Overview
Castle River is an operational onshore wind farm in Alberta, Canada, owned by Vision Quest (TransAlta). With a capacity of 39.5 MW, it contributes to the province's renewable energy portfolio.
Castle River is an onshore wind farm located in Alberta, Canada, owned and operated by Vision Quest (TransAlta). The facility has a capacity of 39.5 megawatts, positioning it as a medium-scale wind energy project within the region. It is currently operational and plays a role in diversifying Alberta's energy mix. The wind farm utilizes modern wind turbine technology to convert wind energy into electricity. Alberta's renewable energy sector operates under provincial policies such as the Renewable Electricity Act, which aims to increase renewable generation. The facility benefits from Canada's federal investment tax credits for clean energy and provincial renewable energy targets. Castle River contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based power. Its location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains provides consistent wind resources, supporting grid stability and local energy needs. The project also aligns with Canada's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Environmental context
The Castle River wind farm is situated in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Alberta, an area characterized by consistent wind patterns ideal for wind energy generation. The region's ecological context includes mixed grasslands and montane forests, which support wildlife such as birds and bats. Wind farms in this area must manage potential impacts on avian species through careful siting and operational mitigation measures. The facility's relatively modest scale helps minimize land-use footprint while contributing to regional renewable energy capacity.
Frequently asked questions
Castle River is located in Alberta, Canada, in the Rocky Mountain foothills near the town of Pincher Creek.
The Castle River wind farm is owned by Vision Quest, a subsidiary of TransAlta Corporation.
The Castle River wind farm has a capacity of 39.5 megawatts, making it a medium-scale wind energy facility.
Wind energy in Alberta is governed by the Renewable Electricity Act and the Alberta Electric System Operator's rules, which support renewable generation through competitive procurement and grid integration.
Castle River helps Alberta diversify its energy mix and reduce emissions, supporting Canada's goal of achieving 90% non-emitting electricity by 2030 and net-zero by 2050.