Project Background
The University of Waterloo is looking for a feasibility study for the renewable energy potential of ground-mounted and parking lot coverage solar photovoltaics.
This work would support Action item 38 of the campus Shift Neutral Climate Action Plan thereby helping the University meet its goals of reducing campus emissions by 35% below 2015 levels by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Action item 38: Conduct a feasibility study on renewable energy sources and an appropriate portfolio that would diversify Waterloo’s energy supply, minimize emissions, and meet suitable portions of campus needs.
Integrating renewable energy on campus will also advance the University’s work on the UN Sustainable Development Goals for Affordable and Clean Energy, and Climate Action (SDGs 7 and 13).
Project Examples
- Researching best practices from large institutions for ground-mount and parking lot coverage solar PV.
- Using GIS and other software to identify suitable sites on the University of Waterloo main campus for ground-mount and parking lot coverage solar PV.
- Providing technical information on the solar potential for the identified ground-mount and parking lot coverage solar PV, including estimated total annual energy production and peak energy production.
- Producing a list of major equipment, infrastructure instrumentation and control system requirements.
- Conducting a cost analysis of a ground-mount and parking lot coverage solar PV projects, including estimated upfront costs, projected maintenance costs, and projected monthly and annual generation potential.
- Exploring the business case under current electricity rate structures for pairing solar PV with battery storage for peak load management.
- Outlining any grid connection considerations and incentives available.