Virtual PPA signed for 38.5 MW Solar PV Project in Canada

Lafarge Canada Inc. and ATCO Ltd. announced that they have entered into a 12.5-year virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) in Alberta, Canada.

In this arrangement, Lafarge's Exshaw cement plant will utilize 100 per cent of the solar energy generated by the 38.5-MW Empress Solar project, fulfilling 34 % of the plant's energy needs until 2036.

The Empress Solar initiative is anticipated to produce sufficient renewable energy, offsetting around 43,000 tonnes of carbon annually. The project will use over 89,000 solar panels to generate electricity and is expected to generate enough electricity to power over 11,000 homes. Upon completion, this facility will significantly contribute to ATCO's goal of owning, developing, or overseeing more than 1,000 MW of renewable energy, aligning with their 2030 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives. The solar facility is scheduled to commence commercial operations in October 2023.