To most homeowners, the initial cost of setting up photovoltaic cells poses a significant barrier to widespread adoption in the solar power industry. In addition, the perceived complexity of installing photovoltaic systems discourages many would-be converts concerned about limited roof space, varying sunlight, and seasonal changes.

Real or imagined, such concerns erect substantial stumbling blocks, limiting the successful implementation of renewable energy initiatives across the province. Even Ontario’s microFIT program, which enables homeowners to sell solar-generated energy back into the electricity grid at assured prices, has yet to go mainstream.

Recognizing the need for inexpensive and efficient means of generating renewable energy, Home Energy Solutions has recently announced the development of an innovative technology that will enable Toronto users to harvest 25% more electricity than comparable technologies.

Dubbed the MicroBlox, the system uses a radically different interface compared to other technologies. The MicroBlox uses the Enphase DC to AC Microconverter System, in which power is harvested by inverters from individual solar panels rather than from an entire array of photovoltaic cells. The output is said to be more efficient and will help mitigate some of the concerns associated with installing traditional photovoltaic systems. To make it easier to monitor solar power output, the MicroBlox system uses a Web-based application called Enlighten, which lets users measure and manage electricity production through an online control panel.

One of the leading providers of solar power systems in Toronto, Home Energy Solutions believes that their innovation can help improve homeowner buy-in with regards to Ontario’s microFIT program. Home Energy Solutions President, Dave Egles, notes that homes in Ontario have roofs with varying structures like vents, skylights, valleys, and domes, which often prove problematic when setting up larger, traditional photovoltaic arrays.

With MicroBlox’s smaller assembly, installing photovoltaic cells on homes is much easier. This innovation also proves to be beneficial to certified installers of photovoltaic systems and the schools that train them. Jacob Travis, Director of the Ontario Solar Academy, welcomes “any technology that makes our job easier and produces opportunities for more homes and small businesses to participate in Ontario’s microFIT program.”