Silicon Ranch’s 58MW Scotford Solar Farm Starts Operations

Marking a significant milestone in its international expansion, U.S. independent power producer Silicon Ranch has officially commenced commercial operations at its 58 MWac Scotford Solar Farm in Alberta, Canada. The facility represents the first utility-scale solar installation in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and powers the adjacent Shell Canada Energy and Chemicals Park Scotford.

As the largest behind-the-meter solar project in Canada, the Scotford facility is set to provide a significant portion of the refinery’s power needs. Under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), the solar farm will supply approximately 20% of the complex’s energy requirements, with the capacity to meet 100% of its electricity demand during peak production. This innovative, behind-the-meter solution serves as a replicable model for heavy industry seeking to integrate large-scale renewable energy into their operations.

True to its established business model, Silicon Ranch will serve as the long-term owner and operator of the project, a commitment that underscores its dedication to its partners and the local community. Reagan Farr, Co-Founder and CEO of Silicon Ranch, emphasized this approach, stating, “This project not only supports Shell’s economic and operational goals, but also catalyses our significant capital investment in the community. As the long-term owner of this facility and the land it occupies, Silicon Ranch will contribute critical tax revenues to help fund government-identified priorities for decades to come.”

The Scotford project is a landmark achievement for a company known for pioneering utility-scale solar energy in multiple U.S. states, including Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. With a portfolio exceeding six gigawatts of solar and battery storage systems across North America, Silicon Ranch continues to expand its footprint while championing agrivoltaics through its Regenerative Energy® platform, which integrates regenerative ranching practices with solar power generation to improve land health.

Sources

1. Scotford Solar Project | Silicon Ranch
2. Scotford Solar Power Project – Global Energy Monitor
3. Silicon Ranch brings 58MW Alberta PV project online
4. Silicon Ranch Starts Up Its First International Solar Project in Canada
5. Silicon Ranch Energizes First Utility-Scale Solar Project in Alberta’s Heartland
6. CN: Silicon Ranch Energizes First Utility-Scale Solar Project