The Tilley Solar project, with an installed capacity of 23.6 megawatts, has officially reached the commissioning stage, according to the partners involved in its development. Located in Alberta, this grid-connected solar installation aims to provide stable renewable electricity production while generating long-term economic benefits for Alexander First Nation.
A multi-stakeholder partnership structured around economic interests
The Tilley Solar project was developed through a collaboration between Alexander Business Centre, First Nation Power Development Inc. (FNpower), Concord Green Energy and the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB). This partnership structure grants the Indigenous community shareholder status and long-term access to revenues generated by the facility.
According to technical estimates, the site is expected to avoid the emission of approximately 14,200 tonnes of greenhouse gases annually. The facility was designed for direct integration into Alberta’s main grid, a critical factor in ensuring stable revenue flows and long-term investment recovery.
A model of Indigenous participation in energy production
Alexander First Nation leaders highlighted the importance of this project in their broader economic diversification strategy. The commissioning of the site also marks a shift toward direct Indigenous participation in large-scale energy developments, with equity stakes rather than service-based roles.
FNpower’s management stated that the now-operational infrastructure will deliver stable income while strengthening local economic autonomy. The project promoters see it as a foundation for replicating a co-governance energy development model.
Grid integration and provincial outlook
The Canada Infrastructure Bank provided financial support for the project, stating that Tilley Solar contributes to economic reconciliation and greater inclusion of community-led initiatives in Canada’s energy landscape. Strengthening Alberta’s power grid remains a priority frequently raised by the partners, who call for better alignment between federal and provincial energy policies.
Concord Green Energy, as an industrial partner, indicated further investments are under consideration in the province, provided that the regulatory environment favours optimal renewable integration. The company is calling for more structured planning to enable large-scale deployment.
