On a remote island in Northern Ontario accessible only by float plane, Errington’s Wilderness Island has been a haven for those seeking an incredible escape since 1975. This second-generation family-owned wilderness retreat consists of a main lodge, six suites, and 10 cabins. They consistently accommodate between 30-40 guests, along with 12-14 staff members. With no accessibility to the electrical power grid, owner Al Errington was on the lookout for opportunities to enhance self-sufficiency and environmental sustainability, and to move away from the cost and hassle of diesel generators.
Exclusive Interview with Owner Al Errington!
The Quest for Solar Power
With a desire to leverage the incentives offered by the Canadian government and a commitment to environmental responsibility, Al went on a journey to find the perfect solar solution.
"I was always looking for opportunities to improve self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility," Al explains. "I looked to utilize the incentives offered by the Canadian government to encourage investment in solar solutions."
Discovering Solar Power Store Canada
Detailed Google searches led Al to several solar system providers. However, it quickly became apparent that many companies lacked the technical expertise, comprehensive product range, and full suite of services necessary for a successful solar installation.
"After reaching out to several solar system providers, it became pretty clear that many companies in this space did not stand out in having the comprehensive product range, technical expertise, and full suite of services needed to ensure a successful solar power installation while having competitive pricing," says Al.
After closely looking at Solar Power Store and comparing all the other providers against each other, the right decision quickly became clear for Al. "Solar Power Store rose above the rest due to their complete range of quality solar equipment, and the expertise to make the design and configuration process easy," Al notes.
Comprehensive Support and Expertise
The planning and installation of the solar system for Errington's Wilderness Island was no small feat. The project required a substantial electrical system in order to support the lodge, cabins, suites, and power demands of both guests and staff. Solar Power Store Canada’s comprehensive design and support services were pivotal.
"Biggest assistance that set Solar Power Store apart from the competition was complete and comprehensive solar system design and supply," Al remarks.
Furthermore, the need for a robust energy storage system allowed for a unique challenge due to Canada’s strict regulations on battery installations. The expertise and support provided by Solar Power Store Canada were highly valuable in navigating these complex challenges.
"The need for a good quality energy storage system was another major differentiating factor, and this can be a very complicated process due to the strict rules and regulations related to battery installation in Canada. Solar Power Store helped address these issues and ensure the battery portion of the system worked seamlessly with the entire solar system," Al explains.
Main Components Included in This Solar System
84 x JINKO 465W Bi-facial Solar Panels
The Eagle G4b modules utilize bifacial cells and TR technology. By minimizing white space between cells, these panels enable module power up to 465W. The bifacial design allows for energy capture from both sides of the panel, significantly enhancing overall energy yield. These panels are ideal for maximizing efficiency and performance in various environmental conditions.
24 x PYTES E BOX 48100R Battery
The E-BOX series represents the new generation of LFP batteries designed for home energy storage systems. These batteries provide a safe, well-designed, and high-performance standard LFP battery pack. They are compact, easy to install, maintenance-free, and can be deployed in parallel to build an efficient energy storage system. The E BOX 48100R batteries are widely applied in home applications, small commercial, and industrial energy storage systems, as well as Telecom stations.
2 x Sol Ark 15K Hybrid Inverter
The Sol-Ark Limitless-15K-LV is a 15,000-watt (15kW) 240Vac output hybrid inverter with a 97.5% efficiency rating. It works for both grid-connected and off-grid systems, operating as a power inverter, battery charger, system monitor, and connection box. This inverter minimizes utility grid dependence and optimizes the balance between battery storage and renewable energy sources. It can be connected to up to 19,500 watts of solar panels, making it one of the highest-performing battery inverters on the market. The easy-to-install hybrid inverter provides continuous power for grid-tied or stand-alone solar power generation for homes and light commercial systems with 48Vdc battery backup power. It comes with a 10-year product warranty.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the challenging nature of the location, the project was executed smoothly, thanks to the thorough pre-planning and ongoing support at Solar Power Store Canada.
"Most challenges were anticipated due to thorough discussions of logistics and installation challenges previous to bidding the project. During the project, there were a few component issues, but they were resolved fairly quickly," Al shares.
He also extends special compliments to Sapir Sosnovsky for timely advice and additional components.
Achieving Beyond Expectations
Being operational now, the solar system at Wilderness Island is performing beyond Al’s expectations, delivering both reliable and consistent power. "Now that the system is up and running, it’s performing beyond expectations and is delivering consistent, reliable power for Wilderness Island and helping to support business and operation objectives in an environmentally-conscious way," says Al.
A Recommendation for Solar Power Store Canada
Al’s positive experience with us at Solar Power Store Canada’s comprehensive planning, exceptional project management, and competitive pricing leaves him confident in recommending our services to everyone.
"I would have no hesitation recommending Solar Power Store. This is particularly due to the comprehensiveness of the planning of the project. Their prices were in line with other suppliers, but their project planning set them apart from the competition," Al concludes.
Al’s journey to self-sufficiency on Wilderness Island is a true testament to the importance of thoughtful planning, expert guidance, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. Our collaboration with him really entails how innovative solar solutions can transform remote locations into both sustainable and successful solar projects.
