Heating System

These solar panels on our roof provide the energy needed to power our heating system.

Our building is heated primarily through solar energy distributed through radiant in-floor heating. On the roof, there are 2 rows of 6 solar panels.  The panels are recycled, and were refitted by  Thermo Dynamics Ltd in Dartmouth, NS, one of the world's leading developers of solar technology.  The system was installed by Dr. Solar.

The panels use sunlight to heat water by heating a metal Sunstrip that in turn heats a glycol solution (a mixture of antifreeze and water) that is then pumped through a heat exchanger in the basement. The pump is run by a small photovoltaic panel. The heat is  transferred to pipes filled with water, which is then heated and circulated throughout the building, warming the concrete floors. The floors act as a thermal mass, collecting and holding the heat.

When the water is not heated sufficiently with solar heat, we have a small electric boiler that will supplement the heating system. The split between solar and electric is expected to be 60/40. The heat can be regulated on each floor. We are monitoring our energy use closely and have installed 4 extra hot water tanks that act as hot water storage to save for rainy days.

Despite the larger initial investment in comparison to an oil furnace, our solar system will pay for itself after seven years, which will result in long-term economic savings.

Built Environment Committee

Phone: (902) 429-2202
Fax: (902) 405-3716

The Built Environment Committee meets the second Thursday of every month at 5:30pm at the EAC. All are welcome at our monthly meeting.