Northern Community Science Centre

In 2009 Matrix Energy was approached by Laval University's Centre for Northern Studies (Centre d'Études Nordiques - CEN) in requesting the design and specification of seven grid-tied and six off-grid Photovoltaic (PV) power systems totaling 37.8 kWp. The tenders for the PV systems were developed by engineering consultants CIB Groupe Conseil, and Matrix Energy received an order for equipment supply from Valko Electrique in early 2010. The installations were completed in the second half of 2010 and 2011.

The off-grid PV systems each comprised 1.4 kWp of SolarWorld monocrystaline solar modules, Xantrex XW MPPT 60A charge controller and 4kW / 24V inverter charger, 15 kWh GEL battery banks, mounting hardware and accessories. These autonomous systems serve to power equipment located at CEN installations in the Boniface and Lac à l'Eau Claire sectors. CEN recognized the advantage of low maintenance off-grid PV systems over diesel generators, which require costly maintenance, repair and operation. Transporting diesel fuel to remote areas, often by air during the wintertime, is particularly costly and increases project risk. Matrix Energy also supplied low voltage DC appliances, including heavy duty pressure pumps and top loading fridges and freezers.

The seven PV systems connected to Hydro-Quebec's utility grid each comprise 4.2 kWp of SolarWorld monocrystaline solar modules, Xantrex 5 kW grid-tie inverter and monitor, mounting hardware and accessories. These systems allow CEN to reduce their electric utility costs on a monthly basis, and were installed in the Kuujjuarapik, Umiujaq and Salluit sectors of the province.