Solar energy projects to be installed on 2 civic buildings in Summerland

Cost of installations at Municipal Hall, Arts & Cultural Centre estimated at $52,000

Summerland leads the way in bringing a solar photovoltaic energy generating system to the Okanagan through partnership with Solar Now.

Solar Now is a solar energy initiative funded by the North Growth Foundation, a private Canadian foundation that supports innovative social, environmental and educational charitable projects.

At this week’s meeting, council unanimously supported the recommendation to accept the offer of $25,000 from the North Growth Foundation and to allocate up to $30,000 from the district’s unallocated surplus fund to install a solar photovoltaic system on one or more municipal buildings.

“Through engagement with the Community Energy Association, staff became aware of an initiative taking place in the Kootenays called ‘Solar Now’ which provides matching funds of up to $25,000 to organizations seeking to put solar photovoltaic systems on publicly owned buildings,” Tami Rothery told council.

Rothery is the district’s sustainability and alternative energy co-ordinator.

District staff proposed that Solar Now consider expanding its program to the Okanagan, beginning with Summerland.

“The proposal was well received, and preliminary discussions to work on a collaborative local project ensued,” Rothery said.

The Arts & Cultural Centre and the Municipal Hall were selected as sites for the solar PV systems due to their prominent locations, excellent solar resources and proximity to required charging stations.

The cost of the installations is estimated at $52,000.

The proposed solar PV systems are expected to generate 27,350 kWh annually, which represents a savings of almost $2,600 per year to the district’s electricity costs and will have a payback of approximately 11 years without factoring in price increases, according to Rothery.

Solar PV systems have an expected lifespan of 20-30 years.