The average lifetime of a PV module can be in excess of 20 years, crystalline silicon modules in particular have a very long life span. In addition, they require very little maintenance. Other system components will have a varied lifespan, for example batteries in stand-alone systems can last between 2 and 15 years depending on type.
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7. Are wind turbines noisy or interfere with TV reception?
Wind turbines are not noisy. It is possible to stand underneath a turbine and hold a conversation without having to raise your voice. As wind speed rises, the noise of the wind masks the noise made by wind turbines. Wind turbines do not interfere with TV reception.
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8. How much does wind energy cost?
Over the last 20 years, the cost of electricity from utility-scale wind systems has dropped by more than 80%. In the early 1980s, when the first utility-scale turbines were installed, wind-generated electricity cost as much as 30 cents per kilowatt-hour. Now, state-of-the-art wind power plants can generate electricity for less than 8 cents/kWh.
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9. How long do wind turbines last?
A wind turbine typically lasts around 20-25 years. During this time, as with a car, some parts may need replacing.
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10.
Do wind turbines bother wildlife?
Wind turbines coexist peacefully with wildlife. Deer and cattle habitually graze under wind turbines, and sheep seek shelter around them. While birds tend to collide with man-made structures such as electrical power lines, masts, or buildings, they are very rarely affected directly by wind turbines.
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11. What can a backup power system operate?
A backup power system can operate indoor and outdoor lighting, refrigerators, security equipment, alarm systems, computers, office equipment, communications equipment, radios, furnace system blowers, television and some water pumping.
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12.
What is a backup power system made up of?
A backup power system is made up of:
Batteries: used to store power. The more battery capacity you have, the longer it will run your loads.
Inverter/Charger: the inverter changes the direct current (DC) power in the batteries into alternating current (AC) which can be used by your loads.
Power Transfer Systems: choose either the inverter or the utility power to supply your loads. Some mid-size systems are designed to plug into the wall outlet, and the loads plug into the system so power will be supplied by either the utility company or batteries. These systems switch from utility power to backup in mille-second to ensure continuity of service and prevent data loss.
Alternative Charging Methods: photovoltaic (solar panels) readily interface with these systems for long term use.
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13. What incentives does the Ontario government provide for alternative energy?
Canadian government has identified the need to increase support for alternative and renewable energy. The Ontario government provides the following tax incentives for clean, alternative or renewable electricity generation facilities:
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corporate retail sales tax rebate for building materials
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100 per cent corporate tax write-offs for the cost of newly acquired system as an asset
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capital tax exemption for newly acquired system as an asset
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Net-Metering program
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Standard Offer Contract
The government is offering a retail sales tax (RST/PST) rebate on the purchase of a residential solar energy system, or on any expansions or upgrades to an existing system installed into a residential premise.
The government is proposing to extend the RST/PST rebate to include residential wind energy systems, micro-hydroelectric systems or geothermal heating/cooling systems. For detailed information or to claim the provincial sales tax rebate, contact the nearest Ontario Ministry of Finance Tax Office listed under Taxes - Provincial (Retail) Sales Tax in the blue pages of your phone directory, or call the TAX FAX Service at 1-877-482-9329, or visit the Ministry of Finance web site at www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca.
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