial scale in Alberta.

ATCO, serving as the prime contractor for the construction, enlisted BBA to perform environmental assessments, engineering studies, detailed design of the solar farm (excluding the electrical design) and commissioning of the medium-voltage (MV) system. Key aspects of the mandate included:

• Civil design: General layout and site plans, earthworks and drainage, roads and paving
• Structural design: Foundations for inverters, transformers and the E-house
• Power system studies: Load flow, short circuit and arc flash, protection coordination and grounding
• Commissioning of the MV system: Transformers, cables, relays and switchgear
• Environmental assessments: Pre-construction assessments, field assessments, monitoring and documentation

The energy generated by the solar modules is fed back into the local distribution grid, where it flows to nearby communities, including Métis Crossing and Smoky Lake County. The successful implementation of this technology is significant for these communities, not only in terms of financial benefits, but also in reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.