Proposed West Grey Electricity Storage Facility Map (Image from West Grey Shift presentation)
There’s a proposal to construct a new energy storage facility in southern Grey County.
West Grey council will hear from Ontario-based company Shift Solar this week about its plans for a 100-megawatt battery energy storage system that would sit on about 40 acres of land, just south of Hanover.
The presentation from Shift says some of the benefits from this project could include boosting the local economy by increasing business patronage during construction and long-term maintenance, as well as emission reduction, and conserving fresh water resources as the project will rely on solar power.
The presentation adds West Grey was chosen for this project due to its flat and cleared land, which will result in no new environmental disruptions. A limited amount of residents will be affected, but the facility can be visually concealed.
The presentation says the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has stated municipal support is a mandatory requirement.
Should West Grey provide support, and the IESO award the contract to proceed with the project, Shift can discuss options to benefit West Grey.
West Grey will be receiving this presentation at its meeting on June 20 at 9 a.m.