The long and complicated attempt by the Drumheller Institution to provide a portion of its own wind power came to an end last week as the windmill that towered over the facility was taken down.
The experiment that began in 2009, with the lofty expectation the turbine would generate about 20 per cent of its power need at the site. From the get-go, it was plagued with problems. In May 2010, it was delayed in commissioning due to concerns over brake linings.
In October 2012, there were issues with the batteries and inverter. To further complicate matters, Lorax, the US contractor that won the bidding process, dissolved before the project was commissioned.
For many years the windmill sat idle.
Last week contractors dismantled the installation.
According to Corrections Service Canada, where cost-effective, salvageable parts from the Drumheller wind turbine that are in good working condition will be shipped to the Dorchester Penitentiary in New Brunswick to be used as spare parts for Dorchester Penitentiary wind turbine. These parts include mechanical and electrical equipment.
Other structural components that have a good recycling potential, such as the metal tower, will be disposed of accordingly. The fiberglass blades and the nacelle of the turbine are not recyclable and will be disposed of as per Federal guidelines on the disposal of assets.
There may be other projects in the future to help the institution lessen its environmental footprint.
“Drumheller Institution is currently conducting an Energy Performance Contract (EPC) through Public Services and Procurement Canada. As part of this process, an Energy Service Company (ESCO) has been hired to identify and implement selected greenhouse gas reduction measures for this facility,” states a release. “Different options are currently under evaluation, such as a limited solar array, the purchase of clean electricity generated from renewable sources, or a combination of these measures.”

Albertans are lining up for vaccines and the uptake in Drumheller appears to be strong.
On February 24, the government began rolling out vaccines for Albertans aged 75 or older. While there were a few hiccups with the initial booking system, seniors have been able to make appointments.
Brent Pedersen was able to receive his vaccine. While his initial appointment was in Brooks, he was able to book locally.
“A lot of my friends were booked out of town, but once we found the number to book it here, I think we all had the opportunity to do it here,” he said.
On March 4 the government announced that bookings for Albertans between the age of 65 and 74 will begin the week of March 15. The AstraZeneca vaccine will be available to Albertans Ages 50-64 on March 10.
For Pedersen, he had no reservations about receiving the vaccine.
“I was prepared to go anywhere. I am not afraid to get a vaccine. Even with the flu, I have always been a proponent,” said Pedersen. “I think if they go through the trouble of getting us vaccines, I think we should take them.”
Booking can be done by going to ahs.ca/covidvaccine, or by calling Health Link at 811.

AHS outlines what to expect at vaccine clinics

•When arriving at the clinic, wait in your car until just before their appointment time.
•Each appointment is booked approximately 10 minutes apart.
•It is anticipated each individual will be at the vaccine clinic for approximately 20-25 minutes which includes the monitoring time after the vaccine is given.
•A waiting room is available for individuals to sit after their vaccination.
•Clinics are wheelchair accessible and staff will be on-hand to assist individuals that require help.
•Each vaccine clinic has a wheelchair-accessible washroom onsite.
•Please bring one piece of identification with you, which could include your Alberta Health Care card, a driver’s license, Social Insurance Number, birth certificate, or passport.
•Please wear clothing that will easily allow access to your upper arm for receiving the immunization.