So What is a Solar PV Generation System Anyways?

The energy from the sun is certainly environmentally friendly and readily available, but how do we harness it? Solar photovoltaic (PV) generation is the process by which sunlight is converted into electricity. When sunlight hits a PV cell, usually made from silicon, some of that energy produces an electric current. PV cells are grouped together in panels or arrays in order to produce greater voltages of usable power.

PowerStream Solar rooftop systems use PV technology which is particularly well suited for connecting to local electricity distribution systems. Solar panels are arranged in an array and oriented geographically south to maximize generation. An inverter converts the electricity to a voltage that can be used on the electricity grid. The electricity then moves through a meter which measures the amount generated before being passed on to the local system.

At PowerStream Solar, our primary business is building and maintaining solar installations from which we sell clean energy to Ontario’s electricity grid at rates set by the Ontario Power Authority’s (OPA) Feed-in Tariff program. Because of this program, PowerStream Solar can underwrite the costs for large scale solar installations. We lease qualified rooftops from building owners, creating a revenue stream from unused roof areas, install our solar panels and sell the power to the OPA as we quietly and efficiently feed it back into the electricity grid.

An interesting fact: the efficiency of solar PV systems improves with colder temperatures producing higher currents. Another fact: with your roof and our panels you can help us start saving the planet one solar PV system at a time.

If you are the owner of a commercial building in Ontario and are interested in having a solar PV generation systeminstalled on the rooftop of your facility at no cost, which can also earn you some money, visit the PowerStream Solar website at www.powerstreamsolar.ca for more information.