The Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) is on a path to net-zero emissions after launching a 4.86-megawatt solar farm that will power 1,200 homes and prevent 4,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
The idea for the project came from citizens of the Nation, reports CBC.
“We went out to the citizens all around Alberta and asked them what they were concerned about and what they wanted us to do when it came to climate action and environmental action,” said Jennifer Pylypiw, the Nation’s environment and climate change engagement and policy manager.
“Someone brought up the idea of a solar farm and that was kind of the spur that was the spark, and here we are now five years later.”
The project is named Salay Prayzaan, meaning ‘gift from the sun’ in Michif, and is one of several solar farms on Indigenous land located in Alberta. In July, the federal government announced more than $160 million in investment for nine Indigenous-led solar projects in the province.
Other projects in Alberta include solar farms at Lubicon Cree Nation, Fort McKay First Nation, Beaver Lake Cree Nation, and Louis Bull Tribe at Maskwacis. This one will be the most northerly grid-connected solar project of its size in Alberta, the MNA says.
Andres Filella, the MNA’s director of environment and climate change, explained the community decided on a solar project because the location at Métis Crossing is more sunny than windy.
Salay Prayzaan is a collaboration between the Nation, the Town of Smoky Lake, and Smoky Lake County, and is meant to fit in with the ongoing development of Métis Crossing, the province’s first major Métis cultural interpretive destination. It is a key initiative under the MNA climate change action plan, according to a release.
A portion of the revenue generated by the solar farm “will be dedicated to a community development fund to support other green energy and sustainable development in the area,” and profits will be used to fund social and economic development initiatives and programs.
“We’re extremely proud that Salay Prayzaan is 100% MNA-owned,” said Filella. “The project, which is the MNA’s largest solar project, represents a significant step forward for climate action, Métis sovereignty, and self-sufficiency.”
“We’re also excited that Salay Prayzaan is bringing extensive economic benefits to our partners in the Smoky Lake community.”
