Governments of Canada and Alberta Create Jobs, Build Communities

May 29, 2009

Strathcona County - Residents of Strathcona County and the Capital region will benefit from joint federal and provincial funding to build a new biogas electricity plant announced today by Leon Benoit, MP and MLA Dave Quest. This project is just one example of the commitment of both governments to strengthen, the economy create jobs and improving the quality of life for its residents. 

“This project will enhance local facilities and services and create local jobs, at a time when the need for economic stimulus is greatest,” stated Benoit. “Furthermore, this money is made available at a time when costs are lower and people are there to do the job.”

The governments of Canada and Alberta will each invest up to $1,043,000.00 in the project. The Alberta Capital Region Wastewater Commission will contribute the balance of the total eligible project cost of up to $3,129,000.00.

“I am pleased to see such an innovative and responsible project take shape in Strathcona County. This funding will allow for the recovery of an energy product that would otherwise go unused, which is both economically sensible and environmentally friendly” said Dave Quest, MLA for Strathcona.
"Strathcona County was pleased to help facilitate this project by allowing the Alberta Capital Region Wastewater Commission to access this funding for an important regional initiative," said Mayor Cathy Olesen.

 “On behalf of the ACRWC, we look forward to the effective and efficient use of plant produced bio gas, to produce electricity and heat, to be utilized in the treatment of wastewater from our municipalities,”  stated Pat Brennen, Chairman of the Board, ACRWC (Alberta Capital Region Wastewater Commission)
This project is one of more than 73 across the province that will get underway quickly, thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of more than $227 million announced on May 21. The governments of Canada and Alberta have taken steps to advance projects and flow money faster for targeted infrastructure projects in Alberta communities in the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.

For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca.