City introduces solar power at Leduc Protective Services facility

Monday, March 22, 2021

The City of Leduc has recently integrated solar power into the Leduc Protective Services facility by installing 222 solar panels on the roof of the new tower.

The system, which was installed in November 2020, will produce enough power to account for 16 per cent of the facility’s total electricity consumption. The solar panels are also expected to reduce the city’s carbon dioxide emissions by 45 tonnes annually; this is equivalent to taking 14 vehicles off the road each year.

“Adding solar panels to the Leduc Protective Services facility demonstrates how the city continues to show care and respect for our planet while balancing the need for growth and development,” says Leduc Mayor Bob Young. “By reducing electricity consumption and carbon dioxide emissions at the facility, the city has taken another step forward in our efforts to meet our greenhouse gas reduction targets and reduce operating costs.”

The system has an expected lifespan/warranty period of 30 years, cost approximately $208,000 to install and is estimated to save the city roughly $3,700 per year. The project was paid for in part with a grant of $62,000 from the Alberta Municipal Solar Program, which is administered by the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre. The expected annual savings and panel lifespan figures are conservative and reflect the warranty period. We expect the rate of return on the system to be closer to 40 years, which will allow for cost recovery.

“By installing solar on civic facilities the City of Leduc is making meaningful progress on their GHG Reduction Plan,” says the Action Centre’s Executive Director, Trina Innes. “The City’s leadership reduces operating costs and inspires residents and businesses to help build a resilient community.”

The Leduc Protective Services facility remains connected to the electrical grid as a continuous source of electricity.

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About the City of Leduc
Leduc is a growing, dynamic city in the heart of Canada’s economic engine and conveniently located at the crossroads of air, highway and rail transportation. Leduc is a centre of innovation, entrepreneurship and quality of life. As a regional leader, the city, together with neighbouring municipalities, play a key role in protecting the integrity of Edmonton International Airport (EIA) and leading economic development in the region, including EIA Airport City. For information on non-emergency city services and programs, visit www.leduc.ca or follow us on Facebook.com/cityofleduc, Twitter (@cityofleduc) and Instagram (@thecityofleduc).

About the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre
The Municipal Climate Change Action Centre is led by the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association in collaboration with Rural Municipalities of Alberta and the Government of Alberta. It provides funding, technical assistance, and education to municipalities, schools, and community organizations, helping them lower energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve climate resilience. Learn more at mccac.ca.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Karen Yake, Communications Officer
kyake@leduc.ca