A graph of the proposed project area with subsequent turbines throughout within the Hand Hills. ECA Review/Alberta Utilities Commission
The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) will be considering the power plant and substation amendment application for the Hand Hills Wind Project as part of Proceeding 22843.
BER Hand Hills Wind GP Inc., a division of BluEarth Renewables, has applied to amend their previously approved project located approximately five kilometres southeast of Delia directly in the Hand Hills.
Approval for the project was originally given by the AUC on June 21, 2018.
At this time, they had planned on constructing 34, 2.3 megawatt turbines that would generate 78.2 MW but with advancements in technology, the company has requested changes, requiring less turbines that can handle more power.
The amendment application was filed on Feb. 28, 2020 with supplementary information given on April 14 for approval to construct 29, 180-metre-tall wind turbines with a total capacity of 130 megawatts.
This application also confirmed the company would not be applying for the spare turbine locations previously requested.
A network of underground and overhead 35.4-kilovolt cables would connect the wind turbines to the already-approved substation.
They have also requested approval to alter the equipment in the project substation and to change the completion date to Dec. 31, 2022.
Anyone that may be affected by this application is asked to provide their input to the AUC to review before they make their decision.
The deadline for written submissions is Fri. June 12.
People interested in participating in the proceeding are encouraged to visit the AUC website and find Proceeding 22843.
Terri Huxley
ECA Review
