ACCIONA Energía has thrown its hat into the ring of Canada’s burgeoning wind energy sector, with the commencement of commercial operations at the Forty Mile wind farm in Alberta. This isn’t just another wind farm; it’s a statement, a testament to the company’s ambition and a significant milestone in Canada’s renewable energy landscape.
The Forty Mile wind farm, boasting a capacity of 280MW, is now one of Canada’s top ten largest wind farms. It’s also ACCIONA Energía’s largest wind farm in North America, a title that speaks volumes about the company’s growing footprint in the region. The farm is equipped with 49 Nordex turbines, each with a capacity of 5.7MW and a tower height of 108m. These aren’t just numbers; they represent a significant step forward in Canada’s renewable energy capacity.
But the impact of the Forty Mile wind farm isn’t just about the energy it will produce. It’s about the emissions it will prevent. With an annual reduction of 600,000 metric tons of CO₂, it’s equivalent to the environmental benefit of planting 25 million trees. That’s not just a drop in the bucket; it’s a tidal wave of change.
The economic benefits are equally impressive. During its construction phase, the wind farm generated 200 direct jobs. Now, it will support 25 full-time positions for operations and maintenance. But the benefits don’t stop at job creation. Local economies will see a boost of more than C€85m in property tax revenues throughout the wind farm’s operational lifespan. That’s not just money; it’s investment in public services and enhanced quality of life for local communities.
ACCIONA Energía isn’t just building wind farms; it’s building communities. The company has shown its commitment to social responsibility by providing financial assistance to non-profit organisations. From food banks to women’s shelters, ACCIONA Energía is investing in the people who will benefit from its projects.
This isn’t ACCIONA Energía’s first rodeo. With a two-decade presence in North America, the company has established a significant renewable energy portfolio. From solar and wind to battery energy storage systems, ACCIONA Energía is diversifying its portfolio and driving innovation in the sector.
But ACCIONA Energía isn’t just looking at the present; it’s looking at the future. In April 2025, the company announced a collaboration with BHP to explore the feasibility of a pumped hydro energy storage project at the Mt Arthur Coal mine in New South Wales, Australia. This initiative is in line with BHP’s strategy to responsibly manage the mine’s closure by 2030, coinciding with the end of its economic viability. It’s a bold move, a step towards a sustainable future.
The Forty Mile wind farm isn’t just a wind farm; it’s a symbol of change. It’s a testament to ACCIONA Energía’s commitment to renewable energy, to sustainability, to community development. It’s a challenge to the status quo, a spark for debate, and a catalyst for change in the energy sector. As the wind turns the turbines, it’s not just energy that’s being generated; it’s progress.