Abstract

Determining the solar energy potential on a surface depends on geographical location, prevailing meteorological conditions, size, shape and orientation of a surface. In urban areas shading is an important parameter, given the density of buildings and must be considered in an evaluation of available irradiation. This thesis develops an integrated workflow for modelling and mapping solar energy potentials in urban areas. This was accomplished through a case study of a typical large urban centre - The City of Toronto, using 3-D building models and selected software tools. The developed workflow was applied and successfully modelled the solar energy potential of buildings in the selected case study area. The results allowed for further characterization of the main factors affecting solar energy potentials on building surfaces in urban areas. This preliminary study indicates that, in comparison to HVAC systems and green roofs, shading may be a less important factor to consider when estimating solar energy potentials in some urban settings.

Highlights

  • The Province of Ontario is entering a new era in energy generation

  • In the Results section a discussion of the results shown by the solar access analysis or (SAA) for each building analyzed will be discussed

  • This chapter will begin with a discussion of the general findings from the Solar Access Analysis and some limitation experienced within Ecotect

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Summary

Introduction

The Province of Ontario is entering a new era in energy generation. The authorities involved in planning and decision making are being forced to rebuild key parts of the province's electricity infrastructure. The main planning documents the Integrated Power System Plan (IPSP) and Supply Mix Directives will be presented This information is necessary to frame the remaining sections which present the energy related challenges currently being faced by the Ontario Government and associated institutions. A separate section will discuss the most recent solution passed by the Government, that of the Green Energy and Economy Act, 2009 and the new feed-in-tariff (FIT) program designed to increase renewable supply. The general purpose of this act was to "ensure the adequacy, safety, sustainability and reliability of electricity supply in Ontario" (Electricity Act, 1998, Sec. l(a)) This legislation created a new entity under the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) called the Ontario Power Authority or OPA

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