Page - October 17, 2006
Solar power is taking off in many countries, but despite its potential, is lagging behind in Canada.
Around the world, innovative projects have resulted in a huge
boost for solar power. Germany's 1,000 Rooftop Program resulted in
more than 2,250 rooftop installations between 1990 and 1995, with
subsequent programs creating additional growth.
In Japan, supportive government policies and significant
investment in research and development have resulted in the
widespread use of solar power. Japan now has photovoltaic systems
on thousands of schools, hospitals, factories, offices and railway
stations.
Unfortunately, as with wind power, Canada is lagging behind the
rest of the world. Canada's per capita spending on solar cells is
one-sixth the global average. Canada does, however, have
significant potential for solar power. The largest solar resources
in the country can be found in southern Ontario, Quebec and the
Prairies.