Canada’s Ambitious Urban Solar Power Project: Medicine Hat’s Saamis Solar Park

Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by Vitaliy

Medicine Hat is changing its story. Known for its historic natural gas roots, this Alberta city is now set to host one of North America’s largest urban solar installations. The Saamis Solar Park is a 1,600‑acre project on Medicine Hat’s northwest edge that aims to produce 325 MW of clean power. This is a big step for the city and for Canada’s move toward renewable energy.

Introduction

Overview of the Saamis Solar Park

The Saamis Solar Park is a utility‑scale, ground‑mounted solar photovoltaic project planned for a 1,600‑acre site. It is built to be one of the largest urban solar farms on the continent. With a planned capacity of 325 MW, this installation will rival the output of Medicine Hat’s 299 MW gas‑fired plant. The project stands out not only because of its scale but also because it is built inside city limits.

Medicine Hat’s Solar Potential

Medicine Hat tops the charts with around 330 sunny days per year. That makes it an ideal location for solar energy. This city’s abundant sunshine means that 1 kW of installed solar can produce roughly 1,500 kWh annually. With such high solar potential, using a large brownfield site for a solar farm is an efficient and practical solution.

The Shift to Renewable Energy

The Saamis Solar Park fits squarely within Canada’s broader push for cleaner energy. Alberta has set a target of 30% renewable electricity by 2030, while Canada moves steadily toward net‑zero emissions by 2050. By turning a contaminated industrial site into a source of clean power, Medicine Hat not only repurposes land that has limited development potential but also supports a major national energy transition.

Project Scope and Development

Capacity and Energy Generation

The project is designed for a peak capacity of 325 MW. Once fully operational, this capacity will supply power to roughly 65,000 residents. On bright days, the solar park could even exceed the output of Medicine Hat’s existing gas‑fired plant. This clear demonstration of solar’s potential in a mid‑sized city signals that renewable energy can shoulder a significant portion of local electricity demand.

Scale of the Project: Solar Panels and Infrastructure

Over 600,000 solar panels will cover the site. These panels come in two types: fixed‑tilt and single‑axis tracking panels, which adjust throughout the day to maximize energy yield. Each array will have its own inverter and transformer station to convert the direct current into grid‑compatible alternating current. An extensive electrical collection system and a new substation will link the project to Alberta’s grid, ensuring the generated power flows reliably to homes and businesses.

Key infrastructure elements include:

• Inverter/Transformer Stations: Convert and step up the power.
• Electrical Collection Network: Routes the generated energy to the substation.
• Access Roads: Allow maintenance crews to service the site.
• Substation Connection: Ties the solar power to the Alberta Interconnected Electric System.

Funding and Management

Originally developed by Irish renewable energy company DP Energy, the project secured development rights in 2017. In early 2025, the City of Medicine Hat acquired the project from DP Energy. This move brings local control into the equation, ensuring that the city can oversee the construction and operation of its solar asset.

The estimated total investment for the full 325‑MW facility is around $600 million. The city plans to build the project in phases, starting with a 75‑MW first phase. This staged approach allows Medicine Hat to manage costs, address grid integration issues, and gather experience before scaling up further. Funding will come from a mix of federal support, such as grants that may cover up to 15% of construction costs, and financing from the Canada Infrastructure Bank.

Land Use and Environmental Considerations

Choosing a Brownfield Site

The Saamis Solar Park is unique in its use of a brownfield site. The location was once an industrial area that produced significant environmental challenges due to contamination. Using this site means putting a productive use to land that otherwise would sit idle, thereby creating an environmental win–win.

Understanding Phosphogypsum

A key feature of the site is a large capped phosphogypsum stack. Phosphogypsum is a waste product from phosphate fertilizer production. It is slightly radioactive and can emit radon gas as it decays. By choosing this site, developers turn a hazardous by‑product into an opportunity for clean energy. The contaminated area has been safely capped with clay and topsoil to keep the hazards contained.

Mitigating Environmental Risks

To ensure that the existing contamination remains undisturbed, the project uses a ballasted mounting system in affected areas. These systems use weighted concrete footings that sit on top of the ground, rather than deep foundations that could breach the cap. Conventional pile‑driven mounts will be used in the non‑contaminated sections. This careful planning preserves the integrity of the containment system while allowing for full-scale solar deployment.

Impact on Local Wildlife and Biodiversity

Although the site is industrial in nature and has low ecological value compared to pristine land, the project still considers local biodiversity. The northern edge of the site borders the South Saskatchewan River, so measures are in place to control runoff and sediment during construction. While solar farms typically have low impact on wildlife, steps will be taken to relocate any nesting birds or burrowing animals found on‑site. Long‑term vegetation management may include seeding native grasses and using low‑impact maintenance techniques.

Economic and Energy Impact

Supplying Clean Power

At a capacity of 325 MW, the Saamis Solar Park will generate enough electricity to power between 25,000 and 30,000 households continuously. For Medicine Hat, this means improved energy security and a diversified energy portfolio. Clean, locally generated electricity can stabilize costs over the long term by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and avoiding volatile natural gas prices.

