Cardston County in southern Alberta has long been dependent on agriculture and tourism for revenue, but wind energy has emerged as an emerging economic factor. However, the news that TransAlta is canceling a large wind power project planned for the area is a significant financial setback for the county. The project, known as the Riplinger project, would have contributed millions of dollars to the county’s coffers, which would have been used for various purposes, according to Cardston County Reeve Randy Bullock. The cancellation of the project is a blow to the county, as it would have been a significant source of revenue for them.
TransAlta CEO John Kousinioris cited new restrictions on development near protected areas and pristine views as the reason for canceling the Riplinger project. The majority of Cardston County Council was anticipating this investment, as it would have contributed significantly to the county’s tax revenues. Bullock expressed concern over the challenge of funding projects without burdening area residents with major tax increases. The County Council is working to avoid being a tax burden on individuals and is reluctant to borrow money for infrastructure improvements. They are looking to build water treatment facilities, regional water lines, and pave roads, among other capital expenditures.
The provincial government has played a role in limiting the county’s ability to attract and tax renewable energy projects, according to Bullock. This has led to projects being put on hold until the province provides grant funding. Bullock emphasized the county’s desire to be self-reliant and not rely on constant grants or financial contributions. He expressed frustration with the Alberta government’s restructuring of the energy markets, as it has caused uncertainty and hindered investment in projects like the Riplinger project. The government’s changes to energy market rules have forced TransAlta to pause development on several other projects, including a battery project and a gas project.
Moshe Lander, an economics professor, criticized the Alberta government for discouraging investment in renewable energy sources like wind and solar. He emphasized the importance of expanding the economy outside of the province’s two major cities and the need for growth in other areas. The Alberta government’s restructuring of the energy markets has created uncertainty and a lack of clarity for companies like TransAlta, leading to a soft moratorium on the renewable energy sector in Alberta. The government is working to attract investment and new projects in the energy sector, but investors are waiting for final details on the restrictions and rules.
Despite the challenges, the province of Alberta continues to attract investment in renewable energy projects, with over 3,000 MW of wind projects currently under construction. The addition of projects like Cascade, Suncor, and the conversion of Genesee from coal to natural gas are changing the competitive landscape. Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Nathan Neudorf, stated that Alberta’s changing energy landscape requires long-term solutions and governmental restructuring to provide stability, reliability, and affordability for electrical needs. Bullock expressed the county’s hope to attract government funding for projects within their municipality and emphasized the importance of financial assistance to support infrastructure improvements in the area.
In recent years, Cardston County has faced opposition to wind farms, with concerns about the visual impact of windmills on the landscape. The county adopted a renewable tax incentive bylaw aimed at attracting investment to the area, and Bullock mentioned that they will be reviewing this bylaw to make any necessary adjustments for the future. The cancellation of the Riplinger project serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in balancing economic development, environmental concerns, and community interests in rural areas like Cardston County.
