BC Hydro has taken a significant step toward expanding British Columbia’s renewable energy capacity by securing Electricity Purchase Agreements (EPAs) with ten new renewable energy projects. The agreements, filed with the BC Utilities Commission, mark a milestone in BC Hydro’s efforts to ensure a sustainable and cost-effective power supply for the province.

Lower Costs, Greater Impact

The newly selected projects—comprising nine wind farms and one solar farm—will collectively generate approximately 4,830 gigawatt hours of electricity per year. This is enough to power 500,000 new homes and represents an 8% increase in BC Hydro’s current electricity supply.

What makes this announcement even more significant is the cost reduction achieved in this latest procurement round. The weighted average levelized price for these projects is $74 per megawatt hour (2024), reflecting a 45% cost reduction compared to BC Hydro’s last clean power call in 2010 (adjusted for inflation). This aligns with BC Hydro’s goal of maintaining affordable electricity rates for its customers while expanding its renewable energy portfolio.

Economic and Job Growth Across the Province

The development of these renewable projects is expected to attract between $5 billion and $6 billion in private investment. During construction, they are projected to generate an estimated 800 to 1,500 jobs annually across various regions of British Columbia. This economic boost not only enhances local economies but also accelerates the province’s shift towards cleaner energy sources. However, some companies argue that the weighted average levelized price for certain projects is too low, which may lead BC corporations to allocate their capital elsewhere.

First Nations Ownership and Economic Reconciliation

A standout feature of these agreements is the strong First Nations participation. All selected projects have significant First Nations ownership, with nearly all having majority ownership. This represents between $2.5 billion and $3 billion in First Nations equity, reinforcing BC Hydro’s commitment to economic reconciliation and fostering lasting partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Regulatory Review and Next Steps

As required under the Utilities Commission Act, BC Hydro has submitted its application for review by the BC Utilities Commission. This independent review will assess whether the agreements align with the public interest and the objectives outlined in the Clean Energy Act.

BC Hydro’s Official Statement

Please be advised that BC Hydro has filed an application with the BC Utilities Commission regarding EPAs for the projects selected from the 2024 Call for Power. Please see the BC Hydro news release here and key excerpts below:

“The weighted average levelized price for these successful projects is $74 per megawatt hour (2024), which is around 45 per cent lower than the contracts awarded in BC Hydro’s last call for clean power, after adjusting for inflation.”

“The development and construction of these projects are expected to attract between $5 billion and $6 billion in private capital investments, creating approximately 800 to 1,500 jobs annually on average during the construction phase across nearly every region in the province.”

With this strategic move, BC Hydro continues to solidify its role as a leader in renewable energy while ensuring a more sustainable and cost-efficient future for British Columbia.

Source: https://www.bchydro.com/news/press_centre/news_releases/2025/call-for-power-epas.html

In a groundbreaking move towards renewable energy and community empowerment, Saik’uz First Nation, in collaboration with Energy Economics, are exploring the development of a solar farm project, Sazul Nahuyutsa, translating to “they store the heat of the sun” in Saik’uz Hubughunek, the community’s indigenous dialect. The proposed 61 MW solar farm will feature approximately 96,000 solar panels spread across 350 acres, emphasizing sustainable energy production while ensuring the land remains viable for future food-security applications.

Upon completion, the Nation will retain majority ownership of the solar farm with an agreement option to acquire full ownership, if desirable. This option will allow Saik’uz to make an informed decision about their economic future and best optimize their social, economic, and environmental stewardship benefits from this project.

Currently, Sazul Nahuyutsa is set to participate in BC Hydro’s competitive 2024 Call for Power. If selected, the project will seek an electricity purchase agreement with the Province to secure stable and consistent project revenues over the next 30 years.

During its construction, Sazul Nahuyutsa is expected to generate local economic opportunities for employment, education, and cultural revitalization that will benefit Saik’uz and its surrounding communities. Once operational, the project will supply clean energy to as many as 6,000 homes and local businesses, supporting our local communities in achieving their net-zero goals.

