Ontario’s Leader in Solar Power Solutions
What is a kilowatt (kW)? Kilowatt hour (kWh)?What is solar photovoltaic (PV)?
What is a feed-in-tariff (FIT)?What are the goals of the OPA FIT program?Who can participate in the FIT/microFIT program?How is the microFIT program different from the FIT program?Is there a penalty for cancelling the FIT/microFIT contract?When do I receive a FIT/microFIT contract?What if I sell my house while under a FIT/microFIT contract?How are FIT/microFIT payments calculated?How am I paid for the power I generate?What happens once the FIT/microFIT contract expires?If I own more than one property, are they all eligible to receive contract?What is Domestic Content?What is a Green Electricity Certificate (GEC) or Renewable Energy Credit (REC) and how do I get one?Is solar power limited to rooftops?
Are there any special requirements for roofing?Do I need to apply for any building permits?How will solar panels affect the lifespan of my roof?How are the solar panels attached? Will they be drilling any holes in my roof?Would I be able to perform the installations of the solar power system or PV panels myself?Do I require special insurance to cover my solar power system?What are my options if my roof is not suitable for solar panels?Can I add more panels to my current solar power system?
What are fixed, single-axis and dual-axis tracking systems?What is the difference between a passive tracking system and an active tracking system?
What is the approximate cost of a solar power system?Will GST apply to my income from the solar panels?Will this affect my property tax?How will my solar power system affect the value of my property?
Isn’t Ontario too far north/too cold to generate solar power?Will snow be an issue for my panels?Are large amounts of wind a problem?Where are the best places to install my solar power system?Is my solar power system recyclable?What is the lifespan of my solar panels?
What is a kilowatt (kW)? Kilowatt hour (kWh)?This equation refers to a unit of energy. A W (watt) refers to
a unit of power while a K (kilo) is 1000 x that unit. A kWh is simply
referring to the number of kilowatt’s generated in one hour. For
example a 100 Watt light left on for 10 hours would consume 1kWh, that
is, 100 Watts x 10 hours = 1,000 Watt hours = 1kWh.
What is solar photovoltaic (PV)?Solar cells, also called photovoltaic (PV) cells, convert sunlight directly into electricity.
Solar
panels used to power homes and businesses are typically made from solar
cells combined into modules. The panels are mounted at a fixed angle
facing south, or they can be mounted on a tracking device that follows
the sun, allowing them to capture the most sunlight. Many solar panels
combined together to create one system is called a solar array.
Solar photovoltaic cells involve some of the most exciting new
technology available. These cells take the sun’s direct rays, the most
readily available renewable source, and turn them into energy. When a
photon of light hits the silicon on your solar panel, electrical energy
is released in the form of an electron. These electrons are then
manipulated to result in an electrical charge. It’s a much more
efficient process than solar thermal energy, because converting heat
energy to electricity is quite complex.
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What is a feed-in-tariff (FIT)?A feed-in-tariff (FIT or FiT) is a commitment by a government
or utility to purchase electricity generated by renewable energy sources
at a fixed price, guaranteed over a number of years. For example, the
Ontario Power Authority’s (OPA) microFIT program offers up to 80.2 ¢/kWh
for rooftop solar power systems, guaranteed for twenty years. It
encourages renewable energy generation, diversifies energy sources,
strengthens energy independence, and boosts the green economy. To learn
more,
click here.
What are the goals of the OPA FIT program?The FIT program, involving solar projects over 10 kW, is
designed to encourage the use of renewable energy among large buildings,
farms, businesses and any other locations where it may have otherwise
been overlooked. Factors which may have originally hindered
development, such as costs, will be turned into a profit as the program
provides a significant return on investment, and allows for the contract
participant to pay back the system as well as achieve monetary gain.
The overall goals of FIT include:
- Phase out coal-fired electricity by Ontario generation by 2014
- Increase economic activity and the development of renewable energy technologies
- Create over 50,000 green jobs
- Turn Ontario into a world leader for renewable energy
Who can participate in the FIT/microFIT program?The FIT/microFIT Program is available to solar power projects
of most sizes in Ontario. Additions to existing facilities (incremental
projects) may be eligible, but please contact us for details.
