a demonstrated partner in providing

complete solar solutions

quick facts on ethosolar

the ethosolar story

• North American company with offices in Canada and the USA

• Established in 2009• Incorporated in 2010• Good Standing Member of CanSIA and OSEA• Over 500 (8 MW) solar projects installed

Established in 2009 EthoSolar is a 360-degree solar energy solution provider. We offer complete grid-tied solar solutions for fixed and tracking systems for both roof and ground mount applications. As leaders in the North American solar industry, we have established a strong presence within commercial, agricultural, land development, institutional and residential markets.

EthoSolar is committed to providing the system that best fits the needs of each individual client. We have installed over 500 PV solar projects serving commercial, agriculture and residential markets throughout several communities.

EthoSolar is dedicated to making each investment in clean, renewable energy as profitable and seamless as possible.

EthoSolar is founded upon our desire as a team to share the opportunity for solar with other businesses and communities across North America. We keep the installation process simple while integrating industry leading technology that ensures the best return possible for each project. We also work hard to help each customer install the system and type of equipment that is right for their property and budget.

In order to remain a leader in this fast-paced, ever innovating industry, EthoSolar has developed strategic alliances with both Supply Partners and Finance Partners. We can provide our customers with high performing systems and the financing required to bring projects to realization.

EthoSolar is committed to a lasting presence within the North American solar industry while building a reputation for integrity and service.

OUR VISION

To bring a brighter tomorrow by engaging our employees to leave an enduring legacy of sustainability through renewable energy solutions for future generations.

OUR MISSION

To be a company of creative forward thinkers who produce quality products and services that exceed our customer needs and contribute towards a cleaner environment.

the basics of pv solarSETTING THE SOLAR STORY STRAIGHTEditorial Credit: pv magazine | www.pv-magazine.com

solar is getting cheaper

The cost of solar energy is falling fast. Since 1980, there has been an average reduction of seven percent per year in the cost per watt of solar cells. One of the most common myths is that solar is too expensive. This myth merely looks at the current price of solar or uses price assumptions which are based on average module prices over the past five years.

solar reduces electricity costs long term

During hours of peak electricity demand, utilities charge a premium rate for electricity. As more solar capacity is added, wholesale prices are reduced during peak hours. An oft-repeated myth is that solar is raising costs for consumers. But where is the money going? Data from Germany show that most of the subsidies flow on to households, business owners and farmers.

solar generates a net surplus of energy

A certain amount of energy is required to produce a solar installation. A large installation ‘pays back’ this energy debt 1.5 to 2.5 years and generates 10 to 20 times this amount of energy in its lifetime. One persistent myth is that solar requires more energy to manufacture than it produces. Although true in the 1970s when the technology was in its infancy, this has been untrue for decades.

solar still works on cloudy days

It has been shown that some solar modules are actually more efficient in low light conditions. One well-worn myth is that solar does not work in cloudy conditions. On the contrary, on a cloudy day a solar system will produce about half of what it does on a sunny day. Actually, many countries with cloud cover like Germany, China and Canada are embracing solar energy.

solar is becoming competitive with fossil fuels

In 2010 the price of solar fell below that of nuclear energy. Now it is clearly on track to fall below fossil fuels too. A common myth says solar cannot compete with fossil fuels on price. When one factors in the environmental and health costs of coal, it is actually more expensive than solar already. But even without factoring these in, solar is still set to surpass fossil fuels as its costs plummet.

SOLAR 101

As the sun burns the hydrogen at its core, it releases immense amounts of energy. This energy is radiated to the Earth in the form of heat and light. We use the term “solar energy” to describe our ability to harness this energy through man-made devices. Using the sun’s energy to work is not new. Solar technologies, both primitive and advanced, have been used in all ages and every part of the world. As a result of these technologies, the possibilities for solar energy are expanding as we search for innovative ways to harness solar energy to warm houses, heat water and air, and generate electricity.

