AUC consultation with municipalities on proposed standardized setbacks for renewable infrastructure

In February 2024, the Minister of Affordability and Utilities requested that the Alberta Utilities

Commission (AUC) pursue standardized setbacks for renewable infrastructure in the province.

In response, the AUC consulted on appropriate setbacks from residences and other important

infrastructure as part of the Rule 007: Facility Applications review. The feedback received was

wide-ranging and the new Rule 007 does not include standard setback distance requirements.

The AUC is proceeding with a targeted consultation with municipalities specifically on setbacks

with a goal to collaboratively consider default setback standards for renewable projects.

The AUC will be hosting a virtual open house on April 24 from 11 a.m. to noon to give municipalities an opportunity to learn more about the proposed requirements, ask questions and

share their feedback. To participate in the session, the AUC asks municipalities to:

1. Register to participate by April 23.

2. Review the Proposed standardized setback requirements document ahead of the

session.

3. Oral comments may be given at this open house.

4. Individuals who provide feedback are required to provide a contact address or telephone

number.

Written feedback may also be provided by filling out the Comment matrix template and

emailing it to engage@auc.ab.ca. The deadline to submit feedback is May 1, 2026.

The standardized setbacks are not designed for the unique context of First Nations reserves or

other federal lands. Projects that are proposed on or within the Rule 007 notification radiuses of

First Nations reserves or other federal lands will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. As the

standardized setbacks are not intended for on-reserve projects, the Commission does not plan to consult on this issue.

Questions about the consultation process may be directed to engage@auc.ab.ca.

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Alberta Utilities Commission