Ontario MicroFIT program ($0.80/kWh for PV)

[Rob Beckers]

Just an update and an attempt to tie the various Green Power Act and FIT threads together: You can find the latest overview, rules, draft contract, and tariffs at the Ontario Power Authority (http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/fit/Page.asp?PageID=1226&SiteNodeID=1039) Web site. Click on the "microFIT" link there (I don't want to link directly to it since it changes between revisions of the FIT rules).

Projects of 10kW and less are now falling under the much simplified microFIT rules. In terms of costs, the only thing (besides installation of the RE items) left in the rules is that the customer pays for the new meter and connection to the local utility. There is (normally) no Impact Assessment Fee, nor an application fee for the FIT program.

The highlights as things stand now are:


A 20-year contract paying 80.2 cents per kWh for solar electricity up to 10kW.
PV can be roof or ground mounted.
The 10kW limit of the "name plate capacity" is defined as the PV modules rated output, not the inverter capacity. This was unclear in previous draft and has now been explicitly clarified by the OPA.
It is possible to have battery-backed PV so the power stays on when the grid goes down.
There is a mandatory 30-day wait between applying for the FIT contract, and applying for the new meter and connection. The reason given is that the OPA needs time to determine there is no previous FIT contract for the facility and such.


In all this is shaping up to be a well-thought out program. The only item I would like to see changed is the low feed-in tariff for small wind turbines (just 13.5 cents/kWh, and that's less than the marginal consumer cost of electricity, making net-metering a better proposition). Right now everyone in the business is waiting for the rules to take effect. Potential customers are all on the fence, since they know the FIT rules are coming they are not placing any orders. The original promise was July, which became August, and now we're in September. The RE installation season is almost over here, October gets ugly and roof-top installs become a real pain to do. So, for all intends and purposes, we're looking at next year before things really start happening.

-RoB-

[Rob Beckers]

It finally happened: The new Ontario FIT program has started. Official starting date was September 24th. Realistically, the Ontario Power Authority will start taking applications on October 1st. Payment for PV under 10 kW is still 80.2 cents per kWh.

For the official rules and contract please see the OPA Website (http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/fit/Page.asp?PageID=1115&BL_WebsiteID=18). For most only the MicroFIT rules are of interest (http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/fit/Storage/10/10435_microFIT_Rules.pdf), that is for PV arrays of less than 10kW.

That was the good. Now the bad: The final rules slipped in a requirement for Ontario content (called "domestic" content in the contract). Before 2011 they require 40% to be "domestic", after that it is 60%. The previous (draft) version of the contract did not have this requirement, if my memory is correct, at least not for the MicroFIT rules (<10kW). This was a last-minute addition and reeks of backroom dealing to special interest. The exact words of what constitutes domestic content are as follows:


Solar photovoltaic modules (i.e. panels), where the active photovoltaic layer(s) have been fabricated by methods including but not limited to vapour deposition, evaporation or sputtering, in Ontario. Qualifying percentage: 45%

Inverter, where the assembly, final wiring and testing has been done in Ontario. Qualifying percentage: 9%

Mounting systems, where the structural components of the fixed or moving mounting systems, have been entirely machined or formed or cast in Ontario. The metal for the structural components may not have been pre-machined outside Ontario other than peeling/roughing of the part for quality control purposes when it left the smelter or forge. The machining and assembly of the mounting system must entirely take place in Ontario (i.e. bending, welding, piercing, and bolting). Qualifying percentage: 9%

Wiring and electrical hardware that is not part of the other Designated Activities (i.e. items 1, 2, 3, and 5 of this table), sourced from an Ontario Supplier. Qualifying percentage: 10%

All on- and off-site labour and services. For greater certainty, this Designated Activity shall apply in respect of all Contract Facilities. Qualifying percentage: 27%


What this says is that the modules have to be made in Ontario, silicon included. The real problem is that I would not know of any PV modules that are entirely made in Ontario. There are a few assembly "brands" that buy cells from other sources (China?) and assemble them into panels, but that does not qualify according to the above rules. What's more, I do not trust any new brands to fabricate the quality that is needed to last 25 years or more. They all need to go through a "debugging" phase where they work out the inevitable issues and weaknesses that don't surface until several years into production.

Now, it is possible to get past the 40% requirement by adding labour (27%), wiring/parts (10%), and mounting system (9%), for a total of 46%. That will work until 2011. Does anyone know of a manufacturer in Ontario of mounting systems where all the work (short of casting) is done in Ontario? I don't.

Similarly, does anyone know of an Ontario manufacturer of PV modules? After 2011 that will be the only way to satisfy the requirements.

This "domestic" addition to the rules is incredibly short-sighted and, well, idiotic. I can see the (political) need for encouraging Ontario business, but quite frankly, as a PV installer I have no clue at this time how to fulfill this requirement! I have customers lined up that are more than willing to pay the bucks and have PV installed to take advantage of the FIT program, but I can't go ahead for lack of qualifying materials. I could understand if they had a very gradual ramp-in period of, say 5 years (or even more), since that is how long it takes for PV module makers to build a factory here, and start production.

By the way, the same rules apply to larger installations as well, and there is a similar list for wind turbines. Another example of a good idea and its half-a$$ed implementation by Canadian politicians. Unfortunately something that happens too often here.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Hi Rob
I had my first consultant visit last night. It looks like tracking is out of the picture for us...too expensive, too mechanical, not enough Ontario content. Making racking out of material worked in Ontario will meet the requirements, but unless you're ready to set up a manufacturing facility in short order the necessities of tracking systems are beyond the scope of the program. What foresight.

The problem would only get worse if you're planning on a roof mount. THere's so much less to deal with in materials when there's no seasonal or daily tracking abilities, or putting on the ground. I can't figure out what special interest group got that in the regs somehow? Who does it benefit? I'd expect something like that from a blue government but a red one trying to look green?

We'll have to see how any comparative bids/estimates come in price wise. There's so many ready to go that no-one should feel bad if another contractor is picked over them (right? you're a contractor, would you be upset if customer 5 said no thanks? :evil: it would leave you enough time to work on customers 1-19 :smile1:

Ralph

[Rob Beckers]

Hi Ralph,

Yes, for now the only way to comply is by using all-local mounting hardware (until 2011, then that won't work any more either). I've been talking to a few people since my post yesterday, and it seems that during the clarification session two days ago it was said that they do mean everything needs to be made in Ontario and traceably so; short of the raw stainless and aluminum (for roof mounts), every bolt, nut, extrusion, profile etc. has to be made and processed in Ontario. I am waiting for the recording of that session to be posted online, on the OPA site, so I can listen to it myself.

Word also is that the addition for Ontario content came from very high up. This was not the OPA's idea, but shoved down their throat. The underlying idea seems to be that the focus is on long-term growth in the PV industry. If that means nothing gets installed for a few years then that seems to be fine. What a way to kill a great idea! :frusty:

The premise here is clearly that whoever came up with this is assuming that the industry will deem it worthwhile to set up shop in Ontario. That is a very shaky premise. Ontario (with 13 million people) is no Germany (with 82 million people). PV panel factories that make everything but the silicon ingots are incredibly expensive, and wordwide there currenly is already an overproduction. After 2011 the only way to comply will be with Ontario made panels. Good luck!

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Yes indeed Rob, it sounds like the elephant feet of government stomping all over a good program.

Our recourse seems to be get in now! Rack it and start an income stream. We'd thought about tracking but without an Ontario producer that's out. Do you think there'll be a mad rush (like Janet and me) to get in under the 40% rule? The content rules could make the program whither and die on the vine. THat's been known to happen to worthwhile programs before.

Ralph

Trying not to get too pessimistic but it's tough, tougher for you I guess.

[Rob Beckers]

Well, for now we're dead in the water with MicroFIT in Ontario. There are no PV modules that comply, nor mounting hardware, nor inverters. That means there is no venue to comply with the "domestic content" rules.

I've been contacting metal and fastener supply shops. It looks like they can source Ontario made aluminum L- and U-profiles, and I may be able to find stainless steel bar stock that's Ontario made (for L-feet, to attach the rails holding the modules to the roof). However, several shops have now told me there are no Ontario made fasteners. I have a question into the OPA to see if fasteners need to be Ontario made (the rules seem to suggest that). For now it is no-go though. One maker of racking materials has mentioned that they are moving operations to Ontario, so if we're lucky there will be racking available by early 2010.

The directive to include those domestic content rules came from the Ministry of Energy in Ontario. I suspect they saw the criticism coming, since none of the draft proposals had those rules in them. It had been mentioned that domestic content requirements may be coming a few months before, though no clarification was given of their form. Clearly there would have been a "lively" discussion if those rules had been published during the draft phase. Our professional organization, CanSIA (of which I am a member), at best was not aware of these rules either and didn't have time to do something about them, or at worst let us all down terribly by knowingly allowing them to slide through. Either way, it's bad.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Even the fasteners? THis just gets better and better.

My first contact with the Distributed Generation department at Hydro One was informative. It is their understanding that a microfit for an existing customer is no problem. For someone like me, off grid with not connection and wanting just a revenue meter...I'd have to buy the transformer $5000, without the costs for inspection and evaluation. If on the grid, with even a minimum service, 100 amp panel, one outlet nippled off, wouldn't have a problem connecting.

Now the problem is whether or not to have a load service installed and not own any other of HO's equipment, or s_can the whole idea. I'd hate to miss out on the revenue stream possible with a microfit contract, but is it worth the hassle, and is it indeed possible?

THe draft and released rules and regs state that the OPA can change the rules and parameters at any time, so how about changing or clarifying the content rules? We're no better than our neighbours to the south with their by American rules...our market is so much smaller than theirs how can anyone expect to make money providing materiels made in Ontario (where's that anyway) for just the Ontario market? This gives me a pain in the head.

Ralph

[Ralph Day]

I guess it depends on what is considered "structural"and by whom. If they consider fasteners structural then Rob's point is unfortuneatly valid. Bending welding piercing and bolting done in ontario.., fine, if you can get the bits and pieces here.

I think the MOE was looking for problems where there aren't any. If the Ontario manufacturing industry was interested in this before where were they 5 years ago when I wanted canadian stuff for my off grid project? Thank goodness for surrette!

Ralph

[Paul Bailey]

I"m really starting to wonder what group of polititions was linked with this Fit Plan as it is clearly UnFit . Now whats going to happen to ALOT of these guys, some I know of personally that already have there roof covered in PV and now some major criteria that will not be met. .Let the program roll without all the BS. As Govenor Swartzenager stated; " whats green for the economy can be very green for business $$$ "

Is there anything good at all about this other than the number 82 cents!!!

I guess I'll edit and add some more : Sunlink builds a high Canadian content tracker. A couple links and NO I don't endorse there products but just know they've been around over ten years

http://www.sunlinksolartracker.com/images/sunlink.pdf
http://www.sunlinksolartracker.com/.

Verifiable content down to the nuts and bolts is going to be a Rats nest for everyone......

[Rob Beckers]

Paul, first off, "Canadian built" is not going to be good enough. It has to be Ontario built, with verifiable Ontario parts for anything structural. From discussion with various installers the consensus right now is that there is no tracker that qualifies under the MicroFIT rules.

Ralph, in the question and answer session immediately after the rules were released it was made clear that the OPA would take a hard line as to how to interpret the rules. Hopefully they will wave the need for Ontario made fasteners, but who wants to take the risk and put $20,000 in modules on their roof only to hear that it does not comply and there is no contract.

Do not rely on your local distribution company (such as Hydro One) to know much about, nor care about, the FIT and MicroFIT rules. They are not writing contracts. All they will be quite happy to provide is an extra meter for additional $$. From there you are on your own.

The word is that quite a few companies have been installing arrays on rooftops in anticipation of the MicroFIT rules taking effect. They promised their customers a contract, which they now cannot get. It's a big mess, and it will hurt more than a few companies.

At the end of the day, this makes the various government officials and ministers look really good without delivering a thing: They can now claim that Ontario has its Green Power Act, and an 80-cent feed-in-tariff. Never mind that nobody can actually use it. I've seen this happen before in Canadian politics, it seems to be the modus operandi: Grandiose ideas, short sighted (or downright idiotic) implementation.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

My conspiracy radar is going off! The govamint wants to look green, plans a program, finds out I want to be involved (and others too), then does a really fast backpedal when they realize how much money it's going to cost them! Could be other reasons, but this one seems pretty likely to me:notrust:

I'll have my local machinist make my nuts and bolts out of threaded rod and nuts welded on them! The iron ore the steel is made from I'll dig out of Paul's back yard! Just try and stop me now!!!

Ralph

[Paul Bailey]

Yes there is some steel out there,exploded ordinances aka -pipe bombs. Scared me more than impressed me....Kinda like this FIt program. Pieces of the pipe would have to be dug up but guess what , its chinese pipe,so thats no good.as theres no trillium on that pipe. Anyway i'm saddened by all this and I have not even looked at the FIT rules. Since I've been into solar for over 20 years and Kinda getting more excited by some new solar opportunities and technologies, Yet another Government program soured but initially praised as a sweet deal. Please tell me something good Paul:mad: Oh I know where there's 3 of these $30K dollar rooftops, Yep , the panels are bolted down and inverters running, Just take a guess what program there waiting for. And you only get one Guess

[Ric Murphy]

Just by coincidence there is a seminar this coming Wed Oct 7 titled "Selling Solar Electricity - Taking Advantage of the FIT Program". The guest speaker will supposely have all the answers on the subject. The following is from the seminar outline:

The Green Energy Act, 2009 (GEA) was introduced to the Ontario Legislature on February 23, 2009. It includes
a proposal for a new renewable energy program known as a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) Program designed to
further encourage the development of renewable energy supply. Part of the FIT program will allow homeowners
to sell solar electricity (for systems < 10 kW) for approximately $0.80
kWh.
Ed will be walking us through exactly what steps need to be followed to take
advantage of this program and what costs you will encounter along the way. By
the end of the session you will know what paperwork needs to be filled out, who
to contact for each step, what costs are involved at each step, pricing on various
solar systems and what sort of payback period can be expected.
Ed will be bringing some sample equipment for you to view and ask questions about.

Since the seminar was scheduled before this new Ontario Content issue came to light it should be interesting to hear how to comply. I was planning on attending the seminar anyway but now thanks to this forum will have some very useful questions to pose. I'll report back on Thursday!!!

Ric

http://www.bluewatersustainabilityinitiative.com/Nav/index_html?TYPE=1&RECORDID=1

[Ralph Day]

Great Ric

We need clarity. Hopefully Ed can provide clarity.

If anyone asks the question about off grid people joining up I'd like to know any answers. For instance, if you just have a revenue meter, no load meter do you need to buy any hardware from Hydro One? I'm told the transformer is my cost $5000 at least.

Thanks and good luck Ric

[Rob Beckers]

Ric, did you find out anything new regarding FIT/MicroFIT at the seminar?

By the way, the OPA has changed the MicroFIT domestic content rules somewhat: They now use almost the same table as the FIT program, where PV modules that are partially made in Ontario will still get you a percentage. The more of the work done in Ontario, the higher the percentage (this was previously all-or-nothing). That is good.

I am still waiting for an answer on my question if fasteners have to be made in Ontario for the mounting hardware, to be able to count that hardware towards domestic content...

-RoB-

[Ric Murphy]

Well I'm not sure how much I'm going to be able to add to what we already know. There was a very good turnout at the seminar on Wednesday, but the bulk of the time was spent answering questions on solar systems in general. I'd estimate less than 5% of the 2 hours was actually on the Micro FIT program.

The speaker was a guy named Ed Nicol. He is a dealer/installer for a company called Sun Volts Unlimited. He has a 1600w PV system of his own and is on net metering. He lives about 15 miles north of me. He claims that all systems sold AND installed by Sun Volts meet the minimum Ontario content requirements. He stated 46% Ontario content but didn't detail how. He said the 60% content requirement for 2011 likely could not be achieved in todays market. I asked about racking/mounting hardware and he said their's was 100% Ontario content. Obviously labor makes up a significant portion but he also included things like taxes and permits. I asked if an individual installed their own system whether they could value the labor portion and he said yes...labor is labor. Since this program just took effect Oct 1 he also admitted when asked that no one has actually been approved yet. He stated numerous times though that the application and approval process has been simplified from past programs and is very easy to follow.

