FREE ENERGY . . . . .
most SaskPower clients, the Jansens are happy to hear about rate increases because those increases are shrinking their payback time. The future of solar energy is looking bright. The City of Saskatoon is working on creating a solar energy plan, and the Saskatoon and Region Home Builders’ Association is working towards educating city planners, architects, engineers,
builders, and designers about how to build communities and homes that are solar ready from the start. “Renewable energy is now for the masses,” said Ryan. “It used to be for hippies and tree huggers, or people with excess money, and now it’s come to a cost where it is more accessible.” Ashleigh Mattern
Is Solar Energy Right For You? Ryan Jansen, owner of solar installation company Good Steward Solutions, shares his tips.
New House Build A custom build with passive solar design and other energy saving measures is the best set-up for solar energy: less energy will be needed to power your home, and all options can be explored. Another option is to make your home solar ready, so you’ll be ready when the solar revolution comes.
Acreage Jansen says solar energy makes the most sense on acreages where there’s less interference from neighbours, so you don’t have to worry about things like a neighbour’s tree blocking the sunlight. And there’s enough space to set up your panels on the ground, allowing for a solar tracker.
City Living Setting up a solar array in the city can be tricky, but it’s doable. Having a home with southern exposure is the most important determinant for a successful solar set up. An open backyard with no trees may also work, as long as your neighbour isn’t blocking the light you need.
Retrofitting If you’ve maxed out your energy efficiency options, solar is the next step. To retrofit a house in the city, the roof of the home needs to either face south, or the peak needs to run north-south, with the sides facing east-west. And no trees or buildings can be blocking the sunlight.
SUMMER 2013
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Saskatoon HOME
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