One of the most important potential uses for solar PV cells is in northern communities, many of which depend on high-cost diesel fuel to generate electricity. The relevant authorities are trying to make solar power a more attractive proposition for these communities.

For example, the Government of the Northwest Territories has developed an energy strategy that sets targets for renewable energy, including solar energy. The government plan to obtain 10% of its energy from renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, biomass and hydro, by 2010, and 25 per cent by 2025.

Growing Market

The Canadian solar PV market has grown at an average rate of 25% every year for the last eight years. Canadian companies make solar modules, controls, specialized water pumps, high efficiency refrigerators and solar lighting systems.

In early 2003, Canada’s installed capacity of PV systems was about 10 megawatts, compared with just 1 megawatt in 1992. So things are rapidly improving.

And although solar water heaters only contribute a small fraction of Canada’s energy use at the moment, plans are afoot to make up as much as 5% of the country’s energy needs by the year 2025.

So there is a lot to be hopeful about as solar energy in Canada is about to make its presence felt.

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