Wolfville, NS: Wolfville Farmers' Market unveiled a new solar installation September 26, the largest in the town, to power the Market year-round. The 20 kW installation is made possible thanks to support from Bullfrog Power and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), a government organization responsible for creating economic growth in the Atlantic Provinces.
The project was initiated by Wayne Groszko, Applied Energy Research Scientist at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), who thought it would make an ideal learning experience for students. After students completed a solar feasibility study as part of their term assignment, the Market stepped in with a desire to build the actual array. With funding from Bullfrog Power and ACOA, Wolfville Farmers' Market was able to complete the project.
Wolfville Farmers' Market started in 1992 with three vendors in a parking lot. The Market has grown and is now housed in a 9,000-square-foot facility that was once an apple warehouse. Operating year-round, the Market hosts a Saturday Market with 70 farmers, chefs and artisan vendors, and a Wednesday Market Supper.
As part of its work as a social enterprise, Bullfrog Power says it has supported more than 140 green energy projects nationwide through its Community Renewable Projects Program.