The existing power plant at the hospital relies on equipment and infrastructure built in the 1960s. More than 50 years later, it requires updated technology to supply reliable power for the facility.

“This upgrade to the Foothills hospital is long overdue. By making this improvement now, Alberta’s government is putting patient care first. This upgrade also means that the Calgary Cancer Centre will have access to the power it needs when it is scheduled to open in 2023.  And, we are doing all this while getting almost 300 Albertans back to work when they need it most.”

Prasad Panda, Minister of Infrastructure

“Improving infrastructure in one of Alberta’s busiest hospitals ensures patient care won’t be impacted by a power outage. Albertans deserve the best health-care system in the world, and Alberta’s government is spending tax dollars to deliver. This is another important step we’re taking.”

Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health

Alberta’s Recovery Plan is creating immediate jobs, including the 291 construction and construction-related jobs for this project.

Construction will get underway this fall and is scheduled for completion in mid-2023.

All phases of construction are closely coordinated with hospital staff to ensure public safety and to minimize impact on the delivery of health services and programs on the Foothills Medical Centre campus.

Project facts

  • The new co-gen facility will be powered by Alberta’s clean-burning natural gas.
  • Expanding the steam-generating capacity at the medical centre’s power plant is necessary to meet Alberta Building Code requirements.

Alberta's Recovery Plan is a bold, ambitious long-term strategy to build, diversify, and create tens of thousands of jobs now. By building schools, roads and other core infrastructure we are benefiting our communities. By diversifying our economy and attracting investment with Canada’s most competitive tax environment, we are putting Alberta on a path for a generation of growth.

Quick facts

  • This project is part of the more than $10 billion infrastructure spending announced as part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan.
  • This spending includes:
    • $6.9 billion Budget 2020 capital spending
    • $980 million accelerated for Capital Maintenance and Renewal
    • $200 million for Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program and water infrastructure projects
    • $600 million in strategic infrastructure projects, $500 million in municipal infrastructure
    • $1.5 billion for Keystone XL
Alberta's Recovery Plan