JULY 2008 - MSR Innovations’ Solar Project Chosen by BC ICE Fund
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BURNABY – MSR Innovations, a pioneer in bringing residential solar power into the mainstream, has been awarded $520,000 in funding from the BC government’s Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) Fund. This grant will contribute to the commercial development of the company’s flagship SolTrak™ product, and its first demonstration installation as part of the Sunridge Place development. The MSR Innovations project was one of 15 chosen from amongst 60 applications from all across the province. Projects included bioenergy, geothermal, solar and other alternative energy sources. |
SolTrak™ is a Modular Solar Roofing system that provides seamless integration of solar electric power with residential roofing. The unique, patent-pending Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) system is simpler, safer, more attractive, and considerably less expensive than traditional solar designs. “The technology provides homeowners with an aesthetically pleasing solar option that actually reduces the total systems costs. This will enable solar power to enter the mainstream residential marketplace”, explains Tim Roddick, CEO of MSR Innovations.
Sunridge Place is a new seniors’ residence, combining assisted and independent living units, being built in Langley, BC. The project is being developed by Century Group of Delta, BC, and incorporates a number of features to offset energy use. As a contributor to these energy-saving initiatives, MSR Innovations will install a 20 kilowatt solar electric system as a SolTrak™ demonstration site.
Century Group is committed to creating sustainable developments and communities, actively constructing LEED accredited buildings using solar thermal and other technologies. The Sunridge Place project represents the first photovoltaic installation for Century Group, supplementing the firm’s current sustainable capabilities. The project will bolster Century Group’s green branding strategies, fortifying the firm’s reputation for sustainable development solutions. Sean Hodgins, President of Century Group, emphasizes that this “gives Century the opportunity to enhance our brand by creating sustainable communities with practical energy saving products.” The SolTrak™ installation at Sunridge Place exemplifies this commitment by providing a showcase, while providing significant renewable energy generation to the complex.
In addition to the provincial ICE grant, the Sunridge Place project is also supported by a grant from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC). SDTC is a not-for-profit foundation, founded by the Government of Canada, that finances and supports the development and demonstration of clean technologies.