What are Solar Technologies?

Solar energy technologies consists of three distinct energy technologies:

1. Photovoltaics (PV) - used for producing electricity directly from light

2. Solar Thermal (ST) - used for providing thermal (heat) energy

    a. Water heating (space, water, swimming pools, process heat)

    b. Air heating (space and ventilation)

3. Passive Solar

    a. Space heating

    b. Daylighting

Common Myths on Solar in Canada

Myth 1: There is not enough sun in Canada

False. In the populated areas of Canada the yearly solar energy average exceeds that of the two countries that are world leaders in solar energy use - Germany and Japan.

Myth 2: Solar can not provide very much energy

False. One square metre of south facing windows can supply as much power as a baseboard electric heater. The amount of solar energy falling on 15 square kilometers of Canadian land equals the entire energy capacity of all the nuclear power plants in Canada.

The Canadian Solar Industries Association is a national organization supported by industry members, the public and government agencies. For more than 25 years, CanSIA members from all segments of the solar industry have joined together to support, promote and advance all forms of solar energy for the benefit of Canadians and the environment.

Briefing on Solar Energy in Canada

To the Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources

2378 Holly Lane, #208, Ottawa ON K1V 7P1

By Rob McMonagle (Executive Director)