A large-scale battery energy storage facility developed in partnership with Walpole Island First Nation has officially entered service in the Municipality of Lakeshore, marking a first for renewable energy company Boralex in North America.
Formerly known as the Tilbury Battery Storage Project, the facility has been renamed the Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage project following collaboration with Walpole Island First Nation. The name “Sanjgon,” drawn from the Nishnaabemwin language, reflects traditional storage practices used by families of the Nation.
Boralex inc. announced Jan. 6 that the 80-megawatt, 320-megawatt-hour facility is now commercially commissioned, making it the company’s first operational energy storage site in North America. The project is located in Lakeshore and was developed through a joint approach with Walpole Island First Nation.
“We are pleased to reach this major milestone for the Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage facility and our community. The Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage facility marks a significant step toward a cleaner, more reliable energy future. Walpole Island First Nation values this partnership with Boralex, working together to advance sustainable solutions that benefit our communities for generations to come,” said Leela Thomas, Chief of Walpole Island First Nation.
The facility forms part of Boralex’s broader 2030 Strategy and its expansion into large-scale battery storage. With Sanjgon now operational and the Hagersville Battery Energy Storage Park expected to be commissioned in the coming weeks, Boralex says it will reach 380 megawatts of installed storage capacity in Canada, positioning the company as the country’s largest battery storage operator. Additional projects, including the Oxford storage project, are currently under development and expected to begin construction shortly.
The Sanjgon facility consists of 89 Tesla Megapack 2XL units, providing four hours of continuous full-power delivery to the provincial grid. The project was selected through the Independent Electricity System Operator’s expedited long-term request for proposals process and is intended to support Ontario’s Resource Adequacy Framework by helping meet growing electricity capacity needs while improving grid reliability and resilience.
“The Independent Electricity System Operator’s competitive procurements continue to deliver cost-effective projects that will help keep Ontario’s grid reliable and affordable. The Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage project is an example of how we are working with Indigenous communities, municipalities, private industry and government to build out the province’s electricity system and support Ontario’s economic growth,” said Lesley Gallinger, President and CEO of the Independent Electricity System Operator.
A Community Benefit Agreement between Boralex and the Municipality of Lakeshore will provide $1,000 per megawatt annually for the life of the project to support local initiatives.
“The Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage Facility exemplifies Ontario’s commitment to innovation and energy reliability. This project strengthens our grid, supports economic growth, and reflects the collaborative spirit that drives progress in our region,” said Trevor Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent–Leamington and Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.
Mayor Tracey Bailey said the municipality views the project as a point of pride for the community.
“Hosting the Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage facility is a source of pride for Lakeshore. Our communities are proud to play a role in advancing Ontario’s clean energy future. Projects like this one strengthen our energy infrastructure and deliver long-term benefits for Lakeshore residents and businesses,” Bailey said.
Boralex leadership described the commissioning as a significant milestone for the company’s growth in energy storage.
“The commissioning of the Sanjgon Battery Energy Storage Park marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward a more flexible, resilient and affordable energy system. It’s a concrete step forward in delivering on our 2030 Strategy and create durable value for our shareholders, expanding our presence in storage, and reinforcing our commitment to innovation and community partnerships,” said Patrick Decostre, President and CEO of Boralex.
Robin Deveaux, Executive Vice President and General Manager for North America, said the project reflects a collaborative approach to renewable energy development.
“Sanjgon is a clear demonstration of our ability to deliver high-impact, community-rooted infrastructure. I want to acknowledge the dedication of our teams and the strength of our collaboration with Walpole Island First Nation and the Municipality of Lakeshore. Together, we’ve laid the foundation for a new chapter in Ontario’s renewable energy future—one built on trust, innovation, and shared ambition, and designed to make renewable energy more accessible and affordable for all,” Deveaux said.
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