• Title: Northland Power Secures Financing for Jurassic Battery Energy Storage Project: A Major Step for Clean Energy in Alberta

• Content:

Introduction

In a significant advancement for renewable energy in Canada, Northland Power Inc. has officially secured financing for the Jurassic Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project located in Cypress County, Alberta. This project, once completed, is set to become Alberta’s largest battery storage facility and is poised to play a critical role in enhancing energy stability and reliability in the region.

Financing Details

On April 9, 2025, Northland Power announced that it had achieved financial close on the Jurassic BESS project, signaling a green light for construction to commence. The project, which has an estimated cost of approximately $120 million, will utilize a combination of non-recourse project-level financing, existing cash reserves, and available liquidity to fund its development.

Key Financial Highlights:

• Capacity: 80 MW with a storage duration of 2 hours (160 MWh)
• Expected Completion: Late 2026
• Anticipated Annual EBITDA Contribution: Approximately $15 million

Christine Healy, President and CEO of Northland Power, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This project will enhance the stability and reliability of Alberta's energy grid, expand our footprint in Canada, and diversify our asset base”[1].

Project Significance

The Jurassic BESS project stands out as a vital component of Alberta's energy landscape, particularly as the province transitions towards more sustainable energy solutions. With the growing demand for renewable energy sources, battery storage systems like Jurassic BESS are essential for integrating intermittent renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, into the grid.

Benefits of the Jurassic Battery Project:

• Grid Stability: By providing reliable backup power, the battery system will help mitigate fluctuations in energy supply.

• Environmental Impact: Aligning with Canada’s commitment toward reducing carbon emissions, the Jurassic BESS project supports the growth of clean energy infrastructure.

• Economic Boost: The construction and operation of the facility are expected to create numerous jobs and stimulate local economic growth.

Competitive Landscape

Northland Power is not new to the battery storage sector. With the successful execution of its Oneida Energy Storage Project, which boasts a capacity of 250 MW, the company has demonstrated its capability in delivering large-scale battery solutions. The success of these projects reflects Northland's strategic positioning within the clean energy market and its commitment to innovation in battery storage technology[3].

Comparison with Other Projects

| Project Name | Location | Capacity (MW) | Storage Duration (MWh) | Status | |-------------------|----------------|----------------|------------------------|---------------------| | Jurassic BESS | Alberta | 80 | 160 | Financing Secured | | Oneida | Ontario | 250 | 1,000 | Nearing Operations | | Other Projects | Various | Varies | Varies | Various Stages |

Strategic Partnerships

Northland Power's expansion into battery storage is complemented by strategic partnerships, which are integral to the project's success. Collaborating with leading technology providers and local governments ensures that the projects such as Jurassic BESS deliver maximum efficiency and compliance with regulatory standards.

Future Prospects

Looking forward, Northland Power is setting the stage for further developments in the renewable energy sector. The Jurassic Battery Energy Storage project is just one part of a broader strategy that includes solar energy initiatives, such as the Jurassic Solar project that consists of a 220 MW solar installation coupled with the battery storage system[2]. This multi-faceted approach aims to provide comprehensive energy solutions to meet Alberta's growing demand for clean energy.

Expansion Plans

Northland Power’s growth trajectory is fueled by:

• Innovative Technologies: Investing in advanced battery technologies to enhance performance and efficiency.

• Market Diversification: Expanding operations beyond Alberta to other provinces and countries where renewable energy demand is rising.

• Community Engagement: Emphasizing local partnerships to fortify community support and enhance the social impact of projects.

Conclusion

The financing of the Jurassic Battery Energy Storage Project by Northland Power marks a pivotal moment in Alberta's energy evolution. With its capability to provide essential energy storage solutions, this project not only enhances grid reliability but also contributes to environmental sustainability and economic growth in the region. Northland Power continues to solidify its position as a leader in the renewable energy sector, paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient energy future in Canada.

As the world shifts towards greener energy alternatives, projects like Jurassic BESS exemplify the critical innovations required to meet energy needs sustainably. Stakeholders, including investors, local communities, and environmental advocates, will be closely monitoring the project's progress as it unfolds over the coming years.

Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting development in Alberta's renewable energy landscape.