Alberta’s New Code of Practice: What Solar and Wind Developers Need to Know

By Shasta Kadonaga, Director of Renewable Energy, Solas Energy

On May 31, 2025, the Government of Alberta released the Code of Practice for Solar and Wind Renewable Energy Operations (CoP). This new Code of Practice builds upon the existing Conservation and Reclamation Directive for Renewable Energy Operations (C&R Directive) released in 2018. However, this new Code of Practice includes formalizing reclamation financial security, strengthening reporting obligations, and new compliance measures for solar and wind technologies.

Who Does the Code of Practice Apply To?

Similarly to the execution of the C&R Directive, the CoP applies to all existing and proposed wind and solar operations. The existing operations must register by January 1, 2027, and any new projects must register with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (AEPA) before any ground disturbance occurs.

Key Requirements for Renewable Energy Operators

The requirements outlined in the CoP include a conservation and reclamation report including a security estimate completed by a third party, spatial site plans, declaration if security is provided to the landowner, or financial security arrangements with AEPA.

Reclamation Security Options

The CoP provides operators and developers two options for reclamation security. The first option is to provide the security to AEPA and fulfill the reporting requirements. The second option is maintaining security through the private lease agreements with the host landowners. The latter option has been the industry standard for some time, and most developers and owners will continue to use this option, but with additional reporting requirements.

Role of the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC)

New and existing projects will need to file revised security estimates with the AUC so that the AUC can deem the security reasonable for the project. It is unclear at this time what the process for updating the AUC will be for existing projects.

Professional Certification Requirements

Under Alberta’s Code of Practice, certain components of both the registration application and the reclamation certificate application must be prepared or certified by a qualified professional. A qualified professional must be a member in good standing with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA). Solas Energy is a registered APEGA member in good standing and is authorized to provide professional sign-off and affix a professional seal to reclamation certificate applications.

How Solas Energy Can Help

As all renewable energy projects in Alberta require these new reports and regular reporting, Solas Energy is well-positioned in the industry to provide these reports for solar and wind projects across the province. Our extensive experience and disciplined approach create a standardized, quick report process. Please reach out to Adrienne at
amcgarrigle@solasenergy.com if you are interested in learning more.

#AlbertaEnergy #EnergyPolicy #SustainabilityRegulations #CleanEnergyCanada #EnergyCompliance