Celebrating New Generation: OREC Repowers the Dunrobin Solar Array

FIG Solar begins to remove the legacy panels prior to the upgrade.

If there is one thing we know our members value above all else, it is tangible, new clean energy production on the grid. We are thrilled to announce a significant operational win for OREC in 2026: the official repowering and upgrade of our Dunrobin solar facility!   

Through a new repowering project undertaken by our joint venture with longtime partners Jeff and Colleen Westeinde (Clearly Solar Energy Inc.), construction is underway to replace aging solar equipment with state-of-the-art technology. This project significantly increases our generation capacity, optimizes our financial returns, and ensures this high-performing site will continue feeding clean power into the Ottawa grid for years to come.   

The Upgrade: Boosting Capacity from 300 kW DC to 402 kW DC

Located at 980 Vances Side Road, the Dunrobin facility has been a reliable producer in OREC’s portfolio. However, solar technology has advanced rapidly over the past decade. By modernizing the array, we are maximizing the energy output of the existing footprint without needing additional land.   

• Panel Modernization: We are removing ~1,197 older 250W modules and replacing them with 648 high-efficiency 620W Jinko solar panels.   

• Capacity Increase: The array's DC capacity is jumping from 300 kW DC to 402 kW DC (operating at a derated 250 kW AC output to align with grid connection limits).  That's total power generation equivalent to 40 typical residential homes.

• Inverter & Safety Tech: The project introduces 3 new 125 kW Solis inverters along with advanced rapid shutdown safety controls and upgraded DC cabling to align with current electrical codes.   

• Reusing Infrastructure: To keep costs low and environmental impact minimal, the existing structural sleepers and mounting rails are being realigned and reused.   

Unlocking High-Value FIT 1 Contracts & Strong Financials

What makes this repowering project particularly compelling for OREC and our members is the economic engine behind it.   

1. Lucrative FIT 1 Rate ($0.713 / kWh): The Dunrobin site operates under an early Ontario Feed-in Tariff (FIT 1.3) contract. Early FIT 1 contracts feature exceptionally favorable feed-in rates—paying 71.3¢ per kWh generated. Because FIT rules permit repowering existing assets, every extra kilowatt-hour produced by these upgraded panels generates premium revenue under our contract.   

2. Rapid Payback (< 4 Years): Thanks to the 71.3¢/kWh contract rate combined with the federal Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit (ITC), the project boasts an extraordinary financial payback period of under 4 years!   

3. Equal 50/50 Partnership: OREC and Clearly Solar Energy Inc. are sharing the repowering project budget on a 50/50 basis, preserving our equal ownership in the joint venture.   

Circular Economy in Action: Repurposing Old Solar Panels

In true co-op fashion, we are ensuring that the older 250W solar panels being removed do not end up in a landfill.   

While these panels have seen over a decade of service on the Dunrobin roof, many still retain significant generation capability for off-grid or residential uses. Working with local community members and neighbors, approximately half of the removed modules are being repurposed for local farm and property use, while remaining functional panels are being offered out to OREC members and local non-profit partners.   

Looking Ahead

Site preparation and AC electrical work began in late September 2026, with prime contractor FIG Solar and Sega Electric executing the DC and AC scope through October.

Expertly PM'ing the project from our side is OREC's Technical Director, Eric Gladu, of EnerGlad Renewables. Eric was also the PM for the Canada Science & Technology Museum solar rooftop extension.

This project proves that accelerating the clean energy transition isn't just about finding new sites—it's also about optimizing the clean energy assets we already have.   

Thank you to our members for your continued support, and to Jeff and Colleen Westeinde for their ongoing partnership in advancing community-owned renewable energy in Ottawa!