Solar

Print this page Make font smaller Reset font size Make font larger

Sustainable Growth

Benefits of solar Concerns about solar
  • Zero emissions
  • Renewable fuel source
  • Can be used isolated from power grid
  • Continuous advancements in solar technology
  • Limited capacity
  • Cost is considerable
  • Variable output must be managed
  • Intermittent supply
  • Cannot increase or decrease output according to demand

Solar converts the energy from the sun into electricity. At present, solar power is not suitable for large-scale generation in Saskatchewan because of its high cost and low capacity factors.

Solar research

In 2000, we installed a photovoltaic array at the Saskatchewan Science Centre for research purposes. Results showed that the cost savings realized from the solar energy system cannot effectively offset the capital costs for installation. As a result, this technology is better suited to niche applications where connection to the grid is uneconomical or when passive solar enhancement is desired. For the purposes of scientific demonstration, this project continues to be in operation.