Gulf Islands Driftwood
Ganges station solar roof subject of webinar
A webinar planned by Salt Spring Community Energy (SSCE) will give islanders the chance to learn about the solar energy system emerging at the Mid Island Co-op and the implications for the future of commercial solar.
SSCE’s Kjell Liem said the event, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20, would highlight a new building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solar roof product, among the first of its kind in Canada, being installed at the gas station.
“We are very excited to see the adoption of this truly cutting-edge technology in downtown Ganges,” said Liem, comparing the solar roof to one offered by U.S. automaker Tesla.
“But it’s available in Canada,” he said, “and it’s actually here and electrifying Salt Spring.”
The BIPV product blends solar technology directly into the roof itself, according to Colyn Strong, founder and president of Shift Energy Group, who are putting in the 37.12-kW system. He added that Mid Island Co-op’s history with sustainability and energy conservation made for a perfect fit.
“We believe BIPV is the future of solar; every new home and building constructed should include a means of power generation and storage,” said Strong. “We’re very excited to continue our working relationship with Mid Island by showcasing this exciting product on their Salt Spring store.”
Attendees at the SSCE webinar will hear directly from Shift’s director and project manager Michael Ayotte, who will discuss the project’s design, technology, and its implications for the future of commercial solar installations.
Liem said as part of SSCE’s commitment to fostering renewable energy and clean technology on Salt Spring Island, the webinar will explore the business case for solar investments, particularly focusing on metal rooftop installations. A Q&A session will follow the presentations, allowing attendees to engage with the speakers and deepen their understanding of solar’s role in sustainable development.