![\"An](\"https:\/\/canada-info.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/KEJ_solar_aerial2-500x333.jpg\")
Kejimkujik solar array viewed from above. Photo courtesy of Parks Canada<\/p><\/div>\n
Sheppard says the location was chosen after consultation with Mi\u2019kmaq partners.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey were involved in the archaeology around this project. We did that collaboratively,\" said Sheppard. \u201cThey were very supportive of the benefits of this project but because we\u2019re also a national historic site that\u2019s designated so because of the Mi\u2019kmaq cultural landscape, they were also interested in making sure that when you came into the park you didn\u2019t see a big piece of infrastructure.\u201d<\/p>\n
The solar project was funded through an almost $600,000 Government of Canada investment to support greenhouse gas emissions reduction efforts and clean technology.<\/p>\n
Sheppard estimates at the rate the array is producing power, that investment will be paid off in 20 years.<\/p>\n
And perhaps most importantly, over their projected 35-year lifespan, the panels will be responsible for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 3,300 tonnes, the equivalent of taking 1035 cars off the road.<\/p>\n
Sheppard says since the pandemic people have sought connection with the outdoors and it\u2019s important to make that experience as enjoyable and green as possible.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s a direct link between the visitor\u2019s experience here in the campground and the knowledge that their experience is powered entirely by the sun,\u201d said Sheppard. \u201cThat, for us, provides a really neat connection between a visitor understanding their visit in the context of the larger picture, not only of protecting a national park but the work to mitigate against climate change as well, while they\u2019re here.\u201d<\/p>\n