The IESO (the new name for the Ontario Power Authority) started accepting applications for FIT 4 projects with proposed capacities ranging between 10 and 500 kilowatts (kW). The window for submitting FIT applications was October 5, 2015 to October 23, 2015.
Having already done our homework early on, CPN submitted applications for two projects on the very first day (Oct 5th), when the window opened. The two sites are 1) the Keeler Centre in Colborne, and 2) a privately-owned storage site on Dale Road near Highway 28.
All FIT 4 applications are based on a 22 cent tariff which is a significant drop from the 53.9 cent tariff we received for our three Fit 2 projects that are up and running now. However, solar panel prices have dropped significantly in the past two years and our models predict that it is still very worthwhile for CPN to pursue these projects.
If CPN is successful in its applications (the news for which may come as early as February of next year), we will switch into high gear to solicit help from you, our membership, to raise the $1M needed to construct the two projects. Please consider how you can help us be successful in these new energy initiatives — remember CPN is your cooperative and these are your projects. Become involved and help us make Northumberland a sustainable energy community.
We would love to hear from you. So please reply (below) and we’ll publish your comments.