Varcoe: 'The tip of the iceberg' as Amazon and Labatt sign renewable power deals in Alberta

Source: Chris Varcoe · CALGARY HERALD · | April 20, 2021

This week's announcements follow on Shell, RBC and TC Energy making similar commitments, as companies strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from their operations

Source: In this photo, 600 solar panels can be seen spread across the roof of the Southland Leisure Centre. PHOTO BY CHRISTINA RYAN /Calgary Herald archives

What do beer, banking and the world’s biggest online retailer now have in common?

Companies involved in these diverse businesses are all making major renewable energy investments in Alberta.

Amazon, the largest corporate purchaser of renewable energy in the world, announced Monday its first such investment in Canada. It will acquire electricity from a new solar project in Newell County, to be built by Greengate Power Corp. of Calgary.

“It is significant that a company like Amazon is making its first commitment like this in Canada, in Alberta,” said Robert Hornung, president of the Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

“It’s a reflection of the unique market structure and opportunity that Alberta provides.”

The announcement came the same day Labatt Breweries of Canada unveiled a power purchase agreement with Edmonton-based Capital Power to buy electricity from the company’s new Enchant Solar facility in southern Alberta.