Energy Economics held an exclusive project presentation with Saik’uz members on Thursday, September 12th at Saik’uz First Nation’s Gathering Place to discuss the opportunity. The evening featured drumming and singing, information sharing, a productive Q&A period, and was followed by a generous meal to enrich the relationship between community and industry. Energy Economics and Saik’uz First Nation will continue to grow their relationship as they collaborate on Sazul Nahuyutsa through community discussions and celebrations.

For questions about the project or Energy Economics, please contact [email protected].

Chief Priscilla Mueller of Saik’uz First Nation states, “We had a really good engagement with Josh and his team, and the community has been really receptive to the project. Building strong relationships is a core value to us as a Nation, and we’re excited about partnering with Energy Economics, as we know a strong relationship will be what drives this project’s success. With recent mill closures in the area, this is an opportunity that will help our communities and the communities around us while creating minimal impacts to the land.

Joshua Persaud, CEO of Energy Economics states, “We are honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with Saik’uz First Nation. Connecting with the community and working alongside such visionary leadership has been truly inspiring. Solar farms have the power to transform communities and create lasting impacts. They can make a positive impact on the environment but also create economic growth and build social capital for everyone involved. The Sazul Nahuyutsa Project exemplifies this potential.”

For more information, please contact:

Jim Jacobsen, Vice President – Marketing & Public Relations

Energy Economics Development Corp.

[email protected] / 250-254-2555

Link Source: https://energyeconomicssolar.ca/saikuz-first-nation-energy-economics-explore-a-new-solar-opportunity/

Read MoreSource: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2024/01/16/news/empowering-communities-and-fossil-fuel-workers-go-green (more…)

Enhancing Strata Living with Convenient Electric Vehicle Charging

In a significant move, the British Columbia government has introduced new rules that streamline the process for homeowners within strata developments to request electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These regulations, effective immediately, provide clarity on the procedure for homeowners to make such requests and set specific timelines for strata corporations to respond.

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon emphasized the importance of ensuring that the absence of EV charging access should not deter individuals from choosing strata living, often considered a more affordable housing option. These regulations align with the province’s commitment to accelerating the transition to zero-emission and electric vehicles.

Key Highlights with “Power My Home”:

1. Response Timeline: The regulations establish a specific timeline within which strata corporations must respond to a homeowner’s request for an EV charging station. This ensures a prompt and efficient process, promoting the adoption of electric vehicles.
2. Exclusive Parking Permissions: Strata now has the authority to grant an owner exclusive use of a parking stall for up to five years if the installation of an EV charging station is in response to the owner’s request. This ensures convenient and dedicated parking for EV owners.
3. Supporting Clean Energy Solutions with “Power My Home”: The regulations mandate strata to obtain an electrical planning report to prepare for necessary upgrades to accommodate low-carbon energy solutions, including EV charging. This move aligns with the recent legislation aimed at expediting the adoption of clean-energy vehicles. Explore more about clean energy at Power My Home.

Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation, highlighted that the surge in electric vehicle adoption in British Columbia necessitates such proactive measures. B.C. passed legislation last month to expedite the transition to zero-emission and electric vehicles.

Electrical Planning Reports:

The regulations require strata to obtain an electrical planning report to facilitate upgrades for low-carbon energy solutions, including EV charging infrastructure. This proactive approach enables strata corporations to plan for associated costs and operations linked to the growing demand for electric vehicles.

Voting Threshold Adjustment:

Part of Bill 22, the Strata Property Amendment Act, introduces a reduction in the voting threshold from three-quarters to a majority for approving decisions related to EV charging equipment.

Regional Implementation:

The deadlines for obtaining electrical planning reports are being phased in over three years. Strata in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and Greater Victoria are expected to have reports by late 2026, while other areas have until late 2028.

These regulations reflect a balanced solution, according to Tony Gioventu, CEO of the Condominium Home Owners Association, addressing the needs of owners desiring electric vehicles and charging facilities.

