Quantum of Solar?

There are few quantum leaps in technologies. The few that do occur are especially noteworthy but, for the most part, developments are the result of years, sometimes decades, of research — which is the case with modern solar power.

So-called “passive” solar heating has been around for millennia; the ancient Greeks liked to orient their homes to capture natural heat. Modern glazing and other construction developments simply enhance that use of the sun’s rays. Much the same can be said for systems which use sunlight to heat water-cycling systems.

However, despite the high-tech fascination with photovoltaics, there is still considerable interest in the hot-water technology. Hence a new Solar Water Heating Program partly funded with $1.4 million from the federal ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat initiative. Led by Bullfrog Power, which bills itself as “Canada’s leading 100 per cent green electricity provider”, the program also involves Enbridge Gas Distribution and EnerWorks.

While Bullfrog is active in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, the latest funding will cover incentives and rebates for Ontario homeowners in Enbridge markets who want to install solar water heating. These systems can supply up to 60 per cent of an average home’s hot-water needs while cutting energy costs and reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions by one tonne. The systems also are eligible for the ecoENERGY Retrofit Homes Grant and the Home Renovation Tax Credit.