Renewable Technology

One of the main advantages of solar power systems is that they require very little maintenance. The only required upkeep is cleaning the panels a couple of times a year.

Solar Energy: An effective, affordable and unlimited energy source

• Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells are used to directly convert sunlight into electricity. Solar cells have been used to power watches and calculators for years, now we can use more sophisticated panels to power our homes.
• One of the main advantages of solar power systems is that they require very little maintenance. The only required maintenance is cleaning the panels a couple of times a year.
• The Ontario Ministry of Energy is proposing to allow individuals to claim a tax credit for the cost of solar panels, and is urging the federal government to follow suit. The Ministry's goal is to convert 100,000 homes to solar power within five years.

Wind Energy

• Wind turbines use the wind's energy to generate electricity. The windmill's modern equivalents, wind turbines, are mounted on a tower to capture the most energy.
• The Government of Ontario, through the Ministry of Energy, has proposed a plan to encourage the use of renewable energy sources throughout the province. Parts of the plan include a proposed move towards using wind power to provide electricity to First Nations and other remote communities currently using diesel generation. The Ministry of Energy is seeking Federal commitment for this initiative and will work with First Nations towards this goal.

Small Hydro

• Hydro power captures the energy of flowing water to generate electricity. A turbine and a generator convert the energy from the water to mechanical and then electrical energy. It is one of the most efficient ways to generate electricity and creates no air pollution.
• Small hydro stations have no dams - they are 'run of river' and have a minimal effect on the environment.

Biomass

• Biomass generation uses garbage or renewable resources to generate electricity. Many other sources of biomass can be used, including plants, residues from agriculture or forestry, and the organic component of municipal and industrial wastes and even the fumes from landfills can be used as a biomass energy source.