HES has just completed a 14 month FIT project on Eden Farms in Meaford Ontario. The 100kW Sharp Solar Array was connected and began delivering kilowatt hours of clean, PV generated electricity to Ontario’s power grid in May.
The project, which is one of the first connected to the grid as part of Ontario’s Green Energy Act, began last spring. Eden Farm applied for a FIT contract in March, was awarded a FIT contract in July, received permission to connect in October, and installation began in November. While winter intervened, little progress was made on the installation until March, when the rooftop work was completed. Then HydroOne completed its work, the system was commissioned and tested, and electricity began to flow in April. In just over 2 weeks, since monitoring began, the system delivered over 11,000kWh to the grid.
The Eden Farm solar project is unique in many ways. It it one of the largest active systems in Canada using Enphase MicroInverters. MicroInverters ensure each of the 526 Sharp Solar panels performs at its best, and if the solar array is partially covered in snow, it still maximizes the output of the rest. The system is also closely monitored, so the owner can watch it on a daily basis from computer or smart phone any where in the world. HES also worked closely with ESA and HydroOne throughout the installation to clarify installation issues.
The owners of Eden Farms have put their roof of to work, creating a 20 year revenue stream for the farm. Their solar investment not only has a nice rate of return, but considered clean energy an ethical investment. HES offered investment security by installing only name brand equipment with 15 and 25 year warranties, backed by leading global brands. HES handled all aspects of the project, from OPA and HydroONE applications to roof truss structural analysis to installation to testing.
Ontario’s Green Energy Act seekes to replace coal fired electricity with clean renewable energy – a laudible goal. Projects like the wind farms in Sarnia and farmers installing solar on their buildings are helping move Ontario towards clean energy. Eden Farm may have led the way in Meaford, but there are lots more opportunities for farms all over Ontario to participate in the FIT program. HES has developed a specialty package for farm buildings, and can help with your project. Contact us at sales@solarforfarms.ca.
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