Boosting the Local Economy

The project is set to create hundreds of jobs during its construction phase. This includes roles for engineers, electricians, technicians, and various support staff. Once operational, the solar park will require a smaller permanent staff for maintenance and monitoring, providing long‑term employment opportunities. Local businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, are expected to benefit from increased economic activity related to the construction and ongoing operations.

Lowering Electricity Costs

By generating power locally, Medicine Hat stands to lower its electricity costs over time. The high upfront capital costs of solar are offset by low operating costs; sunlight is free, and there are no fuel costs. This shift can help protect the city from rising transmission fees and fluctuations in fossil fuel prices. In addition, the project is expected to reduce the city’s carbon emissions, potentially saving millions in carbon compliance costs. Projections suggest that every 25 MW of solar capacity could offset about 21,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, saving roughly $1.5 million per year in carbon levies. Over the lifespan of the project, these savings could add up to tens of millions of dollars.

Comparing to Other Canadian Solar Farms

The economic and energy benefits of Saamis Solar Park compare favorably to other large‑scale solar projects in Canada. While the Travers Solar Project in Vulcan County operates at 465 MW and covers 3,300 acres, it is situated in a rural area. Saamis, with its 325‑MW capacity on a 1,600‑acre site, is the largest urban solar project in North America. This urban setting offers unique benefits, including shorter transmission distances and direct local community benefits.

Comparison with Other Major Solar Projects in North America

Copper Mountain Solar Facility (Nevada)

Copper Mountain Solar Facility in Boulder City, Nevada, stands at 802 MW and is one of the largest photovoltaic installations in the U.S. Although its capacity exceeds Saamis Solar Park, Copper Mountain is built on remote desert land. Saamis distinguishes itself by being located in an urban environment, where the power is fed directly into the local grid.

Travers Solar Project (Alberta)

The Travers Solar Project, with its 465‑MW capacity in Vulcan County, is currently Canada’s largest solar farm. While Travers is significant in size and serves a large rural area, Saamis is notable for its urban setting. The fact that a mid‑sized city like Medicine Hat is taking on such a project demonstrates that urban centers can host large‑scale renewable installations while maintaining local control and community benefits.

Unique Urban Solar Projects

Medicine Hat’s project is the first of its kind in many ways. The idea of integrating a large‑scale solar farm within city limits is not common in North America. Other urban projects, like Calgary’s smaller solar initiatives on brownfields, show the potential for using otherwise unproductive land. Saamis Solar Park serves as a clear example of how cities can transform environmental liabilities into valuable assets while meeting energy demands.

Regulatory and Approval Process

Securing Permits and Approvals

The journey to build the Saamis Solar Park began in 2017 when DP Energy secured site control and development rights. The project underwent several rounds of reviews before obtaining a development permit from the City of Medicine Hat in 2019. A crucial step was receiving approval from the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) in mid‑2024. The AUC reviewed technical details, environmental assessments, and public input to confirm that the project served the public interest.

Role of the Alberta Utilities Commission

The AUC is the key regulatory body for power generation projects in Alberta. It evaluates applications on the basis of environmental impact, technical design, grid integration, and overall benefit to the community. Saamis Solar Park had to pass through technical studies and a public hearing held in Medicine Hat during April 2024. Once approved, the AUC also validated the transfer of the project’s permit from DP Energy to the City of Medicine Hat in early 2025. This comprehensive review process ensured that the project met all regulatory standards and was positioned for safe construction and operation.

Environmental Compliance Measures

Given the site’s history and the presence of phosphogypsum, stringent environmental measures were required. The project includes continuous monitoring of the capped area and regular inspections to ensure that no contamination is released during construction or operation. Environmental compliance extends to protecting nearby wildlife and the adjacent South Saskatchewan River, where runoff controls are in place. The regulatory approvals confirm that all potential risks have been addressed satisfactorily.

Future Expansion and Energy Storage Possibilities

Battery Storage Integration

Solar energy production is naturally variable. To address this, the City of Medicine Hat is considering integrating battery storage systems with the Saamis Solar Park. By storing excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours, the city can ensure a steadier supply during periods of lower sunlight or at night. Adding batteries would make the solar park a more reliable source of power for evening peaks and emergency backup.

Considering Additional Renewable Options

Beyond battery storage, the city is evaluating the potential for other renewable energy options. Discussions have taken place regarding future wind installations to complement the solar power generation. While there are no concrete plans for wind turbines yet, exploring a mix of renewables can provide a more balanced and resilient energy system.

Aligning with Net‑Zero Carbon Goals

Expanding the solar park and integrating energy storage will help Medicine Hat contribute even more to Canada’s net‑zero emissions target by 2050. By gradually scaling the project beyond the initial 75‑MW phase and incorporating new technologies, the city can continuously boost its clean power output while reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.

Challenges and Risks

Construction and Supply Chain Issues

Large‑scale projects like the Saamis Solar Park come with significant challenges. One of the most immediate issues is the construction process. Procuring over 600,000 solar panels, along with the necessary inverters, transformers, and mounting systems, is a massive logistical effort. Global supply chain disruptions—whether due to material shortages, tariffs, or high demand—could affect timelines and costs. The unique conditions of the brownfield site require specialized equipment and careful handling, which may further complicate construction.

