Canadian Defence Contracts Ameresco to Build 8.9-MW Solar Array at Camp Gagetown
One of the largest domestics bases for the Canadian military will welcome a new 8.9-MW on-site solar project this year.
Ameresco secured the US $18.84 million (C$26M) contract to install the ground-mounted solar energy array at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base (CDSB) Gagetown in Oromocto, New Brunswick. The solar energy is expected to provide about 8,900 MWh of electricity annually, close to 20% of the base’s annual electricity needs.
Ameresco, which has done microgrid work at U.S. bases, will design, engineer, procure, and construct the solar system, integrating it with the base's existing electrical infrastructure. The system is equipped with advanced controls and monitoring technology to optimize performance throughout its lifecycle. The project is set to be completed by June.
“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.”
The project will not only prevent approximately 7,695 metric tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere each year but also contribute to meeting emissions targets in the Defence Climate and Sustainability Strategy 2023-2027 - Canada.ca, while operating at full capacity.
The 5 CDSB Gagetown solar project, which includes incorporation 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 on-site, providing the base with energy security and resilience. Moreover, the project is predicted to save the base approximately $918,004.54 annually in utility costs.
The project is part of Canada’s Federal Buildings Initiative, which plans to improve the energy efficiency and sustainability of federal buildings across the country. The initiative at Gagetown includes more than 200 buildings with a total floor area exceeding 525,000 square meters.
CDSB Gagetown is one of the nation’s largest Department of Defence bases, covering some 420 square miles). It was first built in 1958 and housed units such as the Royal Canadian Regiment and the Black Watch infantry regiment. Military units now based out of Camp Gagetown include the 5th Canadian Division, Combat Training Centre and 4 Engineer Support Regiment, among others.
The Gagetown Solar project work by Ameresco is part of the Government of Canada’s target to acquire and utilize 100% clean electricity for federal facilities by the end of this year.