BENEFITS OF PRODUCING SOLAR ENERGY

environmental

Solar energy production has significant benefits for the environment. The energy generated is both clean and renewable. It can be used to supply needs currently met by coal-fired generation. The production of solar energy emits virtually no CO2 in the production process. System components can be recycled after their average 40 year lifespan, producing minimal waste.

sustainable

Unlike coal, solar energy is both an unlimited resource and a free resource. There is no fear of it running out or rising costs. Solar energy average yields are predictable and constant.

profitable

There is considerable profit and money savings potential through generating renewable energy whether you apply for a Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) contract or utilize a net metering program with your local utility company. Incentive programs provide an opportunity to generate passive income based on the production of your installed solar PV system. Net metering reduces your electricity bill by using the renewable energy your system generates and feeding excess energy back into the grid.

In order to best harness a solar PV system’s capabilities, consideration must be paid towards what programs are available, your energy consumption, the current cost of components, and the available space for a roof or ground mount system installation on your property.

what goes into our pv solar systems

SYSTEM COMPONENTS

EthoSolar is selective in choosing which products we include as part of our designed systems. Each supplier/manufacturer we work with is evaluated based on the following criteria at minimum:

1. durability and quality in engineering2. price, performance, and profitability ratios compared with

alternative solutions3. proven performance guarantees, and customer service

metrics, and product warranties

solar panels: Photovoltaic panels or modules are made of semiconductors that convert sunlight directly into electricity. PV modules provide a safe, reliable, maintenance-free and environmentally-friendly source of power for a considerable amount of time.

inverters: PV cells generate direct current (DC), but most common appliances require alternating current (AC). An inverter is used to convert low-voltage DC to higher voltage AC. As the core intelligence centre of a solar PV system, the inverter can convert the DC output from the array to AC power that can be synchronized with the local utility. This feature makes it possible to feed electricity directly back into the grid.

racking: Solar panels are mounted using racking, which can be either ballasted or penetrating depending on the equipment. The type of roof space and pitch will determine the best racking solution for each particular project.

EVALUATING ROOF SPACE

Careful attention must be paid to the site analysis for each project. When designing roof mount systems we look for the following suitable conditions:

• Orientation: South or South-West• Existing equipment may have taken up roof space• Shading: none or very little• Roof condition: membrane should last at least for 20 years• Structural capacity: roof structure must allow for additional

3-7 psf load to accommodate dead and wind load and possible additional snow accumulation

PROJECT PROGRESSION

The highest impact decisions are made during the early stages. Site analysis will determine how best to proceed while understanding what makes sense for each customer.

1. Evaluate site and roof space2. Prepare preliminary system design3. Apply for permits4. Apply for a government incentive program or a net metering

program with your Local Distribution Company5. Update and finalize system design with latest components

and system sizing expectations6. Construct project7. Commission project8. Ensure system operates at maximum capacity with annual

Maintenance ProgramPV System Component Legend(1) Solar Array (2) Inverter (3) Electrical Service Panel (4) Grid

what our customers are saying“We chose EthoSolar as our partner in PV for several reasons. The team was well educated and took time to teach us about solar. EthoSolar is a reputable company, which translated well when dealing with our bank. EthoSolar continually seeks opportunities for designing more efficient PV systems and demonstrates their commitment to innovation through research and staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and best installation practices. It is difficult to expand in the dairy industry since land is expensive and quota being difficult to come by. Investing in solar through a Feed-in-Tariff program provided our family and our business an opportunity to generate a second source of income. We recommend anyone seeking to diverse their land use or optimize on unused rooftop space to contact EthoSolar and learn more about their options.” - Marten Dykstra, Dunnville

“I was looking not only at the ROI, but the income stability that comes from diversifying through solar. EthoSolar worked to meet my requirements. They answered all the questions well, and modified the system to suit my needs. Most companies say here’s our system, take it or leave it, but EthoSolar says let’s work with you and get the system that you want.” - Don Van Damme, Alvinston

It has been a little over a year since our panels were installed and they are working great. The system has produced exactly what was expected. EthoSolar was a pleasure to work with from start to finish of our project. If you are considering investing in solar, we recommend contacting EthoSolar as a proven partner in providing complete PV solar solutions for businesses and farmers.” - Benjamin Bartley, B.Sc.(Agr.), Harriston

“Setterington’s mission statement includes “to make our customers more successful”, hence the reason we got into solar. The success we have experienced in solar has developed our business beyond our typical customer base. EthoSolar was a comfortable fit for us given their family-owned company culture along with the high-end, reliable suppliers that EthoSolar has developed strong partnerships with. EthoSolar is dedicated and flexible while serving their customers. EthoSolar has remained committed to helping customers move ahead with their renewable energy goals and investments. As a dealer we are delighted with the performance of EthoSolar. There are challenges, but the pay-backs have proven well worth the effort. We at Setterington’s look forward to continuing our working relationship with EthoSolar.” - Jamie Nash, Leamington

taking advantage of solar programs

FEED-IN-TARIFF PROGRAMS

earn passive income through renewable energy generation

Governments around the world have established Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) programs to motivate organizations and individuals alike to invest in renewable energy production. FIT programs involve standardized program rules, prices and contracts for eligible participants interested in developing a qualifying renewable energy project. Prices are designed to cover project costs and allow for a reasonable return on investment over the contract term.

Based on the available FIT program’s rates, declining cost of solar system components and the opportunity to finance your project outright - there remains a strong business case for harnessing the power of the sun while generating a passive income through a FIT program.

NET METERING

save on energy costs through onsite solar power

Net metering programs differ between State/Province government organizations and utility companies. In its most basic definition net metering typically involves spinning your meter backwards by generating your own energy, for example, with the installation of solar power. You are billed for the “net“ difference between consumption minus generation.

The maximum system size for net metering projects is different between each State/Province.

There are multiple savings, which can include:

• Reduce the electricity you buy from the grid as well as delivery/regulatory charges, depending on your local program.

• If you supply more power than you take from the grid, you will receive a credit towards future bills.

• The more electricity you produce, the greater your savings.

contact EthoSolar to learn what programs exist in your community

1.855.207.5500 | info@ethosolar.com

TAX CREDITS

receive tax advantages from your investment in solar

Federal and state/provincial governments have developed tax credits as a means to increase investment in renewable energy and assist with the cost of solar systems. These tax credits vary between countries and states/provinces. Much like Feed-in-Tariffs, tax credits enable customers to receive a higher return on investment and participate in green energy generation.

SOLAR RENEWABLE ENERGY CREDITS (SRECS)

receive additional income through credits based on solar production

Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), also known as carbon credits, represent the renewable attributes of solar generation, bundled in minimum denominations of one megawatt-hour (MWh) of production.

Individual state programs allow SRECs to be created and verified, enabling electric suppliers to buy these certificates in order to meet their solar Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requirements. All electric suppliers must use SRECs to demonstrate compliance with the RPS. The price of SRECs is determined primarily by market availability. SRECs are minted for 10 years from the commercial operation date of the solar system. Simply put, you can sell these SRECs and have an additional source of income for 10 years.

REMOTE NET METERING

offset energy costs at more than one location

Remote net metering allows energy consumers with renewable electric generating equipment at one location to utilize their excess generation to reduce their electric bills on accounts at other locations.

NOT ALL PROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE IN ALL STATES OR PROVINCES.

EthoSolar Inc.560 Anne Street North, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4M 4S4

Toll Free 1.855.207.5500Of�ce 705.252.9155Fax 705.722.6769Email info@ethosolar.comWeb www.ethosolar.com

EthoSolar USA Inc.225 Cedar Hill Street, Suite 200, Marlborough, MA 01752

Toll Free 1.855.207.5500Of�ce 774.314.7790Fax 705.722.6769Email info.usa@ethosolar.comWeb www.ethosolar.com/usa

“EthoSolar’s mission within the renewable industry is not just to provide a solution but to BE the solution. We understand that this is about a long-term relationship with our clients as well as our business partners. We are committed to building on those relationships in order to provide a reliable, innovative and competitive solution every time.”

- Jeremy DeSota CEO & President of EthoSolar Inc.

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