Episode 5

Transforming Alberta’s Orphan Wells

Alberta is facing a growing challenge with over 170,000 abandoned oil wells across the province, creating environmental risks and economic burdens for rural communities. RenuWell Energy Solutions is addressing this issue by converting these orphan well sites into community solar projects that generate clean energy and support rural communities. Keith Hirsche, founder of RenuWell, joins host Bri to explain how this innovative approach works, the positive impacts on Albertan communities, and what it means for Alberta’s renewable energy future.

Key Topics:

  • Understanding orphan wells (01:33) and their environmental and economic impact (05:31)
  • RenuWell’s journey to repurpose orphan wells for solar energy (07:58)
  • Social, economic, and environmental benefits of the RenuWell Project (18:00)
  • The path forward (21:00)

Guest:

Keith Hirsche, Founder of RenuWell Energy Solutions

Resources Mentioned:

The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives. 

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Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary


Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.

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About the Podcast

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What On EARTH Can We Do?
Join us as we chat with Alberta's environmental leaders to unpack environmental topics and figure out what on earth we can do to take action against climate change and protect our environment!

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Alberta Emerald Foundation

The Alberta Emerald Foundation is a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.

Through our educational narratives and celebration of Alberta’s environmental leaders, we’re building a future where all Albertans advance environmental excellence where they live, work, and play