Location
Gull Lake, Alberta
Completion Date
Fall of 2023
Category
ResidentialSystem Type
Hybrid Off-Grid System
Project Size
5 Kilowatts (Solar Electric PV panels), 7.2 Kilowatts or 24,000 BTU per hour (Solar Heating)
Equipment Used
18 Solar Electric PV panels, 3 Solar Thermal Collectors, 300 liter solar hot water tank with built-in heat exchangers and an electrical element.
Nestled in the picturesque setting of Gull Lake, Alberta, the Gull Lake Project marks a significant milestone in sustainable, off-grid living. Completed in the fall of 2023, this project showcases an innovative approach to energy independence for a barn-style home, fully powered by solar energy.
The project features 18 Solar Electric PV panels generating a total of 5 Kilowatts, paired with a substantial battery bank to ensure reliability and storage. Augmenting this setup, we installed 3 Solar Thermal Collectors, contributing an additional 7.2 Kilowatts or 24,000 BTU per hour, dedicated to providing domestic hot water and efficient in-floor heating.
Initially planned for the base of the home, a strategic pivot led to mounting the solar thermal collectors at the roof's peak. Positioned at a 60° angle, this adjustment maximizes solar harvesting while safeguarding the system against adverse weather conditions. These collectors are seamlessly integrated with a 300-litter solar hot water tank, equipped with built-in heat exchangers and an electrical element, to ensure consistent heating, even on cloudy days.
To optimize the system's efficiency year-round, we implemented by-pass valving to transition from winter to summer mode, allowing excess heat to warm the client's hot tub during the warmer months. This thoughtful feature not only enhances the system's utility but also contributes to an extraordinary level of client satisfaction.
Our client was over the moon happy with the solar thermal system's efficiency, greatly appreciating the significant reduction in propane use.
The successful execution of the Gull Lake Project was bolstered by our partnership with Kansas Ridge Mechanical, a reputable plumbing company from Rimbey, Alberta. Their expertise was invaluable in fine-tuning the system's design and functionality, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
The Gull Lake Project stands as a beacon of innovation in off-grid solar energy solutions, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of sustainable living. Through careful planning, technical excellence, and collaborative effort, this project paves the way for future endeavours in renewable energy and off-grid independence.
