Plug-In Solar Power dot CA
About this episode
The episode discusses plug-in solar systems in Canada, focusing on safety, legality, and accessibility for renters and condo owners.
This conversation centers on plug-in or “balcony” solar systems and how to make them safe, legal, and accessible in Canada, particularly Alberta. Chris Cashen, CEO and co‑founder of Volta Home , explains that his Vancouver-based startup is building what they describe as the first compliant plug‑in solar solution for North America, having spent about a year on the project and recently completing lab validation with a utility partner and Powertech Labs in BC. A simple connection is meant to make rooftop or patio solar accessible to many types of occupants, including renters. Dr. Joe Vipond from the Calgary Climate Hub describes their charity’s role in empowering Calgarians to participate in climate solutions, including through an electricity working group that became interested in European “balcony solar” as a way for renters, condo owners, and people without suitable roofs to join the energy transition. He notes that plug‑in solar can offset about a third of a household’s electricity use, which is significant in the current context of energy costs. I mention that jurisdictions like England are pushing such legislation in response to energy shortages linked to the war in Iran…
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