Proposed Changes to AUC Rule 007: What You Need to Know
April 22, 2025
The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) has released a draft version of its updated Rule 007, which outlines the processes for facility applications related to power plants, energy storage facilities, transmission lines, and other infrastructure projects. These changes, open for public feedback until May 23, 2025, introduce several revisions that could affect project planning and approvals. This post explores the key proposed changes to Rule 007.
Key takeaways
Enhanced municipal engagement and feedback processes.
Visual impact assessments with required simulations.
Agricultural impact assessments for wind and solar projects on high-quality agricultural land.
Mandatory reclamation security for all power plant and energy storage projects
Five-year construction deadlines for power plants and energy storage projects with limited extensions.
Municipal feedback and engagement
The revised Rule 007 introduces additional municipal land use requirements using an engagement form for power plants, hydro developments, and energy storage facilities. This change aims to provide municipalities with the opportunity to review and offer input on projects, particularly in relation to local land use policies and planning documents.
These new requirements may add a layer of complexity to the application process. Applicants will need to ensure they effectively engage with municipalities and address any concerns raised regarding land use and zoning. It’s important for project planners to anticipate that municipalities will be actively involved in reviewing projects, which could influence project timelines and require adjustments to project plans.
Visual impact assessments
The AUC is proposing more structured visual impact assessments for power plants located within designated visual impact zones. No wind power projects applications will be accepted if located in a buffer zone. The revised rule includes specific requirements for visual simulations from key vantage points and a more detailed discussion of mitigation measures.
This change will necessitate more detailed planning and assessment. Developers will need to provide visual simulations showing the potential effects of their projects on the surrounding environment, including how these impacts can be minimized or mitigated.
Agricultural land use and impact assessments
New provisions in draft Rule 007 require more detailed agricultural impact assessments for wind and solar projects situated on high-quality agricultural land. This includes evaluating soil quality, potential effects on agricultural activities, and strategies for co-locating agricultural use with renewable energy projects like wind and solar.
Projects located on agricultural land will need to show how they will minimize disruptions to farming activities and, where possible, integrate agricultural operations with energy generation.
Reclamation security
The draft rule introduces mandatory reclamation security for all power plant and energy storage projects, requiring developers to outline the funds set aside for decommissioning and site restoration. This is to provide reassurance that there is financial backing for the eventual reclamation of projects once they reach the end of their operational life.
Construction deadlines and extensions
The draft revisions introduce a five-year construction period for all types of power plants and energy storage facilities. If construction is not completed within this period, proponents must submit a new application. Extensions to this period will only be granted in exceptional circumstances, such as minor delays after substantial completion.
This change sets clearer expectations regarding project timelines. While it provides a more definitive timeframe for project completion, it also removes the flexibility that was previously available for construction.
Shadow flicker and solar glare assessments
As part of the revised Rule 007, there are now defined limits for shadow flicker in wind power projects and solar glare in solar power plants. These limits specify acceptable durations for these effects and outline the need for mitigation strategies if the thresholds are exceeded.
Projects that are likely to cause significant shadow flicker or glare must now plan for these impacts early in the design phase and provide strategies for reducing or eliminating these effects.
Energy storage safety and emergency response
New safety requirements for energy storage facilities, particularly those involving battery storage, have also been proposed. Applicants will need to provide a detailed emergency response plan, outlining the specific risks associated with a battery storage project and the measures in place to manage those risks.
This confirms that energy storage projects not only meet operational standards but are also prepared for emergencies related to safety and environmental concerns.
Indigenous Consultation
Applicants will be required to identify if federal consultation with Indigenous groups is necessary and include these groups in their participant involvement programs. Additionally, if the project could offer benefits to Indigenous communities, these benefits must be clearly identified.
Transmission and Gas Pipeline Projects
The proposed changes to the requirements for Transmission and Gas Pipeline projects are less comprehensive; however, applicants will need to ensure they are meeting the revised requirements.
Conclusion
The proposed revisions could have important implications for the way projects are planned, assessed, and approved. Project proponents will need to adjust their planning and consultation processes to comply with the new requirements.
Interested in how Maskwa can help your project prepare for these changes? Get in touch.
Explore how we can help
We are committed to providing our clients with unique and practical planning, permitting, and environmental solutions.