Anita Wood retired in Lumby where she built her dream home, a sustainable, energy efficient house with a nice, south facing roof for solar. She implemented a 10.4 kilowatt solar power system that is producing a surplus of energy.
Why solar?
I am interested in alternative energy, I felt why not harness the sun, it’s here and it’s free.
How much of your energy mix is coming from solar annually?
I am producing a surplus of energy, more than double of what I use, which includes an electric car.
My first cheque from BC Hydro was for the power I produced during the first 13 months, it was $900, before I purchased the electric car.
(Note: Anita currently uses an efficient wood burning furnace to heat her home. However, if needed in the future, her solar system was designed to power her electric heating needs).
![AnitaWood Woman standing on top of mountain with rainbow in background](https://terratek.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/AnitaWood.jpg)
What are the main benefits of your system?
I’ve always been very independent, for example, I grow my own food. This is just another step in the direction of a modern homestead.
Interest rates being so minimal, it made more sense to invest in solar panels then leaving it in a savings account. The present return of $700 to $800 annually is great and the only BC Hydro bills I pay are a monthly fee of $6!
Investment wise, it definitely makes sense, in my eyes anyways.
Why did you choose Terratek?
Initially, I looked online to find someone locally, but I didn’t hear from that person for three weeks! I knew Terratek from Vancouver Island where they had installed solar on my community’s fire station.
Terratek is/was professional and friendly. I had no problems and am very happy with the results.
[ Terratek Energy now has an office in Kelowna]
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