I've concluded that the Micro FIT program is geared specifically for new installations at grid connected sites. If you are off grid (like Ralph) then participating bcomes more costly and challenging. I didn't get a chance to ask about the transformer but have assumed that it's required to step up to line voltage. If you're on grid then you already have one to step down from line voltage. Also found out that battery based systems are not allowed. If you already have one as I and many others do, then you must make sure it's completely isolated from the Micro FIT system. They wanted to make sure you couldn't buy hydro at the lower cost, charge batteries and sell back at the $.80.2/kwh. I guess that's fair enough. Another issue I hadn't realized is that the program allows you to be paid the $.80.2/kwh for whatever portion of your usage you can produce. For some reason I thought you would only be paid the higher rate for any thing over and above your consumption (duh). I found the Micro FIT Overview very easy to understand and informative. It can be found here......
http://microfit.powerauthority.on.ca/pdf/microFIT-Program-Overview.pdf

I wish I had more answers but I think thats about all I got out of the 2 hours I spent there.
Ric

[Ralph Day]

Thanks Ric
Every little bit helps.

Where is Port Lambton anyway? There's a sun volts unlimited north of Belleville 1/2 hr from me, but I thought Port Lambton was in western ontario. Perhaps it's a franchise outfit.

Ralph

ps still spinning tires on the microFIT front. Clarity, clarity clarity.

[Ric Murphy]

Port Lambton is about 20 miles south of Sarnia. The Sun Volts website lists numerous locations in Ontario. Ed's is listed as Bluewater/Sarnia. I believe Ed said the racking is made at the Sundrige location. I'm going to guess that's the head office location as well. Ed mentioned they had a Micro FIT install last Thursday. He estimated the approval process should be 30 days or less. I'm considering waiting a few weeks and then having him come down for a site assessment and system estimate. Maybe by then one of his other systems may have completed the approval process. I have a very large barn roof with direct southern access. Perfect location for small hydro plant.
Ric

[Ralph Day]

Thanks for the info Ric

Yesterday we filled out and submitted a MicroFIT application with a connection date of May 1 2010. Might be wishful thinking, but we had to start somewhere. Haven't spent a dime on anything yet, except maybe gas money, or internet time money.

The mf website states emphatically not to spend money on anything until you have the offer of contract letter from them. And that is conditional on meeting all the requirements. Hurry up and wait!

Ralph

[Rob Beckers]

Ralph, good to hear you took the plunge!
Do you have more clarity about the domestic content rules, specifically for racks/mounting hardware? I'm still trying to figure out how to buy or make those and receive the domestic content percentage. What has me worried is that the OPA can request more information regarding domestic content after you complete the project, and at that point deny the contract if they believe it is non-compliant. Imagine putting up $20K+ in modules and not get a contract. That would ruin your day in a hurry.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

No clarity as of yet. Plum Hollow folks say they have a pole racking that is compliant...they just have to find out how OPA "certifies"it as compliant to avoid your last comment happening.

Pole racking sounds like a good idea for us. We can core drill for the poles, get the trenching done and still work in foul weather. We could have the system up and running in December and just about have enough solar harvest to pay the interest on the loan:blink1: :eek:

With the "lesser of "pv or inverters having 10 kw of inverters and 12kw of panels we'd be pushing the maximum power into the grid (most of the time) without the hassels of tracking hardware and software. Probably cheaper for 2kw of panels than tracking for 10kw. The best price I found (non compliant) was $15-17K total. A tracker for 10kw was $20K...and massive. Imagine a800sq ft sail in your yard:blink: With enough land available, after clearing, pole racks should do nicely.

Ralph

[Rob Beckers]

There was another question-and-answer session today with the OPA by phone conference. Quite a few changes were announced.

For those that installed prior to October 1st, they are grandfathered and do not have to comply with the domestic content rules. Anyone currently under net-metering or a RESOP contract can convert that to a FIT/MicroFIT contract, free of domestic content requirements. This is especially important for those that had PV installed prior to October 1st, with the promise of their installer that they would be eligible for the FIT/MicroFIT contract. Thanks to this loosening of the rules they are now off the hook.

For the mounting systems section of the domestic content rules (good for 9% under MicroFIT), the change was made that 15% of the cost of the materials can be non-Ontario, and it will still qualify. The intent here is to allow for small items such as fasteners, which are not available from any Ontario source, while still getting the 9%.

I have to do the calculations, but hopefully it is possible to get all the stainless steel fasteners and stay under this 15%. That would mean there now is a way to install under MicroFIT, at least until 2011: Combining Ontario labour, wiring and electrical hardware, and mounting system makes for more than the required 40%. This leaves the choice of PV modules and inverter free, they can be any brand from any source.

