PV Gap

Andy Said:

how many solar power plants are in Canada?

We Answered:

The main ones are:

Sarnia with a capacity of 23.4MW finished in 2009
Arnprior with a capacity of 23.4MW finished in 2009
Stone Mills 9.1MW finished in 2009

Eddie Said:

why can't we build huge great big solar power plants in sunny countries and ship the electricity in batteries

We Answered:

Because of cost, shipping, the size of batteries you would need, the constent replacing etc.

And where do the dead batteries go - the cost more money to recycle....

We are better to invest in natural power research in our own country like water and wind power and then help them develop thier own.

Ethel Said:

Since we have so much space where the sun shines for 365 days, why can't we have major solar power plants?

We Answered:

Eventually, we probably will unless we come up with a different more cost effective way to create power first.

The problem is solar cells are still expensive. Presumably as more people buy into the technology, economies of scale will kick in.

Next, geography comes into play. Some areas are better for solar cells than others, and there are losses in transmitting the power over long distances.

I've looked into putting solar cells on my roof, but the reality is right now, it's just not cost effective for my neck of the woods.
(Northeastern USA) But you can bet I'll be revisiting this idea periodically, as eventually, I think it'll be a way to reduce my energy costs.

Billy Said:

Solar power plants in Canada?

We Answered:

I'm not sure if we have any. I think I did hear something about B.C. having them but I don't know where I heard that. I know many provinces have wind turbines, and wind power plants.