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ARTICLE · 11 MARCH 2024

Alberta Introduces New Restrictions On Renewable Power Development As Moratorium Ends

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On February 28, 2024—the day before the expiration of the moratorium on the approval of renewable power projects—the Government of Alberta announced a host of prospective policy...

CanadaEnergy and Natural Resources
Luigi Cusano
Luigi Cusano
Nick Ettinger
Nick Ettinger
Gino Bruni
Gino Bruni
Taylor Campbell
Taylor Campbell
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On February 28, 2024—the day before the expiration of the moratorium on the approval of renewable power projects—the Government of Alberta announced a host of prospective policy and regulatory changes for renewable power development in the province.

What you need to know

  • Agriculture-first approach. Renewable power development will no longer be permitted on Class 1 and Class 2 agricultural lands unless the proponent can demonstrate the ability for agriculture to coexist with the renewable power project and that agricultural land uses will generally be prioritized in the processing of renewable power applications.
  • Buffer zone. A 35-kilometre buffer zone will be implemented around areas designated as "pristine viewscapes", which will preclude wind and potentially other renewable power developments.

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