Solar Microgrid for Bayside Travel Centre

completed

Bayside Development Corporation, a business wholly owned by the Paq’tnkek First Nation, is proposing to design, procure, and install a AC microgrid system that incorporates solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicle (EV) charging systems for the Paq’tnkek Mi’kmaw Nation-owned Bayside Travel Centre. The Bayside Travel Centre currently houses amenities such as a gas bar, convenience store, truckers’ lounge, information centre, and two quick-service restaurants. The project is composed of the following key components: - Rooftop and ground mounted Solar PV Systems totaling 183 kW. - Battery Energy Storage System of 373 kWh. - Two L3 Electric Vehicle Charging Systems. - Microgrid Control System to reduce demand spikes and provide full capacity in advance of outage events. Natural Forces has partnered with Paq’tnkek for this project, and Paq’tnkek First Nation will be the sole owner of the solar panels, the EV charging systems, and the microgrid. Key benefits: - Lifetime GHG reductions: 3,945 tonnes. - Electricity revenue and savings: $59,000 per year. - Models GHG reduction leadership: First microgrid in the province that incorporates three separate technologies to function as a single unit to provide energy services. - Builds capacity and creates employment opportunities for Paq’tnkek community members, other Mi’kmaw community members, and the larger Nova Scotian renewable energy community.