Analysis of the potential of using photovoltaic and windturbine energy systems in the Canadian residential sector

The Canadian residential sector contributes approximately 80 megatonnes (Mt) of greenhouse gases (GHG) to the environment each year. With the ratification of Kyoto protocol, Canada has committed to reduce its GHG emissions by at least five percent between 2008 and 2012 on the basis of its 1990 emission levels. To meet this target Canada has to evaluate and exploit every feasible meaning to reduce the fossil fuel energy consumption and the consequent GHG emissions. In this work, test-case Canadian houses were modeled in the building energy simulation software ESP-r. Requisite housing stock data was extracted from Canada’s most comprehensive residential end-use energy surveys. As a source of alternate  energy, photovoltaic (PV) and wind-turbine energy systems were assessed for their potential contribution to the energy and GHG savings. The results show that in two out of the four test-case houses 100 percent electricity requirements could be met by using technologies.