The Qualicum Beach Elementary School made a long-term investment in reducing carbon emissions by installing a solar energy system.

Qualicum Beach Elementary School is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island and serves as one of the K-7 primary schools in the town of Qualicum Beach. School District 69’s long-range plans include incorporating solar energy systems on multiple school properties.

Hakai Energy Solutions was contracted to design, construct and commission a rooftop mounted solar PV system, incorporating a battery backup system for the school. With the ability to generate electricity, the school will protect itself from escalating utility prices. The system consists of (150) 405W solar panels, generating a system capacity of 60.75kW, with an estimated annual energy production of 66,970kWh. Qualicum Beach Elementary School was one of the first commercial sites in Canada to be equipped with high-output solar PV panels, meaning more electricity could be harnessed within a single solar panel.

Along with the solar array, Hakai installed 3 Tesla Powerwalls, which provide seamless backup power for critical loads during outages. The system will significantly reduce the school’s environmental impact, producing carbon-free energy every day for the next 35-40 years. In addition to the solar projects, the school district continues to look long-term at carbon emission reduction strategies.