HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026_County of Newell MEG Program Media Release
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2026
County of Newell Secures Funding for Solar Energy Project at Administration Facility
County of Newell — The County of Newell has been approved for $383,200 in funding
from the Government of Alberta through the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre’s
Municipal Electricity Generation Program to support the installation of a solar-powered
micro-generation system at the County’s administration and shop facilities.
The project will see the installation of a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) system
designed to generate approximately 558,000 watts (DC) of electricity, which is enough to
offset the power consumption of the County’s main administrative complex.
With a total project budget of just under $1 million, this investment represents a
significant step toward reducing operating costs and improving long-term energy
sustainability for the County.
Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer or fall of 2026.
“This project is an investment in the County’s future,” said County of Newell Reeve Arno
Doerksen. “By generating our own electricity, we expect to reduce our long-term energy
costs.”
The Municipal Electricity Generation Program provides financial support to Alberta
municipalities to install on-site electricity generation systems that reduce energy costs and
greenhouse gas emissions while improving long-term resilience.
Once operational, the solar system will supply renewable energy directly to County
facilities, helping stabilize energy expenses and reduce reliance on external power sources.
“The County of Newell is showing forward-thinking leadership in how municipalities can
take action on energy that benefits both operations and residents,” added Trina Innes,
Executive Director of the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre. “This project is a great
example of improving community resilience.”
The Municipal Climate Change Action Centre is a partnership of Alberta Municipalities, the
Rural Municipalities of Alberta, and the Government of Alberta. Funding for the Municipal
Electricity Generation Program was provided by the Government of Alberta.
For more information, please contact
Layne Johnson
Director of Corporate Services
403-794-2326
johnsonl@newellmail.ca