Nautilus Solar Canada (Nautilus Solar) is an independent solar power producer (IPP) that develops, constructs, finances, owns and operates distributed generation and utility-scale solar electric systems in Canada and the United States. In 2011, Nautilus Solar took steps to develop their solar energy portfolio by installing three solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, totaling 1.25 megawatts (MW) under the Ontario Power Authority’s (“OPA”) Feed-in-Tariff (“FIT”) program. Under the FIT program, the OPA purchases electricity produced from a solar energy producer for a fixed rate over a 20-year period.

AGT Solar (AGT) was hired to provide engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services by Nautilus for the three solar PV systems on top of buildings owned by E&E McLaughlin Ltd. in Ontario, Canada. AGT designed the rooftop solar electric system using Suniva Monocrystalline solar panels and a lightweight HB Racking system. The completed solar electric system met rooftop weight requirements and did not penetrate the pre-existing rooftop. By not penetrating the roof AGT was able to maintain the roof warranty and water seal.

AGT completed the project in less than four months and met budget requirements. By leveraging key relationships with suppliers, AGT was able to procure the system components in a timely fashion while satisfying FIT domestic content requirements. In addition, AGT’s good working relationship with Canadian municipalities ensured a successful acquisition of building and electrical permits; saving the client both time and money.

The completed solar arrays will produce up to 657,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity and reduce carbon emissions by more than 120 tons annually (2,400 tons over 20 years), which can earn Nautilus Solar up to $400,000 in revenue per year ($8 million over 20 years) under the OPA FIT program.