Solar Opportunities

In an effort to learn about all of the various options, we had someone from a local solar energy company come to the house. With a south facing roof and all the reno work that is required, we knew that we would be a candidate for solar power. As it turns out, no emphasis is placed on residential solar energy production as it is "simply not worth it" for the scale we would be operating. However, solar hot water is an option. One panel would be sufficient for two to three people (with the option of adding a second) with a second tank required to be installed in the basement where the glycol would be to heat the water coming in from the City source in order to reduce the requirement for gas to be used to heat the water to the required level. Apparently, in the summer months solar could take care of 100% of the required water heating and 30% in the worst winter months.

We are not solar experts but this is what we learned: the panel and parts would have a 20-25 year life with maintenance required (i.e., glycol replacement) every 3 or so years; the pay back period is 12 years with a cost of about $3500 now with all of the rebates already taken off the total; there are no real roof material type limitations (metal or shingle ok); best use of water at the end of the day; the system would not be running all of the time, only when detects 16 degree difference; option for upgrade to on-demand solar (?); tough to do internal run of pipes required but it is an option if we can find a straight-run.

One of the rebates is from the Sustainable Ottawa program 'Solar H2Ottawa.' The program has funding for approximately 250 homes in the National Capital region for the installation of such systems. Visit http://www.sustainableottawa.ca/ for more information.

With so many decisions to make, solar hot water heating is high on our list but at this point not a definite feature of our new house. If we don't go with solar hot water, there is also the tankless water option. Watch for updates.