Overview
In spring 2025, Lacombe County completed a solar PV expansion at the Rainy Creek Shop near Sylvan Lake. Supported by a $16,530 rebate from the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC), the project added 42 solar PV modules with a total capacity of 24.4 kW to the facility. This expansion builds on the existing 10.2 kW solar system already in operation. With this upgrade, the Rainy Creek Shop now generates enough electricity to fully offset its annual consumption.
Approach
The project expanded the shop’s solar system, built in 2016, from 10.2 kW to a total of 34.6 kW, ensuring the facility can meet its entire annual electricity demand with on-site renewable generation. Empower Energy completed the installation, which is expected to provide clean electricity for approximately 25 years.
Results
The 24.4 kW solar PV system produces approximately 22,558 kWh per year, resulting in about $5,413 in annual energy cost savings for the County. In addition, the system reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 11.07 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent each year. This reduction is comparable to the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed annually by approximately 500 trees, demonstrating Lacombe County’s commitment to clean, local energy and enhancing the long-term resilience of its infrastructure.
“Adding solar to these facilities is about more than energy savings—it’s about building smarter for the future. By investing in clean, local energy, we’re making our infrastructure more resilient and reducing long-term costs for our residents.”
Barb Shepherd, Reeve
“We applaud Lacombe County for their foresight in 2016, and are proud to support this investment in their future.”
Trina Innes, Executive Director, MCCAC
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