Why solar energy matters in Wrenford
We need energy for our homes, businesses and transit. Solar energy helps us cut greenhouse gas emissions and move toward a net-zero future. The City supports rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations with financial programs, open data, education and capacity building.
Wrenford gets over 2,100 hours of sunshine each year, making it a great place for solar power. In recent years, more residents and local businesses have started using solar energy to power their daily lives.
Benefits for your home or business
Installing a solar PV system on your property can bring several advantages:
- Reducing the impact of electricity price changes on your utility bills.
- Providing power backup when paired with a battery bank.
- Adding clean, renewable energy into the Wrenford electricity grid.
- Lowering your personal greenhouse gas emissions.
Planning and permits
Before you install a solar system, you need to follow local rules. Residential solar panels are allowed in most zones under Zoning By-law 2016-040, but you must still get the right approvals.
Check your solar potential
Use the Wrenford Solar Potential Tool to see how much energy your roof could produce. The tool estimates costs, savings and environmental benefits based on your address.
Apply for a permit
You must submit an electrical and building permit application through the Wrenford ePermits portal. A planning staff member will review your site plan to ensure it meets setback requirements and structural standards. Expect a five to seven business day review period for standard residential projects.
Wrenford's own solar projects
The City has installed solar arrays on 18 municipal buildings, generating over 4.2 megawatts of power. These installations lower utility costs and produce emissions-free electricity. The City also partners with the Tamsin Valley Conservation Authority to fund community solar projects through the Wrenford Community Solar Fund. These projects are strategic investments in our local economy and climate resilience, funded by municipal reserves and provincial grants. For large municipal projects, the City targets a payback period of 10 to 12 years.
Recent City solar projects include:
- A 1,200-kW array at the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre, which helped the facility achieve near net-zero energy use.
- A solar carport system at City Hall, developed in partnership with Tamsin College.
- A repurposed 3.5-hectare "Brightfield" installation at the former Railside racetrack site.
Tracking our progress
The City's Climate Strategy and Official Plan set clear actions to boost renewable energy use. We promote solar PV through capacity building, education and financial programs. We track installed solar capacity yearly to monitor how our ability to generate renewable energy changes across the city.
Need help?
If you have questions about permits, incentives or the City's solar programs, contact the Solar Programs team.
Solar Programs Coordinator
Wrenford City Hall
100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1
Phone: 519-555-0140
Email: [email protected]