Amid a significant 34% increase in electricity rates, the Yukon Conservation Society is urging Yukon residents to take control of their energy production. The non-profit organization has utilized social media platforms to promote the use of plug-in solar panels, a technology that is gaining popularity due to escalating energy expenses. While plug-in solar panels are not yet allowed in Canada due to the absence of formal standards and hesitancy from provinces, territories, and utilities, the Yukon Conservation Society is advocating for their adoption.
Sebastian Jones, a fish, wildlife, and habitat analyst at the Yukon Conservation Society, highlighted the frustration among many individuals over escalating utility bills and the Yukon government’s indefinite suspension of the microgeneration program. Jones explained that individuals can easily acquire solar panels and an inverter from retailers like Canadian Tire, set up a dedicated circuit, and start utilizing solar energy.
The issuance of permits for connecting home solar panels in Yukon was halted in 2023 after the devices began causing disruptions in the electrical grid. Yukon Energy faced challenges managing rapid solar fluctuations caused by weather changes, affecting the grid’s functionality. While Yukon Energy has not taken steps to update the grid to accommodate solar power, Jones views plug-in solar as a temporary solution that does not require complex installation procedures.
Wayne Potoroka from Yukon’s Community Services department emphasized that using uncertified electrical equipment, such as plug-in solar panels, is illegal in Canada. Yukon Energy refrained from taking a stance on plug-in solar given its current prohibition.
Former senior Yukon Energy engineer John Maissan expressed concerns about potential electrical hazards if individuals directly connect solar systems to home outlets. However, he remains optimistic about the future of renewable energy in the territory, citing the potential of batteries to absorb excess energy and stabilize the grid against solar power fluctuations. A grid-scale battery project is under development, with Yukon Energy indicating that the Whitehorse battery project is nearing completion.
Inspired by Germany’s “guerrilla solar” movement, Jones believes that proactive adoption of plug-in solar could compel the government to expedite modernization efforts. Meanwhile, the introduction of a bill by Utah state representative Raymond Ward legalized plug-in solar in Utah, marking a shift towards solar energy in the state. Ward highlighted the cost-effectiveness and self-sufficiency benefits of plug-in solar technology, contrasting it with traditional solar panel installations that can be expensive.
Advocacy groups like the Calgary Climate Hub have launched campaigns urging Canadian policymakers to embrace plug-in solar technology. While some concerns have been raised, proponents point to successful implementations in countries like Germany and Utah. The momentum around plug-in solar is growing globally, with increasing interest in Canada over the past year. Joe Vipond from the Calgary Climate Hub emphasized the importance of ensuring legal compliance and safety standards in the adoption of plug-in solar technology.