Working on Contaminated Land

Building on a phosphogypsum stack is not standard practice. Contractors must ensure that heavy machinery does not disturb the capped waste material. The use of ballasted mounting systems helps maintain the integrity of the cap, but it does require additional planning and oversight. This adds a layer of complexity to an already large project.

Regulatory and Policy Uncertainty

Energy policy in Alberta can change with political shifts. Although the current provincial government has supported renewable projects, future changes in policy or energy pricing could affect the project’s economics. Past instances of temporary moratoriums on new renewable projects remind us that regulatory environments can be unpredictable. The city’s phased approach, however, offers a measure of flexibility if policy adjustments occur.

Weather and Performance Considerations

Even in a sunny city like Medicine Hat, seasonal changes affect solar output. During the short, cloudy winter days, the park will generate significantly less electricity. This variability means that while solar power will supply a large portion of the city’s needs, backup systems (such as natural gas turbines) might still be required during low‑production periods. Moreover, maintenance needs—such as cleaning panels to remove dust and snow—add to operational considerations over the project’s lifetime.

Financial and Funding Risks

Securing $600 million for a project of this scale is challenging. The phased construction plan helps mitigate risk by allowing the city to evaluate performance before committing to full‑scale build‑out. However, fluctuations in interest rates, changes in federal grant programs, or unforeseen cost overruns could impact the overall financial viability. Medicine Hat is carefully reviewing detailed business plans to minimize these risks.

Public Perception and Community Involvement

Community Support and Benefits

The Saamis Solar Park has generated significant attention in Medicine Hat. Many residents view the project as a bold move toward sustainability and a statement that the city is ready to lead in renewable energy. The idea of transforming a contaminated industrial site into a source of clean power has practical appeal. Local benefits include improved energy security, potential long‑term savings on electricity costs, and new job opportunities during construction and maintenance.

Addressing Concerns and Critiques

Not everyone is on board, however. Some community groups, including the Medicine Hat Utility Ratepayers Association, have expressed concerns about the $600‑million price tag and the possibility that the project’s costs might lead to higher electricity rates. Critics also question whether the city’s decision to take on such a project was made with sufficient public input. These voices call for more transparency in decision‑making and for ongoing community consultation as the project moves forward.

Efforts to Involve the Public

City officials have held public meetings and open houses to explain the project’s details and answer questions. Information sessions provided by DP Energy and later by the city’s utility department have helped clarify the benefits, the construction timeline, and the measures taken to ensure environmental safety. The hope is that by keeping the public informed, Medicine Hat can build a consensus and a sense of ownership over the project. Some officials are even planning educational programs and site tours once the solar park is operational, so residents can see the technology and the benefits first‑hand.

Conclusion

The Saamis Solar Park represents a significant shift for Medicine Hat. With a planned capacity of 325 MW on a 1,600‑acre brownfield site, the project transforms a legacy industrial problem into a modern energy solution. This initiative not only produces enough clean power for tens of thousands of households but also stimulates local economic growth through job creation and reduced carbon costs. Medicine Hat’s bold investment shows that even cities with a fossil fuel past can lead the way in renewable energy.

The project aligns with Canada’s clean energy goals, supporting Alberta’s target of 30% renewable electricity by 2030 and contributing to the broader net‑zero emissions goal by 2050. By repurposing a contaminated site with over 600,000 solar panels and advanced electrical infrastructure, Medicine Hat is setting a new standard for urban solar power.

The detailed regulatory process—featuring rigorous technical reviews and public hearings—underscores that the project is built on careful planning and meets all safety and environmental standards. With strong community engagement and a phased construction approach, the city has taken practical steps to manage risks ranging from supply chain challenges to weather variability.

Looking ahead, the potential for adding battery storage and even integrating other renewable energy sources could make the Saamis Solar Park an even more reliable contributor to Medicine Hat’s energy mix. This forward‑thinking strategy positions the city as a potential leader in urban renewable projects—a model that other cities in Canada and North America might follow.

In summary, the Saamis Solar Park is a clear, data‑driven example of how urban centers can shift from traditional fossil fuels to clean energy. It demonstrates that large‑scale solar projects can thrive in a city setting when supported by sound planning, robust regulation, and community involvement. As Medicine Hat moves forward, residents and policymakers alike will be watching the progress closely. The project holds the promise of lowering electricity costs, reducing carbon emissions by hundreds of thousands of tonnes per year, and creating a lasting legacy of sustainable progress.

Canada goes Solar is more than a slogan for Medicine Hat—it is a reality unfolding before our eyes. For those of us at SolarEnergies.ca and beyond, this project is proof that practical, well‑planned solar installations can drive real change. The Saamis Solar Park is not about hype or empty promises; it’s about tangible benefits in energy, economics, and environmental stewardship. As the city transforms from a “Gas City” to a “Solar City,” other municipalities may well take note and follow suit in building a cleaner, more resilient future.

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