The Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) has taken a major step towards sustainability by partnering with Ameresco Inc. The company will develop a state-of-the-art solar park at the Fifth Canadian Division Support Base (CDSB) in Oromocto, New Brunswick. This initiative aligns with Canada’s goal to power federal facilities with 100% clean energy by 2025.
Solar Park Specifications and Energy Impact
The solar park will feature a ground-mounted system with an installed capacity of 7.4 MWac and 8.9 MWdc. Ameresco will handle the design, engineering, procurement and construction. The project, valued at CAD 26.7 million (USD 18.8 million), falls under Canada’s Federal Buildings Initiative.
The company will also integrate the solar park with the base’s existing electrical infrastructure. Once operational, Ameresco will manage the plant’s operations and maintenance for 25 years.
Environmental and Financial Benefits
The solar park will contain nearly 14,500 photovoltaic panels. It will generate approximately 8,900 MWh of electricity annually, supplying 20% of the base’s energy demand. All energy produced will be consumed on-site, ensuring efficiency and reducing dependence on external power sources. This project will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, offsetting around 7,690 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Additionally, the military base will save an estimated CAD 1.3 million in utility expenses annually.
Future of Renewable Energy in National Defense
The CDSB in Oromocto is one of Canada’s largest military installations. Ensuring energy resilience is critical to the base’s operational efficiency. The solar park will enhance energy security by reducing reliance on grid power. Bob McCullough, President of Ameresco Canada, emphasized the project’s importance, stating that investing in solar energy strengthens Canada’s sustainability efforts. The initiative ensures reliable and cost-effective power for the future while reinforcing Canada’s leadership in clean energy adoption.
The Ameresco solar park represents a step forward in the adoption of sustainable energy. The military base in Oromocto will benefit from cost savings, reduced emissions and enhanced energy security. The project exemplifies how renewable energy can transform defence operations. By harnessing the power of solar energy, Canada is moving closer to a cleaner, more resilient future.