Wellington County and Guelph Ont. – Today, Wellington County Council approved the installation of rooftop solar systems and electric heat pumps in various County-owned residential housing buildings throughout the City of Guelph. These projects highlight the County's commitment to reducing energy costs and combating climate change.
Rooftop solar photovoltaic systems will be installed at 411 Waterloo Avenue, 263 Speedvale Avenue East, and 33 Marlborough Avenue. These systems will generate approximately 6.5 million kWh of clean electricity over their 25-year lifespan, reducing over 4,100 tons of CO2 emissions—the equivalent of planting 940 acres of trees. The initiative is anticipated to save approximately $885,325 in electricity expenses, with an additional $83,210 in savings through the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit.
Complementing the solar initiative, the County will install electric heat pumps at 130 Grange Street. These energy-efficient systems will provide heating and cooling for individual units, improving temperature control while reducing reliance on traditional baseboard heaters which will reduce energy consumption and costs.
“These investments in renewable energy and energy-efficient infrastructure reflect the County’s commitment to making the best decisions for the betterment of our community,” says David Anderson, Social Services Committee Chair. “By reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, we’re creating a healthier environment and achieving significant cost savings.”
Together, these projects underline the County’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, supporting its Strategic Action Plan and environmental goals. Construction is set to begin in 2025.
- 30-
Media Contact:
Dave Purdy
Housing Services Director
519.837.3620 x 4040
davep@wellington.ca