EDF EN Canada Inc., a subsidiary of EDF Energies Nouvelles, announced that the second phase of the Lac-Alfred Wind Project (150 MW) in Quebec was declared for commercial operation on August 31, 2013.
Lac-Alfred represents one of the seven wind energy projects in total awarded to the company in 2008 and 2010 through Hydro-Quebec Distribution calls for tenders. By the end of 2015, EDF EN Canada will have developed and built a total of 1,003.2 MW in the province.
The Lac-Alfred Wind Project is located in the municipalities of Saint-Cléophas, Sainte-Irène, Saint-Zénon-du-Lac-Humqui and the unorganized territory (UT) of Lac Alfred in the MRC de La Matapédia and in the municipality of La Rédemption and UT Lac-à-la-Croix in the MRC de La Mitis. The 300 MW project was constructed in two phases, 150 MW each, comprising of a total of 150 wind turbines supplied by REpower and made with regionally-manufactured blades, towers and converters. Lac-Alfred Phase 1 was commissioned in January 2013.
With an investment of about CAD$700 million, the project created more than 350 jobs during the construction phase, and will provide 15 permanent operations and maintenance jobs. Enbridge Inc., participates in Lac-Alfred (phase 1 and phase 2) as a co-owner through a 50 percent investment.
EDF EN Canada Inc.'s operation and maintenance affiliate, EDF Renewable Services Inc. will provide long-term operations and maintenance (O&M) services. Hydro-Quebec will buy the power under 20-year power purchase agreements (PPA).
"The reception and support from the communities and municipalities have greatly contributed to the success of these valuable wind projects. Together with our partner Enbridge, we proudly announce the commissioning and the delivery of clean energy to the region," commented Benoit Rigal, Vice President, Engineering and Construction for EDF EN Canada. "Bringing all 300 megawatts of Lac-Alfred to completion ahead of schedule is a result of outstanding efforts by REpower, Borea and our EDF EN Canada team who worked together to overcome challenges due to a complex site. The entire team performed with professional diligence, always putting safety first while maintaining respect of the environment."
Alex Couture, Project Development Director for EDF EN Canada further added, "Throughout the 20-year contract with Hydro-Quebec, the municipalities will receive a combined annual contribution of $750,000. The smooth and expeditious permitting process proved a testament to the strong trust and cooperation we have with the local communities, and we are grateful for their ongoing support."
EDF EN Canada commissioned its first wind project, Saint-Robert-Bellarmin (80 MW), in October 2012, followed by Massif du Sud (150 MW) and Phase 1 of Lac-Alfred (150 MW) in January 2013. In total, the Company has placed into service 530 MW in Quebec which created employment opportunities for nearly 750 people in the development and construction phase.