| Q:1 |
How much roof area do I need for installing panels?
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| A:1 |
Appx. 100sqft of roof area is needed to install 1Kw panels.
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| Q:2 |
How much ground area do I need for installing panels?
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| A:2 |
Appx. 150sqft of roof area is needed to install 1Kw panels.
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| Q:3 |
What is the life of a solar system?
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| A:3 |
With proper maintenance and care a solar panels can produce power for 25 yrs.
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| Q:4 |
What is the affect of shade on productivity of panels?
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| A:4 |
The affect is damaging. A little bit of shade over any part of panels
can make your solar system produce a lot less energy. The less shade, the better.
Shade on even 5% of your panels can reduce system's power output significantly.
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| Q:5 |
What should be the orientation of the panels?
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| A:5 |
Orientation and location of panels are most important to
harvest maximum power from the system. Since Canada is in the northern hemisphere
the panels should ideally face South, the path of sun movement. South East or South West are the secondary options.
Again, West is better than East because of late afternoon sun.
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| Q:6 |
What should be the roof condition for installing solar panels?
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| A:6 |
Check the structural condition of your roof at the time of applying for building permit.
If your roof renovation is imminent you can consider roof renovation and installing the system
at the same time.
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| Q:7 |
What if I require to renovate the roof during lifetime of the system?
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| A:7 |
Just dismantle the panels and get it reinstalled along with the roof.
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| Q:8 |
How many days are required for installing the system?
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| A:8 |
From 2 days to few months (for big commercial system).
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| Q:9 |
What is the basis of power production projection for solar systems in Ontario?
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| A:9 |
'Natural Resources Canada' has a guideline for assessing power
production from solar systems which is, above 1200Kwh (avg.) per Kw of solar PV panels
installed in Ontario.
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| Q:10 |
How do I get payment from OPA?
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| A:10 |
You will be getting payment from your LDC on a regular billing cycle.
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| Q:11 |
What are the financing options available for installing solar systems?
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| A:11 |
House refinance / second mortgage
Line of credit
Other types of loan
Leasing companies
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| Q:12 |
What about the tax issues?
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| A:12 |
Since your property value is increased, it is likely
to be a issue with revenue Canada. Please consult your accountant and
ask for any rebate available for renewable energy capital cost.
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| Q:13 |
Can I rent a roof or land for setting up systems and qualify under
FIT or microFIT program?
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| A:13 |
Yes. You must have a long term agreement with the owner having legal bindings.
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| Q:14 |
What is the impact of installing a system on any property in the event of
selling the property?
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| A:14 |
Your resell value will be increased due to the presence of a secured regular
earning source installed in the property.
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| Q:13 |
Is there any other incentive available?
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| A:13 |
Consult community energy partnership program where province of Ontario will provide
one time support to common groups for new renewable energy projects.
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