CANADA: Canada is known for its frigid winters and long stretches of darkness, so it may be a surprise to learn that some areas of the country receive high solar hours throughout the year.
Solar hours are the number of hours per day when the sun shines bright enough to generate usable solar energy.
While some may assume that the further south you go, the more solar hours you’ll receive, a few factors make certain areas of Canada surprisingly solar-friendly.
One of the main factors is Canada’s relatively low population density. While densely populated areas like cities have plenty of rooftops and other surfaces that can harness solar energy, they’re also more likely to be shaded by tall buildings, trees, and other structures.
In contrast, many areas of Canada that receive high solar hours have a low population density and many open lands, allowing maximum sun exposure.
Another factor is Canada’s climate. While winters can be harsh in many parts of the country, the clear, cold days that come with them can be ideal for solar energy production.
Cold days are ideal because solar panels operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures.
Extremely hot temperatures can reduce a solar panel’s efficiency, so areas with moderate temperatures and plenty of sunlight are often the best for solar energy production.
Additionally, Canada’s long summer days provide plenty of opportunities for solar energy production.
During the summer solstice around June 21st, some areas of Canada experience up to 16 hours of daylight.
This extended daylight allows for more time for solar panels to collect energy, even if the sun isn’t shining at full strength for the entire day.
Finally, certain areas of Canada are located in what’s known as the “sunbelt.” The term refers to a region that receives high levels of direct sunlight throughout the year.
While the sunbelt is typically associated with southern U.S. states, parts of Canada also fall within this region.
For example, the southern regions of British Columbia and Alberta receive more than 2,000 hours of sunlight per year, making them some of the sunniest areas in the country.
While Canada may not be the first place you think of when it comes to solar energy, these factors make it clear that the country has plenty of potential for solar energy production.
Canada’s government has set a goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, and solar energy will likely play a significant role in achieving this goal.
With the proper infrastructure and policies in place, Canada could become a leader in solar energy production in the years to come.
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