The renewable energy sector is reshaping the construction landscape across North America and beyond. As one of the key players in this transformative era, PCL Construction continues to demonstrate its leadership by delivering large-scale renewable energy projects and embracing sustainable innovation. With an impressive track record and a forward-thinking approach, the company’s work underscores its commitment to building a cleaner, more sustainable future.
PCL Construction has emerged as a leader in renewable energy, completing nearly 60 solar projects that generate over 4 gigawatts of clean energy—enough to power approximately 500,000 homes annually. This includes notable projects such as the Travers Solar facility in Alberta, Canada. As the largest solar farm in the country, Travers Solar spans over 3,300 acres and offsets more than 472,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year. The project exemplifies PCL’s ability to deliver on massive undertakings with measurable environmental benefits.
In addition to solar, PCL is advancing battery energy storage systems (BESS) to support renewable energy integration into the grid. These systems are critical for addressing energy reliability and ensuring that renewable sources can meet fluctuating demand.
In 2023, PCL secured over $1 billion in contracts for additional solar projects, further cementing its role as a driving force in renewable energy. These projects include large-scale facilities like the Clearview Solar farm in Ohio and the Stubbo Solar installation in New South Wales, Australia. The company’s international reach reflects its capacity to adapt and thrive in diverse energy markets.
To meet the growing demand for renewable energy infrastructure, PCL plans to expand its workforce by 25%. This growth will bolster its ability to take on increasingly complex projects while fostering job creation and supporting local economies.
“This growth will bolster its ability to take on increasingly complex projects while fostering job creation and supporting local economies.”
PCL’s commitment to sustainability extends well beyond its renewable energy portfolio. The company has completed 248 LEED-certified projects, representing a combined value of over $18 billion. These projects range from energy-efficient buildings to advanced water treatment facilities capable of processing more than 20 billion gallons of water daily.
By integrating green building practices across its operations, PCL consistently aims to minimize its environmental footprint. This holistic approach to sustainability reflects its understanding that renewable energy is just one part of a broader solution to environmental challenges.
The rapid expansion of renewable energy infrastructure is fueled by a combination of public policy and private investment. In the United States, the Inflation Reduction Act has provided significant tax incentives for clean energy development, encouraging projects that reduce carbon emissions. Meanwhile, Canada’s Clean Energy Investment Tax Credit supports the deployment of renewable energy systems across the country.
These policies have spurred a wave of investments in solar farms, wind energy, and advanced storage solutions. According to the International Energy Agency, renewables are expected to surpass coal as the world’s largest energy source by 2025. PCL’s work positions the company as a critical player in this global energy transition, ensuring that its projects align with the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
Innovation is a cornerstone of PCL’s success in renewable energy construction. By leveraging advanced technologies, the company has improved the efficiency and accuracy of its projects. For example, PCL uses Building Information Modeling (BIM) to optimize project design and execution, ensuring that materials are used efficiently and construction timelines are met.
PCL also embraces prefabrication and modular construction techniques, which reduce waste and streamline on-site assembly. These methods not only enhance sustainability but also improve safety and reduce costs for clients.
PCL’s renewable energy projects provide tangible examples of its expertise and dedication to sustainability.
Travers Solar Project: Located in Alberta, this 465-megawatt solar farm is one of the largest in North America. The project represents a major step forward for Canada’s renewable energy sector and sets a benchmark for similar initiatives worldwide.
Stubbo Solar Project: In New South Wales, Australia, PCL is building a 400-megawatt solar farm that highlights its ability to deliver complex projects on an international scale. This installation will contribute significantly to Australia’s renewable energy capacity, supporting its transition to a low-carbon economy.
Clearview Solar Project: Situated in Ohio, this 145-megawatt facility demonstrates PCL’s expertise in delivering utility-scale solar installations that benefit both local communities and the environment.
These projects showcase PCL’s ability to meet the demands of renewable energy construction while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
PCL understands that achieving sustainability goals requires more than just advanced technology; it also depends on a skilled and motivated workforce. The company invests heavily in employee training and development, ensuring that its teams are equipped to handle the challenges of modern construction. In addition, PCL prioritizes diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a varied workforce brings new perspectives and ideas to the table. By fostering a culture of collaboration, PCL ensures that its employees are aligned with the company’s mission to build a better future.
Looking to the future, PCL Construction is poised to play an even greater role in renewable energy development. The company’s pipeline of projects for 2024 and beyond reflects its ambitious vision for growth and innovation.
One of the key areas of focus will be expanding its work in battery energy storage systems, which are essential for maximizing the potential of renewable energy sources. Additionally, PCL aims to continue exploring new markets and technologies, ensuring that it remains at the cutting edge of the industry.
As the world transitions to a more sustainable energy landscape, companies like PCL Construction are proving that renewable energy can be a powerful driver of economic growth and environmental stewardship. By combining technical expertise with a steadfast commitment to sustainability, PCL is not just meeting the demands of today—it’s building the foundation for a brighter tomorrow. Through its innovative projects, growing workforce, and dedication to green practices, PCL Construction exemplifies what it means to lead in renewable energy construction. Its work stands as a testament to the transformative potential of sustainable infrastructure in creating a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations.
