Canadian Solar Energy Preps for Net Metering

When Vern Sherwood received a call from a customer wanting solar power installed at a house in downtown Toronto, he had no idea that the project would turn out to be one of the most unique he has ever worked on.

Mississauga, Ontario, Canada – December 18, 2003 [SolarAccess.com] Sherwood, owner of Excess Energy of Mississauga, Ontario, arrived at the site to find a 120 year-old house near Toronto’s landmark CN Tower and a homeowner who wanted to install a solar power system to generate his own electricity. Sherwood recommended a 1320 watt solar array and a Xantrex SW 5548 Inverter/Charger, which converts solar power to household power and can be connected to the utility grid. Grid-connect inverter systems have the ability to send electricity created by solar panels back to the utility grid. If the solar array produces more power than is being used, the excess is sent back to the utility company and the homeowner’s energy bill is credited. This method of exchanging power is called net metering and is widely used in the United States, Germany, Japan, Switzerland and elsewhere. It is not currently used in Canada. “I believe this is the first residential grid-tie, net metering capable solar power installation in Toronto and it’s right smack downtown,” said Sherwood. “Although net-metering is not in effect in Ontario, we wanted to make sure the homeowner had the option when the time comes.” By connecting the solar system to the utility grid, Sherwood also ensured that supplementary power is automatically available when the solar system isn’t producing enough power for the household. The Toronto home is three stories tall at the front of the house and two stories at the back. Excess Energy custom built an adjustable A-frame structure to hold the 1320 watt solar array’s panels and to maximize sunlight exposure all year round. “We are very excited about this installation,” said Sherwood. “We were given two thumbs up by the inspector and have been told it is an excellent installation.” Sherwood expects that the solar installation will generate enough electricity to significantly reduce the homeowner’s utility bill. He feels confident that ultimately, the house in the shadow of the CN Tower will provide electricity to the utility company that can be shared by everyone. Sherwood is a Xantrex Certified Dealer. The Certified Dealer program is designed to connect individuals interested in renewable energy products with qualified dealer/installers in their area. Dealers participating in the program are required to have extensive experience in the installation and design of solar and other renewable energy systems, and must successfully take a rigorous technical examination. Xantrex Certified Dealers must also demonstrate a serious commitment to excellence in sales and customer service.