Solar Hot Water Project

The Okanagan chapter of the BC Sustainable Energy Association (BCSEA) and the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity have agreed that the local BCSEA chapter will provide a Habitat home with a solar water heating system. The system will provide the low-income working family who will live in the home with a high quality, low maintenance solar hot water system which will reduce their use of energy by several thousand kilowatt hours per year. Such a system is an excellent "hedge" against higher energy prices since the sun is a free energy source.

Swiss Solar Tech, a Summerland-based firm, has agreed to install the system, which will include two solar panels and other components to provide a good portion of the hot water for the residence. BCSEA volunteers are also helping with the installation. The mandate of the BCSEA is to advocate for sustainable energy and to help educate the public and government decision-makers about the environmental and economic benefits of using alternate energy sources.

The Okanagan Chapter of the BCSEA would appreciate the assistance of any individuals or businesses who are able to donate funds towards this project. The total cost is anticipated to be approximately five thousand dollars and we anticipate the system will be installed Fall 2008.

For further information please contact John Suttie (Phone 250-861-6734) or Dion Torhjelm (250-860-1925) of the Okanagan Chapter of the B.C. Sustainable Energy Association.