Solar Panel Project at the Lifelong Learning Center
Over the course of about three weeks near the end of July, the entire Lifelong Learning Center west-facing roof was transformed into an energy efficient solar panel powerhouse. Guelph Solar, who successfully won the tender bid, brought in a crew of solar power specialists along with a tractor trailer load of solar panels, panel connectors, a forklift, and safety bars that were installed along the roofline to ensure worker safety during the installation process. Company president, Steve Dyck, informed us that engineers determine the correct number of panels to install on the roof to achieve maximum energy and support the demands of the Lifelong Learning Center. In this case, 266 panels were installed generating 127,680 watts at maximum efficiency. Each panel generates 480 watts. The power and electricity need of the centre includes a variety of things such as lighting, heat, air conditioning, water, and water heater, with previous usage data considered.
The LLC parking lot was cordoned off for the duration of the install to ensure the safety of both staff and public accessing the building. Significant space was required to unload the panels and their connectors via forklift from the full-length trailer and transfer them safely to the roof for the awaiting installation specialists.
Guelph Solar is a company that prides itself in recruiting members from the community to be employed for these projects and to learn the operation and repair/troubleshooting of the solar panels and connectors. This empowers the community to be self-sufficient in generating and managing their solar energy, “building stronger, more sustainable communities” as their credo states. The solar panel project is a continuation of the efforts towards green energy and proprietorship. It also enables the opportunity for community members to gain new skills and develop careers in a new specialized trade sector. Landon Trudeau and Simon Inkster received specialized training throughout the installation project, and the two are designated within the community as the champions for maintenance of the solar panel project moving forward. Final touches on the project includes the installation of a control box which Simon completed and is currently awaiting hookup by Hydro 1.
