Lethbridge College and its International Wind Energy Academy are partnering with SouthGrow Regional Initiative to expand the development of alternative energy in Southern Alberta communities, and capitalize on the progress.

On Monday, Nov. 14, members of the college and SouthGrow got together to release an official statement.

“This partnership is certainly a good example of collaboration,” said Tracy Edwards, LC president.

Sandra Nelson, board chair of SouthGrow, said renewable energy is on the plate of every council.

This partnership will help raise awareness about renewable energy, diversify communities, and bring money into the region.

“SouthGrow is in a region well positioned for economic diversification, and thanks to our partnership with Lethbridge College, completing this renewable opportunity assessment will ensure each community is ready to act on developments that want to invest,” said Nelson.

Twenty-two communities that are partnered with SouthGrow will have a Community Renewable Energy program conducted by a team from the college’s wind energy academy.

The goal of the assessments is to help rural communities understand their opportunities in the field of alternative and renewable energy.

This partnership isn’t the college’s first tie to renewable energy programs in rural communities. It is also connected to the region by offering courses and programs in these communities as well as through video conferencing.