In the rapidly evolving field of wind energy, solar energy and energy storage, new innovations are constantly being included in construction and installation. Once the project planning and siting protocols are completed, and all the appropriate permits, contracts, and agreements are in place, then construction and installation begins, as the second phase in the life cycle of our three technologies.
Today’s construction projects continue to push the limits of physical scale and sophistication. Wind turbine components can be spotted moving down our highways on trailers that exceed the length of a football field, while large, new solar arrays are being linked together to provide power for entire communities.
New energy-storage facilities are popping up in a range of locations, including on-site with wind and solar generators. Clearly, there are synergies between our wind, solar, and energy-storage technologies at every stage of the lifecycle, including construction.
Smart grids, electric-vehicle charging stations, network-resilience initiatives, and many more cutting-edge grid transformations are also taking place in Canada, taking advantage of the new wind, solar and energy storage technologies that are being constructed from coast to coast to coast.
Across Canada, skilled construction and installation crews are working hard on the safe and efficient deployment of these energy-generation and storage technologies, supported by technical specialists and innovative management supports across the supply chain.
Indeed, Canada’s supply chain is a critical component to every new build, whether it is a small project of a few kilowatts, or a large installation with hundreds of megawatts. Getting the right parts for a good price on schedule employs logistical expertise and an international network. CanREA is proud to note that many high-quality renewable energy components are made right here in Canada.
What’s more, Canadian construction teams provide expert services to build it all, from some of the world’s largest onshore wind turbines, to some of the most advanced solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. All of it providing low-cost, emissions-free electricity to homeowners, municipalities and businesses in Canadian communities.
Members of the Canadian Renewable Energy Association aim to match—and exceed—the construction and installation standards and regulations in place for each jurisdiction.
Knowing that safety is always at the core of construction and installation activities, CanREA works actively with our members to develop resources and share expertise to keep everyone safe. For example, you can check out our “Best Practices for Mobile Crane Safety in Wind Energy Operations” here.
Explore all the content in the “Life Cycle” section of the website to learn more about the four phases of the life cycle of our technologies: Phase 1: Development. Phase 2: Construction and Installation. Phase 3: Operations and Maintenance. Phase 4: Repowering and Decommissioning.