Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf has directed the Alberta Utilities Commission to review the policies and procedures for developing renewable energy projects, August 3, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Alberta to pause new renewable energy permits while reviewing policies

Aug 3, 2023 | 9:46 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Government of Alberta said it is responding to concerns about green energy projects.

Starting on August 3, 2023, the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) will pause approvals for new renewable electricity generation projects over one megawatt until Feb. 29, 2024.

During this period, the AUC will review the policies and procedures for the development of renewable electricity generation.

The province said in a news release that this is in response to a letter it received from the AUC and concerns raised by municipalities and landowners about responsible land use and the rapid pace of renewables development.

The AUC inquiry will include reviewing the use of agricultural and public lands for wind and solar projects, land reclamation, and the role that municipal governments play in land selection for these developments. Some examples of this include:

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• Development of power plants on specific types or classes of agricultural or environmental land.
• The impact of power plant development on Alberta’s pristine viewscapes.
• Mandatory reclamation security requirements for power plants.
• Development of power plants on lands held by the Crown.
• The impact of the increasing growth of renewables on Alberta’s generation supply mix and electricity system reliability.

  @lethbridgenewsnow The Government of Alberta is temporarily pausing approvals of permits for new renewable energy generation projects. Learn more at LethbridgeNewsNow.com #YQL #LNN #Alberta #Lethbridge ♬ original sound – Lethbridge News Now

Rural Municipalities of Alberta President Paul McLauchlin said the organization is pleased to know that a province-wide plan is being developed for how the renewable energy industry can grow strategically and responsibly.

“Rural municipalities cover roughly 85 per cent of Alberta’s land and their voices must be included in the approval process for all renewable energy projects,” said McLauchlin. “We look forward to working with the Government of Alberta to create an approval process that balances provincial and local perspectives and positions Alberta as a leader in responsible renewable energy development.”

According to the government, its goal in this process is to move forward with future renewable projects at a pace that is conducive to business while maintaining responsible environmental stewardship and preserving Alberta’s electricity supply.

Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf, who also serves as the MLA for Lethbridge-East, said he wants to ensure that future growth is balanced with responsible development.

“We are proud of our leadership in responsible renewable energy development and we are committed to its continued growth,” said Neudorf. “This approach will provide future renewable investments with the certainty and clarity required for long-term development.”

The letter that the AUC sent to Neudorf on this matter can be read in full on the Government of Alberta website.