Alternative Energy through a Solar Power Pilot Program
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector
Energy
Project value$33,000
Project Type
Pilot Project
Sub Sector
Renewable Energy Generation – Solar
Grant amount$15,000
Program type
GMF
Municipality
City of Waterloo, ON
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
121,436
Project timeline
2002 - 2011
Project number
2804
Description
The City of Waterloo will pursue a study to evaluate the potential for solar–power systems at three City–operatedfacilities. The feasibility study will assess the specific economic costs and technical feasibility of augmenting conventionathermal and electrical power supplies at facilities such as sports arenas, administrative buildings and adult recreationcentres. It will confirm:·the technical viability of small to medium–sized solar power systems;·potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions; and·specific implementation costs and requirements.Implementing solar technologies at municipal facilities is a challenge because of the high capital costs. In addition, olderbuildings were not designed to accommodate photovoltaic arrays and passive solar glass panels. This study willovercome these challenges by demonstrating the potential cost payback and that significant improvements in energyconservation and greenhouse gas emissions can be achieved at existing facilities with the appropriate evaluation andplanning.
Applicant
City of Waterloo, ON