The Toronto Renewable Energy Co-operative (TREC) has launched the Our Power program to help homeowners evaluate the solar potential of their roofs. Our Power’s first public outreach will be at the Solar Fair this Sunday, April 18th.
Sponsored by Toronto Hydro and supported by local Councilor Joe Mihevc, the Solar Fair is a free event held at the Artscape Wychwood Barns at 601 Christie St. from 12pm – 4pm. In addition to the Our Power team, there will be eight vendors of solar PV and solar hot water systems available to the public.
Under Ontario’s new Green Energy and Economy Act, the Ontario Power Authority will pay 80.2 cents for every unit of solar electricity produced from a home’s roof - and that price is guaranteed for twenty years. A $20,000 2kW system generates an average annual income of $1,740 for 20 years - a 6.8% return on investment. There is also an option to lease your roof.
The www.ourpower.ca site is rich source for solar information. For a nominal fee individuals can get a personalized online roof assessment. The assessment shows how a solar PV system could fit on your a roof, what income will be generated, and how many carbon emissions will you’ll offset. An Our Power advisor will call homeowners to review their assessment and to answer any questions. When homeowners are ready to make a purchase, the advisor will connect them to a reliable vendor in their area.
The site for the Toronto local of The Media Co-op has been archived and will no longer be updated. Please visit the main Media Co-op website to learn more about the organization.