For more information about B.C.’s EV charger rebate program, visit goelectricbc.gov.bc.ca

Or email us at [email protected]

Welcome to the world of Solar Microgrids, where the sun becomes the driving force behind powering homes, businesses, and farms. In this article, we’ll unravel the concept of Solar Microgrids, their applications, and the transformative impact they bring to communities.

What is a Solar Microgrid?

Solar Microgrids are integrated networks or ‘grids’ of power, functioning much like the shared electricity networks used by you and your neighbors. The key difference lies in the source of energy – solar power. This innovative system captures, stores, and distributes clean electricity to entire communities through the installation of large, high-quality solar panels and batteries in a central location, often referred to as a ‘hub.’ This hub, securely housed beneath the solar panels, completes the microgrid by connecting electrical wiring to nearby houses, businesses, and farms.

The solar microgrid operates similarly to conventional power sources, with the central hub providing on-demand electricity to connected users. Families pay either a flat usage fee or a metered bill, contributing to the collective fund managed by an elected committee of community members. These funds are then utilized for future repairs or expansions of the network.

Solar Microgrids have proven successful in powering homes, hospitals, schools, businesses, irrigation pumps, street lights, and more. In Kenya alone, we have installed 10 solar microgrids with a combined capacity of 25.42 kW, bringing reliable, clean electricity to over 3,000 people.

Where is the Solar Microgrid Appropriate?

Solar Microgrids present a robust solution for rural electrification, particularly in remote communities without access to existing infrastructure. Ideal for small islands, mountainous regions, and remote rural areas, these microgrids thrive in regions with ample sunshine. Storage capabilities enable them to operate even during periods of sparse sunlight, making them versatile and reliable.

The scalability of Solar Microgrids is noteworthy. Systems range from 1.5 kW, supporting 25 homes and 5 businesses, to larger systems with capacities of up to 15 kW, catering to hundreds of households and small businesses. As communities grow, the microgrid can be seamlessly expanded to accommodate more users.

How Does the Solar Microgrid Work?

While Solar Microgrids hold immense potential as a renewable energy solution, their sustainability hinges on community involvement, training, and cooperation. At the heart of our approach is placing communities in control, working hand-in-hand with them from the inception to create a long-term vision and management plan. Discover more about our collaborative journey with communities as partners.

Join us in the solar revolution, where communities are empowered, and sustainable energy becomes a shared reality. Explore Power My Home and Energy Economics for more insights. Ready to embrace solar energy? Take the first step at www.powermyhome.ca.

The solar photovoltaics (PV) industry is experiencing a global boom, offering a promising solution to contemporary challenges such as climate change and universal electricity access. The success of PV plants hinges on their quality and performance, making them integral to a sustainable future.

Untapped Solar Potential and Global Energy Disparities

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), achieving universal electricity access is a prerequisite for any net-zero pathway. Astonishingly, nearly 700 million people worldwide lack access to electricity, with many lacking stable power for essential services like healthcare facilities. Paradoxically, the sun provides over 200,000 times the energy the world currently generates daily, with more than 80% of those without electricity residing in Sub-Saharan Africa—where sunlight is abundant.

Solar PV: A Catalyst for Change

Solar PV emerges as one of the most cost-effective ways to generate electricity globally. In 2022, solar PV generation witnessed a remarkable 26% annual growth, surpassing all other renewable energies. Projections indicate its continued ascent, set to exceed coal by 2027. This growth is a positive sign, especially considering the imperative to meet climate targets, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure electricity access for all.

The IEA asserts that by 2040, electricity generation must constitute almost half of total energy consumption to achieve net-zero targets by 2050. With electricity currently comprising only 20% of global energy consumption, solar PV stands as a transformative opportunity for the century.

Expert Insights into PV Industry Dynamics

Roger Taylor, a PV industry expert, underscores the significance of PV plant investment in quality products, design, and construction processes. He emphasizes the low operating costs of well-built PV plants, with sunlight being a free and abundant resource.

