WHITEWATER REGION (Cobden) — Last night, the Environmental Services Committee presented a report for information purposes to the Council of the Township of Whitewater Region. The report details the solar panels on municipal buildings and their associated revenue and expenses. The motion to receive the report for information purposes was carried.
According to Janet Collins, Asset Management Coordinator, the municipality has eight solar panels but installed nine solar panels on municipal buildings.
In 2018, the Whitewater Bromley Community Health Centre in Beachburg was sold to Lanark Renfrew Health & Community Services, which included the transfer of the solar panel. This is how the municipality is left with eight solar panels.
Solar panels are located on the following buildings; the Township administration office, Fire Station 2 in Cobden, Cobden sewer facility, Cobden water facility, the Ross garage, Fire Station 5 in Westmeath, Beachburg water facility and Fire Station 4 in Beachburg.
Mrs. Collins stated the total revenue generated from the eight solar panels after expenses is approximately $2.5 thousand for 2019. She also said following completion of the debenture payments in 2024, revenues from the solar panels will significantly increase. Anticipated total revenue after expenses, from 2025 to 2035, are roughly estimated at $309.6 thousand.
The overall lifespan of a solar panel is 25 to 30 years, depending on the installation conditions and type of materials used for its production. The panels will typically produce at least 80 per cent of the rated power after 20 years of use. On average, the panels degrade by about one per cent each year.
