GHG Emissions, Solar  -  February 13, 2025

Canada's Gagetown Base Deploys Solar

The 5th Canadian Division Support Base (CDSB) in Oromocto, New Brunswick, in Canada will deploy a large scale solar project that represents a step toward supporting the Government of Canada’s commitment to procure 100% clean electricity for federal facilities by 2025.

The project was awarded to Ameresco, Inc., an energy solutions provider.

The Gagetown Solar Project is a CAD $26.7 million initiative and is set to deliver an 8.9-MWdc/7.35-MWac ground-mounted solar energy system designed to provide approximately 8,900 MWh of electricity annually to the base. It is expected to generate around 20% of the base’s electricity needs, significantly contributing to the Department of National Defense’s efforts to lower GHG emissions. 

When the project is running at full capacity, it will prevent approximately 7,695 metric tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere each year and contribute to meeting emissions targets in the Defense Climate and Sustainability Strategy 2023-2027.

The 5-CDSB Gagetown solar project, which includes the placement of 14,496 solar panels across the base, will be operated and maintained by Ameresco under a 25-year contract. The energy generated will be used entirely on-site, providing the base with long-term energy security and resilience. In addition to reducing emissions, the project is expected to save the base approximately CAD $1.3 million annually in utility costs.

The project — set to be completed by June 2025 — is part of Canada’s Federal Buildings Initiative, which seeks to improve the energy efficiency and sustainability of federal buildings across the country. The size of the base encompasses over 200 buildings with a total floor area exceeding 525,000 square meters.

“We’re proud to partner with the Department of National Defence on this important project,” said Bob McCullough, President of Ameresco Canada, in a statement. “This solar energy solution is more than about powering Gagetown today — it’s about creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for Canada. By investing in renewable energy, we’re helping the country move closer to its long-term sustainability goals while delivering reliable, cost-effective power for years to come.”

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