Sq’éwqel Community Solar Project (Seabird Island)

Powering Sq’éwqel’s Future

Riverside Energy Systems was honoured to work with Sq’éwqel, also known as Seabird Island Band, to install grid-connected solar systems on four important community buildings.

Solar arrays were installed on the daycare, Administration Building, Lalme’ Iwesawtexw (Seabird Island Community School) and Cultural Centre. Together, the 476 panels are estimated to generate approximately 199,467 kWh of clean electricity annually.

This multi-building project supports Sq’éwqel’s clean-energy goals while helping reduce the amount of electricity the buildings draw from the grid.

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System Details

Daycare

• Solar modules: 48 panels
• Estimated annual generation: 19,957 kWh

Administration Building

• Solar modules: 100 panels
• Estimated annual generation: 47,630 kWh

Lalme’ Iwesawtexw (Seabird Island Community School)

• Solar modules: 100 panels
• Estimated annual generation: 44,814 kWh

Cultural Centre

• Solar modules: 228 panels
• Estimated annual generation: 87,066 kWh

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Education and Hands-On Learning

The project also created an opportunity for Riverside to work directly with Grade 12 students at Seabird Island Community School.

Students learned about solar panels, renewable energy and the installation process through supervised, hands-on activities with the Riverside team. The experience introduced students to practical skills and provided a closer look at potential careers in the skilled trades and clean-energy industry.

Principal Steve Beier described the project as a valuable opportunity for students to try something new, gain practical experience and understand how solar energy is helping power their school. See video below to hear Steve's words on how benfifical the program was to his students.

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Community Impact

By installing solar across four community buildings, Sq’éwqel is investing in infrastructure that will generate clean electricity for years to come.

The project also demonstrates how renewable-energy installations can support education, skills development and greater community energy independence alongside long-term energy savings.

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Outcome

This project represents more than 476 solar panels. It reflects a shared commitment to clean energy, education and building lasting relationships.

Riverside Energy Systems is proud to support the community-led energy goals of Sq’éwqel and other First Nations throughout British Columbia.



View our INDIGENOUS RECONCILIATION PLAN to learn more about our commitment to building a relationship with First Nations.