Greater Sudbury Utilities Photovoltaic Generation Feasibility Study

To minimize energy dollars leaving the community and to substantially reduce local greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the City of Greater Sudbury and Greater Sudbury Utilities will undertake a feasibility study of photovoltaic power generation. The main aim is to climate-test the performance of various panels with the inverters chosen for the project. Information gained will include potential system weaknesses, maintenance problems, peak generation periods, equipment spacing requirements, and actual power generation levels under extreme weather conditions. If successful, the pilot (about 15 per cent of final capacity) will be expanded to full operation (two megawatts) at the end of one year. Not all renewable energy technologies are appropriate for every location, and this test will use full cost accounting — including GHG reductions, site issues related to construction and installation, and accurate generation levels — to determine the most profitable solar panel for the capital project. Baseline studies using the RETScreen renewable energy software program have already been completed, and the site has been chosen for its due south exposure and low environmental impact. At pilot end, the system could be completely disassembled and removed, with few traces left, if necessary. Full project data will be posted for public viewing and made available to educational institutions, with potential for site access by students needing practical experience and for research participation. The data from all project stages could provide guidelines for other municipalities considering similar installation.

(Project description from original funding application)