The OPA also announced a much enhanced FAQ section on their Web site, within about a week, to address many of the finer details.

That's definitely progress!

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Great news Rob. Now things will roll.

Are you going to try and get on some roofs before snow flies?

So far I've spent $13 or so on parts for the tractor...applied to project costs. I left a stump too high, hooked some hydraulic lines loose and had to have a neighbour tow me out of the woods. Trying too hard i guess.

Ralph

[Jeff Birkle]

Sorry I've been away from this site for a while.

There are not many manufacturers in Ontario, that is why I've been sooooo busy getting my Alternative/Renewable Energy manufacturing business going here in Toronto.

There are two solar panel assemblers in Canada.

Only one in Ontario (Toronto) called Solgate. Solgate is now sold by Sentinel Power Systems. I know someone there so I will see what Ontario made electronics they have.

There are thee company's in the progress, that will be completely manufacturing solar panels in Ontario ready by next summer??????

The first is Morgan Solar (not sure of their product yet, new type of concentrated cells).

The second is ???? near Kingston that claims they will employ 1000 people. They may be amphorous cells???????(It wouldn't suprise me if this company had something to do with Ontario content).

The third is a friend of a friend here in Toronto that will be making cells out of biodegradable material??????

There is one manufacturer for Solar trackers in Sudbury or Thunder bay. It's a basic pole mount tracker only.



There are talks with a US Wind turbine company to open a plant near Windsor that will employ 200 people. (Another company for Ontario content????)

There is a wind turbine company out between Kingston and Brockville. Do you guys know who they are?



So much to do, so little time.



Jeff

[Rob Beckers]

Hi Jeff, welcome back! Good to see you again.
Thanks for the update, and please keep it coming. I'm trying to keep a handle of what's available but there's only so much one can do.

Speaking about that: Centennial Solar (http://centennialsolar.com/en/index.html) is moving a production plant for PV modules to Ontario. They expect to be online by the end of this month. They claim to make modules from the silicon up, so with the new domestic content rules for the PV modules that would result in a high percentage.

I also received a reply from the OPA that they do not require fasteners used for the mounting hardware to be made in Ontario. That makes finding stainless steel fasteners a whole lot easier. I'm currently talking to Ontario aluminum extrusion makers, to find materials for roof mounts. By the way, if anyone can recommend a structural engineer (preferably in my area, preferably good and reasonably priced) I would appreciate it. Ottawa requires stamped engineered drawings for PV installs.

The manufacturer of Ontario made pole-mounts is True North Power (http://www.truenorthpower.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11&Itemid=12). I have no direct experience with their products, but they look nicely made. Pole mounts have the advantage that they can be seasonally adjusted to maximize production, are easier to reach for brushing off snow, and if even more production is needed you can bolt on a tracker.

Not sure if I mentioned this before in a post (so this may be double): My real problem with the Ontario manufacturers of PV modules is that they are all basically new and "no-name" brands. None of them have been in business more than a few years. Their modules are largely untested with respect to the 35+ years time one can expect a good PV module to function. Those that recall the first products of what are now major brands know that these were often utter junk. There's no reason to expect the Ontario manufacturers to be any different, they too need to go through a period of time to work out the bugs, and I would much like to wait 5 years or so before buying from them (looks like that won't be possible though thanks to the FIT rules). It greatly worries me that I may install modules on many roofs, only to be called back a few years later by those customers due to failing modules, water ingress etc. The 25-year warranties are useless; the manufacturer would be long gone. Besides, labor is not covered in any event, and have you ever tried to pull a module from the middle of a installed roof array? There's an excellent chance that would put me out of business...

-RoB-

[Jeff Birkle]

I have asked my fastener supplier about stainless fasteners, and like you said non are made in Ontario.

I asked my RE supplier about racking, and they said they have a racking line that is Ontario compliant.
Another company I deal with (Peckovers/Copper and brass) sells Ontario founded extrusions made by "Extrudex".

Jeff

[Jeff Birkle]

Speaking of system failures.
Do you think there might be a need or an RE warranty company?
I have a call into my insurance company to see what issues might arise from different aspects of this market.

Jeff

[Rob Beckers]

Hi Jeff,

If you can find out the brand name of the Ontario-compliant racking that would be helpful. While I'm still working on "doing my own" it is dumb to have to re-invent the wheel. As to insurance: Most home-owner insurance will cover RE installed around the house, both PV and wind (and they'll probably raise your premium for it!).

