October 3, 2018 – The government of Alberta has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for large-scale solar energy provision to meet more than half of its ‘green power’ needs.

The provincial government is seeking to procure solar power equivalent to about 55 per cent of its annual electrical consumption. It plans to replace existing renewable energy contracts with solar deals to help diversify both its sourcing and the local economy, with the goal of creating new jobs in a growing industry.

“Alberta has the best solar resources in Canada and it is time to take advantage of them,” says Shannon Phillips, minister of environment and responsible for the climate change office.

Through the RFP, which was developed through consultation with electricity professionals, the government has committed to purchase Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) equivalent to 135,000 MWh of solar-generated electricity—enough to power 18,750 homes—annually for the next 20 years.

“Renewable energy is a priority for our government,” says Sandra Jansen, minister of infrastructure. “Using solar power generated in Alberta for our electricity needs will advance new investment opportunities.”

The government anticipates having the new solar project contracts in place before spring 2019.