ENMAX has increased its commitment to the environment through investment in clean power and alternative energies, including wind and run-of-river. The 114 wind turbines at the McBride Lake wind farm generate enough energy to power 32,500 homes per year and reduce harmful carbon dioxide emissions by 235,000 tonnes annually. ENMAX has also recently completed construction of an 80 MW wind farm – enough to power over 32,000 homes – about 20 km SE of the Town of Taber, Alberta. “We’re making this investment in response to increasing customer demand for cleaner energy,” said Gary Holden, President and CEO, ENMAX Corporation, “We already have the largest green power marketing program in Canada, and this news (of the Taber completion) reinforces our commitment to meet people’s needs for cleaner energy.”

Taber windfarm Q&A

ENMAX has been working collaboratively with Suncor Energy Products Inc. to establish a regional monitoring program for birds and bats in Southern Alberta. ENMAX is also supporting a study being conducted by Dr. Robert Barclay of the University of Calgary in which bat detectors will be installed on the meteorological towers at the Taber wind farm to record data on bat activity in the region. These programs are part of ENMAX’s commitment to environmentally responsible development. Through the research partnerships, we hope to gain a better understanding of the effects of wind turbines on birds and migrating bats.

ENMAX is also expanding into the new run-of-river hydro market. Run-of-river uses the natural flow of a river to produce electricity and has no large-scale dam or reservoir. It is considered green technology because it does not disrupt the surrounding area, produces no emissions, and uses an abundant natural resource. For more information on ENMAX’s projects visit the Run-of-River site.

Greenmax

In Alberta, most of the electricity your home receives is generated by power plants fueled by coal or natural gas. With Greenmax, you can support a more environmentally friendly alternative through a small additional monthly premium on your ENMAX Energy bill. Established in 1998, Greenmax was the first program of its kind in Canada offering customers the opportunity to support wind-generated power. By supporting the generation of renewable energy, you can help to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions released into our atmosphere and preserve the beauty of our planet for generations to come. Visit the Greenmax website to determine how your purchase of wind power can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.