PV solar power plants are intricate systems comprising thousands of components. Taylor stresses that the safety and reliability of these plants depend on the complex interplay of various stages, including development, design, engineering, construction, operation, and maintenance, along with cybersecurity measures.

Standards: Ensuring Quality and Safety

IEC International Standards play a pivotal role in enabling solar PV installations to meet globally agreed requirements for quality, safety, and performance. With around 200 standards for PV components and additional standards for system design, quality management, and cybersecurity, the IEC ensures adherence to high-quality benchmarks.

Addressing End-of-Life Challenges

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights a potential increase in landfill waste as the PV market grows. However, adherence to standards, especially those governing design and construction, can mitigate environmental impact. Industry experts stress the importance of certifying PV components to specified quality levels, preventing premature retirements and ensuring environmental sustainability.

Global Certification Programs: Ensuring Quality Assurance

IECEE’s PV certification program offers access to qualified testing laboratories, certifying PV components according to IEC International Standards. These certificates assure compliance with global quality and safety requirements, instilling confidence across the supply chain.

Wolfram Zeitz, Executive Secretary for IEC CA Systems IECRE and IECEE, emphasizes the critical nature of assessing both components and the entire PV plant. This approach ensures the correct implementation of standards, maintaining quality and safety throughout the value chain.

Unlocking Solar Potential in Africa

Recognizing the resource limitations in many countries, IECEE’s PV certification program facilitates mutual recognition of conformity assessment certificates. In Kenya, the national certification approval scheme operates based on IECEE test reports and certificates, streamlining the clearance process for imported goods.

Irene Njine, Assistant Manager-Quality Assurance at KEBS, attests to the benefits of this program, citing time savings and simplified market entry for products tested by IECEE-recognized labs. Such schemes can also support governments in implementing incentives for solar products, as seen in Senegal’s quality control scheme, which exempts certified solar products from VAT.

The Future of Solar PV: Sustainable Growth

As solar PV experiences exponential growth, it aligns with the IEA’s vision of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Declining module prices and increased policy demands fuel this growth. Standards and conformity assessment play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable development, longevity of PV plants, and the realization of solar energy’s full potential.

In conclusion, the future of solar power looks bright, promising a sustainable energy landscape and addressing global challenges. Standards, certification programs, and international collaboration are key drivers in ensuring that solar PV continues to shine as a beacon of renewable energy.

Credit Liked to: Embracing the power of solar | IEC e-tech

Deep cycle batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that are designed to be discharged and recharged multiple times. They are commonly used in a variety of applications, including solar power systems, wind power systems, and electric vehicles.

Deep cycle batteries are different from starting batteries (also called SLI batteries), which are designed to deliver a high current for a short period of time, like starting an engine. Deep cycle batteries, on the other hand, are designed to deliver a lower current over a longer period of time, making them ideal for applications where the battery is regularly discharged and recharged.

The most common types of deep cycle batteries are lead-acid batteries, which are widely used in a variety of applications. They are relatively inexpensive, durable, and easy to maintain, however they have a lower energy density compared to other types of batteries, and they are not as efficient in high-temperature environments. Another type of deep cycle batteries are Lithium-ion batteries, which have a higher energy density and they are more efficient in high-temperature environments, but they are more expensive and have a shorter lifespan than lead-acid batteries.

When it comes to deep cycle batteries, it’s important to choose the right type of battery for your specific application. Factors to consider include the depth of discharge (the amount of the battery’s capacity that will be used before recharging), the number of cycles the battery is expected to undergo, and the environment in which the battery will be used.

It’s also important to properly maintain deep cycle batteries, by keeping them clean, fully charged and at the right temperature. This will ensure that they last as long as possible and perform at their best.

In conclusion, deep cycle batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that are designed to be discharged and recharged multiple times. They are commonly used in solar power systems, wind power systems, and electric vehicles. The most common types of deep cycle batteries are lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. It’s important to choose the right type of battery for your specific application and properly maintain the batteries to ensure they last as long as possible.