FAQ
To help simplify all the information provided on this website, we have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about solar energy and the Hillsvale Solar Energy Project. Learn more below!
If you have any additional questions that are not addressed below, please feel free to reach out to us using the contact page.
SWEB is an independent power producer who is headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia. (SWEB) is rooted in the idea that community matters and ownership makes a difference in the world of energy transition. SWEB has been developing, constructing, and operating renewable energy projects throughout Canada and the USA for over a decade. SWEB is part of the W.E.B international group of companies. The group has over 25 years of community-based renewable energy project experience and over 650+ MW of projects in operation worldwide, including approximately 40 MW of renewable energy projects in communities across Nova Scotia.
SWEB is proposing a ~5 megawatt (MW) AC solar energy project in the West Hants Regional Municipality that will consist of solar panel arrays, steel mounting racks, access roads, and electrical equipment connecting the project to the utility’s grid.
The Project will complete its key permitting process through a Development Agreement with the Municipality. In addition to this, the Project will also complete any and all necessary provincial and federal permits that may be required.
Solar, or photovoltaic (PV), technology captures the sun’s radiation and turns it into a useful form of energy. When the sun shines onto a PV panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed and direct current (DC) electricity begins to flow. The electricity then flows to an electrical inverter that converts DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity, and finally flows onto the electrical grid. 1
Yes, all electrical components of solar panels are safely encased in glass which makes up about 76% of a typical panel. The remaining components consist of plastic polymer, aluminum, silicon, copper, silver and other metals. 2 Our solar projects incorporate panels that have been certified and tested by reputable organizations such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
Our solar projects are designed and built to rigorous safety standards including fire safety standards in compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), the International Building Code (IBC), and the International Fire Code (IFC). The Hillsvale Community Solar Project will be completely enclosed in security fencing so that no part of the system can be accessed by the public. Additionally, training will be available to local first responders regarding access, equipment, preparedness, and response in the case of an unexpected event.
Once construction is complete, the noise generated from a solar project is generally not audible above ambient noise outside of the facility fence. 3 Noise levels during the daytime are negligible and no noise is produced at night.
Solar projects are typically designed to last for 25-30 years with manufacturers typically offering warranties for the first 25 years. Solar panels are typically tested to withstand high wind speeds and heavy snow loads, and many are specifically tested to ensure they can withstand hail. They require little to no maintenance and proper operations and maintenance can lead to lower degradation and offer longer performance. 4
The Hillsvale Community Solar Project will create and adhere to an Operations and Maintenance Plan based on industry best practices.
A decommissioning and restoration plan will be put in place as part of the Municipal permitting process. This plan, at a minimum, will address the safety and removal of hazardous conditions, environmental impacts, aesthetics, recycling of materials, potential future uses for the site, funding and a decommissioning schedule. SWEB will allocate financial security to ensure the Municipality and landowners are not responsible for the decommissioning and removal of the project equipment.
SWEB is committed to working with the local communities to ensure that the Hillsvale Community Solar Project benefits its host communities. Feedback from the communities on the project is greatly encouraged. Please reach out to us in the following ways: Contact us directly at 902-830-1347 or attend our community engagement sessions. Details will be posted on the project website.
Do you own a local business? We would love to know more about your business. SWEB uses local labor, contractors, and service providers when possible. Please use the form provided in the CONTACT section of this website to provide information about your company.