How is the microFIT program different from the FIT program?The primary difference between the two programs is the size of the solar power system.
- microFIT: 10 kW or less
- FIT: 10 kW or greater, and a maximum size may apply for certain systems
Is there a penalty for cancelling the FIT/microFIT contract?No, a customer may choose to cancel their contract without
enduring any fees. The OPA will require 30 days notice for any
cancellations. However, it should be noted that if a homeowner cancels
their connection agreement with the distribution company the FIT
contract will also be cancelled.
When do I receive a FIT/microFIT contract?Grasshopper Solar will apply for your FIT/microFIT contract on
your behalf while developing your solar power project. It will be
offered to you once the application has been approved by the OPA.
What if I sell my house while under a FIT/microFIT contract?There are several options when selling your home:
- We help you transfer your FIT/microFIT contract to the
home buyer, who will own the system, the contract and receive payments
for the electricity the system generates.
- We can help you cancel your FIT/microFIT contract, and
move and re-install your solar panels at another location. We would
then apply for a new FIT/microFIT contract so you can receive payments.
Your solar power system – and the FIT/microFIT contract – is
valuable. Grasshopper Solar can help you and your agent determine the
added value that your solar power system and FIT/microFIT contract gives
your home when you sell.
How are FIT/microFIT payments calculated?The homeowner will be compensated for all electricity generated
by their solar power system. The exact payments are calculated based
on the contract amount (ex: 80.2 ¢/kWh for rooftop microFIT) multiplied
by the number of kilowatt hours (kWh) that is produced.
How am I paid for the power I generate?You will be paid by directly by your current Local Distribution
Company (LDC) for all electricity generated by your solar power system,
corresponding with your existing hydro billing cycle dates.
What happens once the FIT/microFIT contract expires?Solar panels are built to last. Despite the fact that the
contract will end after twenty years, your panels will continue
producing energy for years beyond that expiration. Your options at that
time depend on the situation in Ontario. Options may include
continuing to sell the electricity to the grid, or connecting the system
to your home so you can directly use the electricity it generates to
and save hundreds if not thousands on your energy bill.
If I own more than one property, are they all eligible to receive contract?Yes, owners of multiple properties can obtain several FIT contracts.
What is Domestic Content?In order to be awarded a FIT contract, the Ontario Power
Authority (OPA) requires a certain percentage of the system components
to be sourced within Ontario:
- Solar PV projects: 50% on or before Dec 21, 2010 and 60% after
- Solar PV microFIT: 40% on or before Dec 31, 2010 and 60% after
Grasshopper Solar proudly meets and exceeds OPA’s domestic content requirements.
What is a Green Electricity Certificate (GEC) or Renewable Energy Credit (REC) and how do I get one?A Green Electricity Certificate (GEC) (also known as a
Renewable Energy Certificate or REC) is created when a megawatt hour
(MWh) of electricity is produced from a certified low-impact renewable
energy source. These are then tradable in certain green marketplaces so
individuals, companies and industries can offset their carbon
emissions.
FIT contract holders usually do not qualify for a GEC or REC
due to the size of the project, and as they are selling their
electricity to the Ontario Power Authority (OPA). The US Environmental
Protection Agency provides a good overview of GECs and RECs on their
website: www.epa.gov/greenpower/gpmarket/rec.htm.
Is solar power limited to rooftops?No, we install ground mounted systems as well: fixed mount (pole mount or rack mount), single and dual axis trackers.
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Are there any special requirements for roofing?The optimum location is a generally south-facing roof in good
condition, free of any shadows from trees or other obstructions during
the sunniest portion of the day in both summer and winter. Roof objects
such as dormers, chimneys and skylights may reduce the size of system
that can be installed. Grasshopper Solar can do a feasibility study to
determine where on your property is the most optimum location for your
system.
Do I need to apply for any building permits?Grasshopper Solar will make sure that your solar power system
is in compliance with any zoning by-laws and building code requirements,
including applying for local building permits.
How will solar panels affect the lifespan of my roof?Despite many buyers’ concerns, solar panels actually work to
protect your roofing material from damage, therefore increasing its
longevity.
