The New Border Crossing Station At Stanstead, Quebec, Uses Innovative Grid Connected Photovoltaic System To Reduce Its Electricity Use

Matrix Energy is pleased to announce the installation and commissioning of Canada Customs and Revenue Agency’s (CCRA) grid-tied photovoltaic system at its new border crossing facility in Stanstead, Quebec. This new, state of the art border crossing facilty is now using world-class solar technology to help generate over 16000 kWh of energy annually.

Brian Wilkinson, President of Matrix Energy said “We are pleased to have the opportunity, with the Stanstead project and others, to demonstrate how photovoltaic systems can reduce a building’s carbon footprint while providing long term operating benefits. Canada Custom’s and Revenue Agency took the initiative along with Matrix to tackle the new border station’s energy needs through the use of a grid connected photovoltaic system in a functional and aesthetic manner.”

In April 2007 Matrix Energy completed the installation and commissioned this 8.4 kWp grid connected photovoltaic system comprised of forty-eight, Solarworld SW Series, 175 watt solar modules that were ballast mounted on the membrane roof. The total array was divided into three separate solar arrays each feeding individual 3kW Fronius inverters.

In addition to the energy savings created by this system, the environmental benefits will have a positive impact on the community since the useful lifetime of the system is over 40 years. This highly visible solar system demonstrates Canada’s commitment to promoting renewable technologies due to the more than 385,000 cars and trucks that will now use this border each year.

Grid-tied photovoltaic systems can be easily replicated across other non-residential and residential buildings across Canada. Over its useful lifetime of more than 40 years, one 100 watt solar module operating in Canada will produce more than 10 mWh of power.

Matrix is committed to deliver high quality products and services to suit client needs while making solid contributions to reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions. All applications are environmentally friendly and energy efficient.