Montana First Nation Solar

The Project

In 2020, ATCO engaged with the Montana First Nation in Maskwacis, Alberta, on a project to build a 5 megawatt (MW) community photovoltaic (PV) solar facility, interconnected with the Alberta Electric System ? the first of its kind to be built on reserve status land.

ATCO was the key proponent for the engineering design, procurement and construction (EPC) of all of the high voltage (HV) aspects of the facility including the interconnection with the local distribution facility owner, Fortis. The HV interconnection also includes Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and telecom connections.

Chief Leonard Standingontheroad shared, ?The Montana community is very proud of having this solar project in their land. It brings hope for a better future?. His reflections went on to explain how, even at this early stage, the whole community is hoping this project will bring financial stability to the Montana First Nation. Beyond financial benefits, the solar project has increased understanding and education of renewable energy within the community, compelling community members to take action to learn more. 

Chief Leonard pointed out that many younger members of his community felt inspired by this project and are making empowering life-changing decisions to pursue studies in the field of renewables as a result of their exposure to the solar project. He added that he would like to continue to identify other similar opportunities through a mutually beneficial Relationship Agreement with ATCO.