-RoB-

[Rob Beckers]

The OPA has finally posted their promised clarifications to the domestic content rules. You can find it here (http://fit.powerauthority.on.ca/Page.asp?PageID=122&ContentID=10598&SiteNodeID=1054&BL_ExpandID=262).

The "15% exemption rule" that they announced during the last Q&A session (for racking) has disappeared again, but they now formally state that fasteners do not need to be Ontario made.

Also very interesting is what they have to say about inverters, to meet domestic content. The bar is set quite low: No parts need to be made here, the PCBs do not need to be populated here, the only requirement is literally what they put in rules; assembly, wiring, and testing need to be done in Ontario.

As some of you may know my business is a distributor for Power-One inverters (http://www.solacity.com/PowerOne.htm). I heard yesterday that by the end of this month the larger PVI-Central inverters will be assembled in Ontario, and count towards domestic content (due to their size, 50kW and up, that's only of interest to FIT). Alas, right now no plans by Power-One to have the smaller Aurora inverters assembled here.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Hi all
This is a don't hold your breath warning.

If you're like me and applied for a microFIT project as soon as the program was released...dont; hold your breath, at least for too long. I called the OPA yesterday, after hearing nothing since my application date of Oct 10 and was told that there was so many applications they would not be able to meet the 30 day response time (letter of offer time limit). Well, an email a week or two ago would have been nice. You know, just a note to let you know we havent'forgotten about you etc etc.

Dealing with bureaucracy is frustrating. It looks like spring for any installs IMHO. Waiting to do anything until an offer is in hand might not be necessary, but who'se going to spend tens of thousands of dollars without knowing you'll get a contract. I know, some did already, but they must still be waiting too! Tee hee.

Ralph

PS puff out your cheeks so it looks like you're holding your breath...but breathe through your nose.:sick:

[Rob Beckers]

Ralph, is there any particular reason why you're waiting for an OPA reply? Unless you had a previous RESOP contract all they will do is give the go-ahead. I would think that you can start building so you're ready when they (finally) give the green light. At the very least you could get the foundations in now, lay conduit for cables in the ground, before things get ugly. Then when they OK the project all you need is a few good weather days to bolt modules on, so you could easily complete it even in winter.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Hi Rob
The site is still covered in brush, the first work to do is the buldozing. Do you really think they couldn't say no? By the time the site is cleared (going to do that anyway), and pipes or foundation slabs are in we're looking at near $10k. The date for connection I put as May 1st, might be about right by how slowly things are progressing so far.

Some test pits showed flat solid rock for 2 holes, shale broken rock in 1, all under about 3 feet of dirt. For pole mounts this may require some ballast concrete around the poles. Perhaps a well tile filled with concrete?

Ralph

[Rob Beckers]

Ralph, my understanding is that for MicroFIT the OPA review is solely there to make sure that you're not abusing the rules. In other words, everyone is approved, unless you're trying to slip a fast one by them. With that I mean something like a previous RESOP contract, multiple projects on the same location (ie. splitting a 20kW project into two 10kW MicroFIT ones just to get the higher rate), or maybe an existing FIT contract. The LDC (your local hydro company) has no say in the matter whatsoever. For FIT contracts it is a bit more complicated, since the type of land, distribution capacity and all that start playing a role.

-RoB-

[Jeff Birkle]

If you want to send your e-mail to me at jeffbirkle@hotmail.com I will forward you all the links to the Ontario compliant racking from my supplier. They say they will be ready to ship in 2 weeks.

Best Regards
Jeff

[Rob Beckers]

Thanks Jeff! I've sent you a PM.

-RoB-

[Rob Beckers]

Ralph, just wanted to add to my previous remarks: The easy way to find out is to give the OPA a call. Their phone number is on their site. While they were not able to answer all my questions over the the phone, I've found them to be very helpful. In your case, they should be able to simply list what their process is for approving/disapproving a contract, and that's all you need to know.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Thanks
I'll try that Rob.

