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Solar power


There’s no shortage of sunlight in Manitoba. It has the potential to give us abundant, clean energy while cutting dependence on non-renewable energy. The problem is harnessing this energy efficiently and economically.


Photovoltaic energy


Most solar electrical systems convert sunlight to direct current (DC) electricity using photovoltaic cells. The energy is stored by charging batteries. To power common appliances, DC must be converted to alternating current (AC) using an inverter.

Currently, Manitoba Hydro doesn’t consider solar electrical power to be cost-effective in Manitoba where grid-connected electricity or natural gas are readily available. (1)

The key disadvantages of solar electrical systems are

  • solar electrical power equipment is expensive compared to standard-grid electricity
  • Manitoba's highest energy requirements occur in winter when we have the least sunlight hours

Currently, Manitoba does not have programs to promote residential or commercial installations of solar energy. (2)


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Passive solar energy


Using passive solar energy can make a sizeable difference in energy bills even if photovoltaic solar power may not yet make economic sense in Manitoba.

Passive solar systems collect and use solar energy without using any external energy.

Most passive solar systems involve designing a building and its windows to make optimal use of sunlight for daylighting, space heating, and even space cooling.

Basically, sunlight passes through a window (south-facing windows are most efficient), hits an object, energy is absorbed, and is converted to heat.

Once in, a well-insulated and air-tight building will help keep the heat in. The heat can then be distributed with a ceiling fan or forced-air furnace fan.

Using building envelope upgrades alone, up to 25 percent of a building’s heating needs can be met with passive solar techniques. (3)