An investment of more than $13 million in infrastructure funding will go towards solar energy generation and sewer separation work in Edmundston, N.B.
The provincial government will contribute more than $4.5 million, the federal government is investing more than $5.4 million and the City of Edmundston is providing more than $3.6 million.
Solar panels will be installed at the city’s Jean-Daigle Centre and work will be done on sewer separation in part of the area.
“The installation of solar panels on the Jean-Daigle Centre is an innovative way for the city to provide power to the centre,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gary Crossman.
“This project, combined with upgrades to the city’s water and wastewater management capacity, demonstrates how they are planning for the future, and our government is pleased to support these important projects.”
The government says the solar panels will produce one megawatt of energy per year, which will operate the centre’s systems and support the city’s energy requirements during peak times.
The sewer project involves replacing the combined sanitary and stormwater system with separate systems on streets on the city’s east side.
“The installation of new solar panels on the Jean-Daigle Centre and sewer separation in East Edmundston will support a clean and sustainable future for residents,” said Madawaska-Restigouche MP René Arseneault.
“Green initiatives like this one will help local economies grow and build more resilient communities across the country.”
Edmundston Mayor Éric Marquis said the city aimed to find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while promoting renewable energy.
“The announcement of this solar panel project completely aligns with this objective,” said Marquis.
“We are very grateful to our provincial and federal partners for their contribution and their constant collaboration, which allows us to take this step.”