Research
Research is a key component of the Solar City Partnership. Below are our current research reports.
Horse Palace Photovoltaic Pilot Project Findings Report
In 2005, Exhibition Place initiated a solar photovoltaic (PV) feasibility study and field test as part
of the organization’s 2010 energy self-sufficiency plan. The roof of the Horse Palace was selected
for the installation and when first installed the 100 kilowatt plant was the largest urban PV array
in Canada.
The learning objectives for this initiative were to:
• compare the performance of technology alternatives under otherwise common environmental
and operating conditions (e.g., different inverter and panel combinations, different panel angles and racking).
• build capacity to operate large roof-mounted PV systems in Toronto and to
• gain experience with the Province of Ontario’s then new Renewable Energy Standard Offer
Program.
This report summarizes the findings from the first year of operations.
Areas of Research Interest for SDHW Systems in 2012
This report looks at issues that would benefit from further research based on the findings of Solar City case studies and other project examinations.
Areas of Research Interest for PV Systems in 2012
This report looks at issues that would benefit from further research based on the findings of Solar City case studies and other project examinations.
Performance Review of Public Outdoor Pool Solar Thermal Heating Systems in the City of Toronto
Four City of Toronto outdoor public pools, Gihon, Park Lawn, Rotary and Weston Lions, were evaluated for this comparative study. Its results will be used to help optimize the performance of solar facilities and establish best practices and tools needed to continuously improve standards for use of solar energy in an urban context.
Performance Review of Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Projects in the Greater Toronto Area
This report evaluates 12 rooftop solar photovoltaic arrays of various sizes and design located at 8 separate sites. Of these 8 sites, 5 are owned by the City of Toronto and 3 are privately owned and operated. The results of this report will be used to help optimize the performance of solar facilities and establish best practices and tools needed to continuously improve standards for use of solar energy in an urban context.
Overcoming solar panels winter blahs - Toronto Star article on research being conducted at St. Lawrence College on the impact of snow on solar panel performance.
