There’s no denying that solar power is ready to make major inroads into Alberta. Advancements in technology and government incentive programs are making solar panels more accessible than ever. As an Edmonton and Sherwood Park roofing contractor providing solar panel installation, A. Clark Roofing and Siding LP was excited to hear about the new Epcor solar farm that is being planned near the community of Cameron Heights.
The Edmonton Journal recently reported that the proposed solar farm – the first of its kind in the city – will cover a 60-acre land area and have a generation capacity of 12 megawatts. It will be located close to the E.L. Smith Water Treatment plant, and 40% of the energy generated by the farm will be used to run the plant. The rest of the energy generated by the solar farm will be put towards the electricity grid.
The project is currently in the preliminary design stage, and still requires city council rezoning approval, Alberta Utilities Commission approval, and an environmental assessment. Epcor will soon be starting public consultations and hopes to file an application with the province this year. The farm will be funded in part by a utility ratepayer levy designed to be put towards environmental initiatives.
Is Solar Energy Really a Cost-Effective Option in Edmonton?
Edmonton roofers are often met with some widespread misconceptions about solar power, chief among them that Edmonton is not a suitable place for the generation of solar electricity due to its cold climate and northern location. The truth, however, is that cold temperatures do not hinder the operation of solar panels as long as sunlight (even indirect sunlight) is available.
Edmonton gets more than enough sunlight, even over the winter months, to make solar power installation worthwhile. Solar panels that are properly oriented and angled can capture large amounts of solar energy all throughout the year. Epcor plans to install the panels of the solar farm at 33-degree angles and expects that snow cover will only result in a 5% efficiency loss over the winter.
Having solar panels installed by experienced Edmonton roofing companies is a cost-effective option for home and business owners who want to see immediate savings on their energy bills. The initial investment is by no means cheap, but the long-term savings and the increase in property value will easily see a well-maintained solar array paying for itself by the time its operating life is up.
Edmonton Roofing Contractors Providing Solar Panel Installation
If you’re eager to start saving money on your energy bills with solar panels, then A. Clark Roofing and Siding LP is here to help. On top of our Edmonton roof repair services, we also provide solar power installation in Sherwood Park and Edmonton. Roofing companies are leading the way in bringing solar power to homes and businesses across Alberta, and we’re proud to be a leader among them.
If you have any more questions about solar power for your home or business, don’t wait to contact A. Clark Roofing and Siding LP today.