A solar energy project on the roof of the Optimist Recreation Centre costing $800,000 could generate up to $2-million in revenue for the township over the next 20 years.
That was the message Michael Kozdras, of Ontario Solar Professionals (OSP), relayed to council recently.
He explained OSP, which is owned by his brother, Richard Kozdras, and located in nearby Morriston, could design and maintain a photo voltaic system for the township.
The actual production, construction and installation of the panels would be contracted to other local companies, he added.
“If we do this right, this system will be safe and it will be reliable … throughout the life of the project,” Kozdras told council.
He proposed a project over 100 kilowatts in size, which would produce $100,000 per year in revenue for 20 years. The project would come with a 25-year warranty, though many last for 30 year, Kozdras said.
The system would likely cost about $800,000 leaving the township with $1.2-million in net revenue, minus costs for maintenance and insurance, he said.
Councillor Jerry Schmidt said the numbers provided by Kozdras sound “impressive,” but councillor Ken Roth was more sceptical.
“The figures don’t fit. I know it’s green energy and all, but they don’t fit,” Roth said, adding he doesn’t understand how the government can pay a higher rate for “green” energy. He also wondered what will happen if the Liberal government loses this fall’s provincial election.
Kozdras said the contract with the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) would be a commercial one, so it shouldn’t matter what party is in power. He also suggested the current OPA rates for solar projects are close to what regular electricity rates will be in 20 years.
Councillor Wayne Stokley said he is in favour of renewable energy, but more research is needed to determine what system, if any, is best for Puslinch and the recreation centre.
Mayor Dennis Lever echoed that sentiment, saying the township also needs financial details over and above the “rough” figures provided by Kozdras.
Lever said council would discuss the proposal at a later date.
