About this Service
Permits are required to install systems such as Solar Photovoltaic (PV), Solar Thermal or a GeoExchange system. Application review and approval by the City is required.
This is a system that converts sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic solar panels are mounted on a framing system or flush with the surface of the building, either the roof or an exterior wall surface as allowed under the Zoning Bylaw, to capture sunlight.
The panels are wired to the home's electrical panel and may supply all or a portion of the total electricity consumption. The surplus electricity may be stored in a battery array for future use, or be fed back into the grid.
These systems are also called micro-generation systems and are governed under the micro-generation regulations by the Government of Alberta, which allow Albertans to generate their own environmentally-friendly electricity and receive credit for any power they send into the electricity grid. In Edmonton, compliance with this regulation requires an application with EPCOR.
Review and approval from the City’s Development, Electrical, and Building Safety sections is required.
Solar Thermal systems capture solar energy through collectors on the exterior of the building to heat air or water for use in the mechanical equipment of a building. An example would be using solar energy to heat domestic hot water for use in plumbing fixtures instead of using natural gas or electricity. Solar energy may be transmitted directly to the heat transfer medium (direct system) or through a heat exchanger (indirect system).
Review and approval from the City’s Development, Mechanical, Electrical, and Building Safety sections is required.
A GeoExchange System, or geothermal system, is a closed loop network of piping in the ground which circulates fluid allowing for heat transfer between a building HVAC system and the earth. A GeoExchange system can improve the energy efficiency of building heating and cooling systems through the use of a heat pump which can be more efficient than heating and cooling equipment in traditional HVAC systems.
A GeoExchange system itself does not require a development permit if it meets the exemptions of Section 7.120 of the Zoning Bylaw. An applicant is, however, obligated to conform with all other legislation, for example, the Municipal Government Act, bylaws, such as Safety Codes Permit Bylaw, land title instruments, such as caveats, covenants, or easements attached to the site, and any requirements for projects within the River Valley and Ravine System Section 2.260 for the River Valley Overlay as well as Section 7.140 for Special Information Requirements.
Identify all ground characteristics, features, or structures that may impact or be impacted by your work. Review the Project Implementation Plan Guide to help plan your safe construction site.
Review and approval from the Mechanical, Electrical, and Building Safety sections is required.