Today's run-around was between Hydro One's Billing/services and HO's direct connect microfit branch. Each said to call the other about the same topic. Slowly but surley, they'll get it figured out. At least when you call Hydro 1 most of the first contact personnel have heard of microFIT...they now send you to someone who supposedly knows something about it :amazed:

Ralph

[Ralph Day]

Hello all

So, a long time since the last post. THings are almost at completion! I will start a thread with pictures and timelines real soon. It's been periods of intense activity followed by periods of nothing happening followed by...

Final electrical work at the panels next week, ESA inspection then hookup, and eventually income :amuse:.

Any particular topic area that a microFIT project summary should be placed (Rob)? Thanks

Ralph

[Rob Beckers]

Ralph, good to hear you're joining the club of green power plant owners! :D
Since it's PV I'd post it over there (the solar electricity section), but feel free to do what you see fit.

I've received my conditional offer back last week. Finding the time to actually install things is going to be a bit of an issue. Right now I'm very busy with my company, selling and installing solar here in the area.

-RoB-

[Ralph Day]

Time constraints? No problem, just have the spouse call Solacity and book for an install. After all, who gets you moving faster, a customer or a spouse? (Fastest of all...the customer who is your spouse) :bigsmile:

Ralph

[Julian Egelstaff]

Hello,

I was browsing the web for microFIT info, and came across this thread and website. I thought I would add a post and refer people to my website about our 3kW solar array. The site includes a lot of info about the microFIT program, relevant to some of the early questions in this thread.

http://www.yourturn.ca/solar/

--Julian
__________________
I'm Solar Powered in Toronto (http://www.yourturn.ca/solar/)

[Patrick Black]

I just posted this somewhere else but here seems more appropriate. Sorry for the redundancy.

Apparently "domestic requirement" clause makes the FIT program illegal. It violates WTO rules and the EU and Japan are taking us to court over it. Link to article:

http://abetterenergyplan.ca/#/news/attacking_tarrif

[Daniel Arch]

Hi, I'm just here to post a little bit of an update on the status of the Feed in Tariff Program. Since the last post I saw on this thread was from a little while back, I wanted to say that the Feed in Tariff program will be active in the Fall and it is still a great opportunity to offset your carbon output and get paid for it. The rates will be set at roughly $0.39/kWh, but that is liable to change very soon. For more information on the status of the program and on how to take part in it visit, http://microfit.powerauthority.on.ca// (http://microfit.powerauthority.on.ca).

Admin: Commercial link replaced by OPA MicroFIT link

[Jeff Birkle]

I,m not sure when you posted or if you are aware but just wanted to point out that all FIT programs are not available at this time.
The Micro-FIT program ended on July 26 because it reached it's 50MW capacity.
New rates where announced Aug 16 (for the next 30MW) that will be in effect for the new program when it is released this Fall (sometime).
The new rates will be $.0396/kw down from $.0549/kw.

[Rob Beckers]

We may get lucky: The E-mails sent out by the OPA talk about the new rates taking effect on the 26th of August. Does that mean they're re-opening the program for submissions again that day? I'm keeping my fingers crossed...

-RoB-

[Jeff Birkle]

The OPA hasn't said if they will keep time stamps for previous Terminated applications.
It will be interesting to see what they do with the new Domestic content rules and how the Suppliers handle that too!

[Rob Beckers]

Jeff, you mean for MicroFIT?
The OPA terminated those in no uncertain terms. Anyone that applied after the last quota was reached (50MW, was it?) received a reply that their application had been terminated and they can apply again in the next round. There won't be any keeping of time stamps, or priority for those that applied before.

Of course, all these unpleasantries could easily have been avoided if the OPA had even a little bit of foresight and organizational skills...

-RoB-

[Jeff Birkle]

Rob, Yes Micro-FIT.
If the application was not set to "Pending Connection" it was terminated.
It was 50MW, the next amount will only be 30MW.
Not sure why but the week before they still showed 2MW remaining so they must have had some of the capacity in Queue.

The terminated Small-FIT applications where allowed Time stamps from previously, for the next round which means there could be over 600MW applying this fall for the 100MW alotment for non-aboriginal installations.

[Jeff Birkle]

So we got lucky last night as the OPA relaunched the 30MW microFIT program.
For the remainder of 2013 they have set aside 30MW and an end date of DEC 31 2013 whichever occurs first.
Any non-used amount will be added to the 50MW allotment for the 2014 program.
The domestic content has been reduced to installation and local BOS components only.
I wonder how Ontario manufacturers will survive?