B.C.’s first grid-connected solar facility fires up

SunMine, B.C.’s first grid-connected solar facility and Canada’s largest project to use solar trackers, is now commercially operational.

The 1.05 MW (megawatt) solar project in the City of Kimberley consists of 4,032 solar-cell modules mounted on 96 trackers, which follow the suns movement, maximizing solar exposure.

The German-engineered trackers provide as much as 38 per cent more energy than a fixed system.

The trackers capitalize on the electricity generated during the morning and evening, peak demand times when BC Hydro has the greatest need for electricity and pays a premium for it.

The Kimberley site was chosen after analysts determined it to be the sunniest location in the province, averaging 300 days of sunshine a year.

And the snow in the winter reflects sunlight, meaning more energy production. Construction on the project began June last year.

Production data since June 22 confirms that the energy being generated by the SunMine is exceeding the modeled design potential.

"SunMine is a great example of the resiliency of our community," said Kimberley Mayor Don McCormick.

"We are thriving and pursuing new and innovative directions. Although SunMine is the largest solar facility in BC, it is relatively small."

"As the SunMine proves its potential, the City of Kimberley is looking to expand it and have already had several inquiries from prospective partners."

SunMine is supplying enough electricity to the BC Hydro grid to power about 200 homes.

"Innovative, private clean energy projects have helped power B.C. since the 1980s and are a cornerstone of B.C.’s energy policy," said Minister Bennett, Minister of Energy and Mines.

"The SunMine project has the potential to spur interest in development of other solar projects, bringing more jobs and economic benefits to communities across B.C."

Teck provided use of the land and site infrastructure as well as a $2 million contribution towards the project.

SunMine is located on Teck’s former Sullivan Mine site, which has been fully reclaimed.

"Participating in SunMine reflects both Teck’s commitment to supporting local communities, even after mining has ceased, and our focus on expanding the use of alternative energy," said Don Lindsay, president and CEO of Teck. "We’re proud to be contributing to the long-term prosperity of Kimberley and commend the City for their entrepreneurial spirit."

The city also received support for the project from Columbia Basin Trust and the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust and the Province’s $1 million contribution through the Innovative Clean Energy Fund.

The SunMine project was conceived and supported by the Vancouver-based EcoSmart Foundation.

"I’m extremely pleased that SunMine’s initial operation confirms the expected performance benefits of the project’s innovative design," said EcoSmart CEO Michel de Spot. "Solar energy is one of the fastest growing industries in North America and its potential in BC is exceptional. EcoSmart is proud to have collaborated with Teck and Kimberley on this innovative project."