As the business day and week rounded to a close many participants in the Ontario solar industry were given cause to rejoice upon receiving the long awaited establishment of this renewable energy incentive program. Good news has arrived and we at EthoSolar are delighted to pass it along.
According to what has been published on the OPA website, an application window will be opened for the first round of small FIT 2.0 projects beginning October 1 and ending November 30, 2012. Small FIT projects are defined as typically less than 500 kW.
The new FIT rates have also been published by the OPA, therefore, enabling many communities to once again harness the power of the sun while generating a passive income for their business, property or as individuals. Considering the rates have decreased, it is imperative for investors in solar to know their options and understand the advancements made in technology. EthoSolar recently announced a strategic partnership with TecnoSun Solar Canada. What is so attractive about the TecnoSun Solar EcoChamp tracking systems lies within the unique and simplistic engineering. EcoChamp tracking systems are designed to achieve up to 40% higher efficiencies ensuring a higher return-on-investment for both roof and ground mount solar projects.
Lastly, but most importantly, now that the incentives for renewable energy are back in place many jobs will be saved throughout Ontario. It is our belief the OPA and Government of Ontario should be applauded for their efforts in remaining committed to renewable energy development. Our local FIT program is relatively young in comparison with world leaders such as Germany who have had 10+ years of experience with solar. Ontario is in the spotlight on a global scale and was featured in speakers discussions at last months Intersolar North America in San Francisco. Governments across North, Central and South America, Asia and Africa are paying close attention to the integration and utilization of solar technologies within our own province. We are playing a significant role in establishing clean energies that will prove efficient and reliable in years to come.
As a complete 360-degree solar solution provider with experience across Ontario, EthoSolar is committed to working on behalf of our clients in effort to earn the maximum available Priority Points for each project we represent. FIT applications with the most Priority Points will be escalated in the OPAs awarding of FIT contracts. It is now the responsibility of dedicated service providers to ensure projects are meticulously carried through the FIT application process. Since 2009 EthoSolar has been working with the OPA, Hydro One and several Local Distribution Companies (LDCs) to lead clients through the required documents and processes, which often requires the expertise unique to our team. The EthoSolar team is looking forward to continuing our role in solar energy development across Canada and the US.