Montana First Nation is going green with a solar energy pilot project.
The grand opening of the project, implemented by the Montana First Nation band and Green Arrow Renewable Resource Corp., was held at the band office Aug. 13.
The solar energy project is working to power approximately 150 homes and 10 commercial buildings, including the band office, with a series of solar panels. On the day of the grand opening, the office was demonstrating it could be run solely on solar power.
“It’s a very proud day for Montana First Nation,” said Chief Bradley Rabbit, who stated the project allowed for restructured administration costs and operations of services.
Those at the band office are not the only ones relieved to feel the pressure of energy costs decrease. Band member Cecil Currie Jr. attended the grand opening to speak to how the eight solar panels installed on his roof has impacted his life.
Currie’s energy bill for December 2013 and January 2014 came in at more than $800.
As of July 2014, his bill was down to $170 per month. “In the 20 years of having my home, that’s the first time it’s ever been that warm.”
In the last two months of operation, the solar powers atop the band office have generated 37.5 megawatt hours of electricity. “Our bill has dropped about $2,000. By generating our own electricity, we’re buying less brown power,” said Barry Wheaton, Green Arrow CEO.
“That’s enough power to run an NFL-sized stadium for two days,” he added.
This project also has the carbon reduction capacity equaling 15 vehicles off the road for a full year. The estimated value of energy to be saved over the next 25 years totals more than $451,000.
“I believe economic independence for First Nations begins with energy independence,” said Wheaton.
Along with efficient solar energy panels, Montana houses identified by the program are also receiving energy efficient furnaces and having all mold removed.
Wheaton also stated band members are being trained and employed in mold removal in insulation work.
In September, a wind tower is scheduled for completion, located west of the band office.
The project was funded last year with a grant from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, and other support has come from partnerships with Enmax and Great Canadian Solar.
Chief Rabbit says the Montana First Nation mission statement projects the creation of a healthy community. “With these partnerships, we were able to do so.”
“We were blessed to be able to create partnerships,” he added.
The fruition of the project, for Rabbit, has magnified the careful planning, dedication and teamwork between all those involved. During the grand opening, band members Clint Rabbit, Quentin Potts, Craig Rabbit, Whalen Strongman and Nelson Potts received awards of recognition of their work.
“Everybody worked hard to make this a reality,” said Rabbit. “When we work together, we’re able to succeed.”
Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Minister Robin Campbell and Lacombe Ponoka MLA Rod Fox also attended the event.
“This is the type of innovation Alberta encourages,” said Campbell.
“Dare I say you are at the forefront of solar energy in western Canada,” Fox added.