During the summer of 2021, Brazeau County completed the installation of a new solar system at the Violet Grove Lagoon.
The 64 solar panels generate enough power to run the aeration system for the innovative Constructed Floating Wetlands over the lagoon, and supply power to the transfer station. This new system is in addition to over 900 solar panels installed in 2016/17 at the Breton Fire Hall, Lodgepole Fire Hall, the Rocky Rapids Water Treatment Plant, and the County Administration building.
“Brazeau County is taking action to protect our environment and air,” says Reeve Bart Guyon. “Combined, these projects will offset almost 150 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually, which helps reduce the County’s carbon footprint.”
The five solar systems together generate almost 298,800-kilowatt hours each year, with about 34,100-kilowatt hours/year expected from the new Violet Grove solar system. Funding for the project will come in part from Municipal Climate Change Action Centre’s (MCCAC) Alberta Municipal Solar Program.
Fast facts
- The entire solar array consists of 64 solar PV modules and has a maximum capacity of 28.8 kW DC.
- The system will produce enough electricity to aerate both lagoon cells and the transfer station for the Hamlet of Violet Grove.
- The five systems combined will generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of 25 average homes, offsetting about 150 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually. Enough CO2 reduction from the environment equivalent to 3,496 new trees, and Enough to take the equivalent of 46 passenger vehicles driven for a year off the road.
Bus association reaches end of the road
The Drayton Valley Community Bus Association, which has been a fixture in the area since the 1970s, has ceased operations.
Town responds to business concerns
Drayton Valley addresses homelessness, public safety, Town services, and free enterprise issues through detailed reports, communication strategies, and community solutions.
Drayton Valley builds reserves
Drayton Valley, Alberta, is planning for sustainable utilities by building reserves for future water and sewer infrastructure.
Jordan’s Principle Grant funding delays are disrupting education in an Alberta schools
As of December 20, Wild Rose School Division will be laying off 46 Educational Assistants due to the division not receiving the Jordan’s Principle grant from the Federal Government.