How are the solar panels attached? Will they be drilling any holes in my roof?We do make holes when mounting a flush roof mount system and in
some flat roof scenarios. However, flashing is applied and carefully
sealed to prevent any leakage.
Would I be able to perform the installations of the solar power system or PV panels myself?No, to ensure safety and proper installation, it is important
that the work is performed by certified and experienced contractors.
Any new wiring in your home, including the addition of solar panels,
need to pass an inspection by the Electrical Safety Authority, which we
arrange.
Do I require special insurance to cover my solar power system?It is possible that your insurance company will require
additional coverage for a solar power project on your property. We can
help you contact your provider to assess if this is applicable.
What are my options if my roof is not suitable for solar panels?If your roof is not suitable, we can work with you to find an
appropriate ground mounted system. We install fixed, single-axis and
dual-axis tracker systems. (See below.)
Can I add more panels to my current solar power system?Yes, we can help you expand your system and still be eligible
for the FIT/microFIT program, through what is called an incremental
project.
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What are fixed, single-axis and dual-axis tracking systems?These are different mounts for your solar panels.
Fixed: the panels remain in a fixed position, determined as the optimal angle for sun exposure.
Single-axis: the panels rotate either up and down, or side to side to capture the sun as it moves across the sky.
Dual-axis: the panels rotate both up and down and side
to side, capturing the most sunlight possible. Dual-axis trackers can
generate approximately 20% more energy than single-axis trackers.
What is the difference between a passive tracking system and an active tracking system?An active tracking system is kind of ground mounted system that
actively moves to track the sun’s position throughout the day with the
use of special optic sensors. This ensures that the panels achieve the
maximum amount of energy generation. A passive tracking system uses the
sun’s heat to move a liquid inside the panel from side to side,
physically moving the device towards the area of optimum sunlight.
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What is the approximate cost of a solar power system?The cost varies depending on the type and size of the project. Please see our
GS SeriesTM specifications for system costs, revenues, and return on investment.
Will GST apply to my income from the solar panels?No, you are only charged GST if you are earning $30,000 or more a year in a business venture.
Will this affect my property tax?Currently, solar panels do not influence property tax.
How will my solar power system affect the value of my property?Our
GS SeriesTM
solar power systems – and the FIT/microFIT contract – increase your
property’s market value. When it comes to resale, property owners often
discover they can sell at a premium. As well, the cost of your system
can be depreciated to zero in order to reduce the amount of taxes you
are paying for your solar income.
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Isn’t Ontario too far north/too cold to generate solar power?No, Ontario has more annual hours of solar radiation than
Germany and Tokyo, which are both leaders in the solar energy field.
Some interesting facts about solar power in Ontario:
- Panels can generate more energy on cold sunny days than hot sunny days, as they become less effective in hotter temperatures.
- The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) reports that Ontario ranks higher for solar potential than Florida or Texas.
- Two studies conducted by the Queen’s University Applied
Sustainability Research Group in Kingston, Ontario found that solar
power in southeastern Ontario has the potential to produce almost the
same amount of power as all nuclear reactors in the United States.
Will snow be an issue for my panels?No, most of the snow that accumulates on your panels will melt
off. Panels are often around 16 degrees Celsius hotter than the outdoor
temperature.
Are large amounts of wind a problem?No, windy weather conditions are taken into consideration with the design of the solar panels.
Where are the best places to install my solar power system?The optimum location is a generally south-facing roof in good
condition, free of any shadows from trees or other obstructions during
the sunniest portion of the day in both summer and winter. Roof objects
such as dormers, chimneys and skylights may reduce the size of system
that can be installed.
Grasshopper Solar can do a comprehensive analysis to determine
where on your property is the most optimum location for your system.
Is my solar power system recyclable?Yes, programs exist to recycle your solar power system.
What is the lifespan of my solar panels?Solar panels are built to last. Many of the first solar panels
created in the 1950’s are still functioning and generating energy.
After 20 years of operation and past the expiry of your microFIT
contract, your solar panels should still be running at about 80% of
their original efficiency. Proper care, such as making sure that the
panels aren’t covered in dirt or leaves, will ensure a long lifespan for
your solar power system.
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