Solar Energy comes from the light and radiant heat of the Sun. Solar is the most plentiful form of energy on the planet, although it is highly diffuse. Solar technologies take advantage this renewable energy source for:
- electricity production using concentrating thermal or photovoltaic technologies;
- space and water heating; and
- space cooling.
Solar energy can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide better air quality for British Columbians. To help accomplish this, the Province has
- Supported the Solar for Schools initiative by funding the installation of photovoltaic equipment on schools in Vernon, Fort Nelson and Greater Victoria.
- Supported the SolarBC initiative, providing a $5 million grant to the BC Sustainable Association to support:
- The installation of solar water heaters on 2,000 homes across the province;
- The creation of Solar Communities;
- The expansion of the Solar for Schools Initiative;
- The creation of a program to bring this clean technology to remote First Nations communities across the province;
- The installation of solar technology on social housing and local government owned buildings such as community and recreation centres.
- Funded the 100,000 Solar Roofs Roadmap Study under which a multi stakeholder committee of solar experts from communities, industry, and government developed recommendations on how the Province could achieve the installation of 100,000 solar roofs by 2020.
Where is it?
Overall, British Columbia enjoys better solar energy resources than world solar leaders Germany and Japan. Solar resources are good in most areas of the province and best in the southern interior.
Benefits of Solar Energy:
Solar can:
- Provide an unlimited supply of energy – every day the earth receives more energy from the sun than we use in a year;
- Provide a good energy resource in most areas of the Province;
- Act as a stand-alone energy source;
- Displace the use of electricity and fossil fuels resulting in a proportional decrease in green house gas emissions.
Challenges:
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Currently, the cost for photovoltaics is high;
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Initial capital costs take years to be recovered;
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Solar is a variable energy resource, providing electricity only when the sun is shining.
Useful Links:
- Solar BC
- Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) was formed to promote the professional and practical use of solar technologies in Canada.
- British Columbia is home to some of Canada’s leading solar companies whose products are in demand throughout the world. You can find a listing of solar companies operating in Canada here.
- BC Building Code
