I was fortunate to attend the OPA open house last week in Ottawa. At that point the OPA has received over 8500 applications and they are currently processing applications submitted in February.It was stated that the current processing time for new applications is in the range of two to three months. Therefore, when planning a solar installation this year, this delay needs to be considered. The window to install is getting shorter as the summer approaches, and we hope that they will ramp up to accomodate the backlog so that new applicants do not have to wait this long.  

Here we would like to share our thoughts on why today is the best time to get involved.

Today, installers are able to offer cost competitive solutions because we can offer packages of solar panels and inverters from manufacturers around the world. This year most installers meet domestic content requirements by including Ontario made mounting hardware. Next year, in 2011 to meet the 60% requirements , installers will have to include Ontario manufactured solar panels. As of today, there may only be one or two solar panels manufacturers operational.As a result we are afraid of shortages and high prices.  By 2011 the OPA will review the program and offered rates are likely to be reduced.

Additionally, note that, current processing time for new microFIT applications is about two months and with the introduction of the HST on July 1^st 2010, solar installations completed prior to that date will be taxed at GST (5%). Starting July 1^st applicable taxes will be the HST(13%).

Therefore now or spring 2010 is the best time to get involved to save on installation costs and obtain a very good rate of 80.2 cent per kilowatt/hour generated.

There is a lot of curiosity about the Ontario Feed-In Tariff program so we decided to list the key benefits.

• Program is a secure and low risk investment that can provide a very good rate of return over the 20 year contract duration for yourself and your family;
• Very competitive with other forms of investing such as stocks, bonds and property;
• Adds resale value to your property;
• After the contract expires, property owners can use the energy generated to offset energy costs for another 10-20 years since the current life expectancy of solar panels is up to 40 years;
• Very popular program: Since the program was launched October 1, 2009, the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) has received over 5000 applications for the FIT and microFIT programs combined;
• Solutions are available for residential, commercial and agricultural properties;
• Helps to reduce green house gas emissions and coal fired plants
• Helps to develop economic activity and create jobs in Ontario

We have come to a point where we all realize that sustainable energy solutions are THE solution. More than ever, we see new technologies emerging aiming towards the same environmentally friendly goals, and quite frankly, it is only a beginning and a promising one we can assure you!

Genuine Energy Inc. has this common mission: To make our environment as clean and efficient as possible. Our products and services are in constant evolution. New ways and new technologies are integrated into our selection, thus offering long lasting and efficient energy solutions.

Genuine Energy keeps track of new incentives to keep you informed with offerings you could perhaps qualify for.

The mission of this blog is to share information about new technologies and procedures to improve sustainability. It might not necessarily relate to energy, as you all know that sustainability touches every field.

We are a business, yes, but we have chosen this field based on our concern for the environment and the future of future generations.

Through this blog, you will be provided with media and links related to the environment and touching many concerns around the world. We may or not share their opinion, this remains yours to make.

We hope you find this blog to your liking and for further information about Genuine Energy Inc., please visit our website at www.genuineenergy.ca