PROJECT INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS
Project Infrastructure
SOLAR PV MODULES
Bifacial PV modules have been proposed for installation at the Project. A bifacial module is a double-sided module that transforms sunlight into electrical energy on both its top and bottom sides. They are different from mono-facial modules which only use one side for solar energy production. Bifacial modules are capable of producing more power per module and typically have higher efficiency than mono-facial modules, resulting in less land usage for the same or greater power output. Local weather conditions in Alberta are well suited to bifacial technology as there is substantial snow cover on the ground, which will boost production during the winter months.
BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS)
Each phase of the Project will contain a BESS located adjacent to the substations/laydown areas. The collocated battery storage configuration will store energy and enable increased integration of renewables with the electric grid.
GROUND MOUNTING SYSTEMS
The Proponent intends to install the PV modules on single-axis tracker systems which follow the path of the sun to produce additional electricity.
INVERTER/TRANSFORMER STATIONS
Inverters are electrical devices that change direct current (dc) to alternating current (ac). Transformers are electrical equipment that increase or decrease the voltage of electricity. The Project will use inverter/transformer stations to change the dc electricity from the solar PV modules to ac electricity and increase the voltage.
INTERCONNECTION
The Proponent proposes connecting the Project to the AIES through an existing 240 kV transmission line located south of the Project. The Proponent will construct the interconnection facilities to connect the Luna Solar+ Project to the grid, subject to a separate regulatory process with the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO).
OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE
The inverter/transformer stations in the Project will be connected through 34.5-kilovolt (kV) underground collector lines that connect to the Project substations. In order to transport materials during the construction stage and to access the Project equipment for regular maintenance during operations, the Project will require the construction of new access paths, and where possible, the upgrade of existing roads in the area to minimize disturbance.
BESS Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is a Battery Energy Storage System?
Answer: A BESS stores energy and discharges it at times when it is most needed. Stored energy enables a more reliable grid and a greater supply of renewable energy to the grid.
Question: What type of batteries are used?
Answer: The proposed Luna Solar+ BESS consists of lithium-ion batteries, which are the same batteries used to charge smartphones and electric cars. This battery technology has been proven to be stable and reliable.
Question: What safety measures are in place for the batteries?
Answer: The proposed Luna Solar+ BESS will be self-contained units placed on concrete pads. Each battery contains internal temperature control, cooling systems, and electrical safety systems which enable it to automatically shut down if is not performing as expected. A BESS-specific emergency response plan will be further outlined in the site-specific emergency response plan.
Question: What will it look like?
Answer: Each unit is approximately 9 ft 2 in tall. For comparison, a regulation basketball hoop stands 10 feet tall. The BESS for Phase I will be in the SE corner of the Project area, and the BESS for Phase II will be in the SW corner. Each BESS will be contained by a perimeter fence, separating it from the solar array and substation.
Question: What happens to the batteries after operation ends?
Answer: All equipment will be either recycled, salvaged, or returned to its manufacturer for proper disposal, and the Project lands will be returned to its former equivalent land use.
Project Benefits
The Project will have many community benefits, including the following:
LOCAL
EMPLOYMENT
The Project will create up to 1,000 full-time jobs during construction, creating opportunities for local individuals and businesses. During operations, the Project will provide 4-10 permanent full-time jobs.
LOCAL ECONOMIC
BOOST
Local businesses will experience increased activity due to the spin-off opportunities created by the Project during development, construction, and operations.
PROPERTY
TAXES
The Project will pay annual property taxes to the County, resulting in financial benefits to the community.
CLEAN ELECTRICITY GENERATION
The Project will generate emissions-free electricity for approximately 300,000 homes.
Project Documents
Project documents will be posted here when available.
