Steve Dyck started Guelph Solar right at the end of the 2008 financial crisis, a time where many would steer clear of launching a new business venture. But Steve had been feeling really disconnected from his work as a subcontractor for General Motors doing engine development, and wanted to invest his time and effort into something that could make a positive impact on the world.
“I was building these fabulous engines, but I was concerned that I was part of the climate problem,” he says remembering his time at the company. Feeling pulled toward his community and wanting to continue building something, he felt confident that he could come up with a solar solution to the environmental problem he felt complicit in.
“My wife was incredibly supportive,” he says proudly. “She wanted us to be doing something we really believed in, something that our community, our country, our world really needed.”
And so, one year later, Guelph Solar was born.
For the last 15 years, Guelph Solar has been committed to the Southwestern Ontario community, designing and installing solar energy systems purpose-built to last and provide long-term financial and environment benefits for residential and commercial properties, managing the process from initial application to long-term maintenance. Their comprehensive approach begins with the Offer to Connect (OTC), where it handles all necessary applications with hydro companies to secure approval for connecting the system to the grid. Following this, it obtains the required building permits, ensuring the utility company allows the connection.
The design and engineering phase involves close collaboration between its electrical engineering team and OTC admin staff to create precise designs and obtain necessary approvals. Guelph Solar conducts thorough structural inspections and makes any necessary reinforcements to ensure roofs can support the solar equipment. By purchasing solar equipment in large quantities, it reduces costs and guarantees availability when installation time arrives.
Installation is a meticulous process that can take several months, involving over 25 skilled solar installers. The company handles the direct current (DC) side of the installation, converting the DC power generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) power for grid connection. This phase requires careful coordination between the hydro company, safety inspectors, Guelph Solar’s team, and favorable weather conditions.
Post-installation, Guelph Solar provides ongoing monitoring and maintenance, managing warranty issues and servicing installations from other solar companies. Its commitment to quality and comprehensive service ensures that every project runs smoothly from start to finish, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and experienced player in the solar industry.
From simple residential applications to large commercial projects, each system is designed to ensure long term durability and efficiency, enabling customers to generate clean with solar net metering, off-grid, and battery storage solutions.
Projects include solar panels and Tesla Powerwall that will deliver local energy well into the future for its residential and commercial clients. All Guelph Solar installations meet rigorous standards and are installed by fully trained technicians and electricians, many of whom have been with the company since the near beginning.
“Our team is incredible,” gushes Michelle, a veteran of the solar industry herself, taking her first role in 2014 before joining the Guelph Solar team as the General Manager. “We are so fortunate to attract so many people with great hearts and a real passion for making the world a better place,” she adds.
Of course, Guelph Solar’s company culture is a big part of that, boasting two Guelph Chamber of Commerce Awards – one for Excellence in a Small Business and another for the company’s sustainability efforts. While many competitors have come and gone, Guelph Solar’s staying power can be chalked up to its people, and the company’s commitment to the team.
For starters, Guelph Solar is a living wage employer, meaning it pays all direct and contract staff the living wage rate for their region of Dufferin Waterloo Guelph-Wellington. This means that the company doesn’t take on any job unless it can ensure the budget allows for this minimum.
“We see it as an ethical issue,” Michelle and Steve agree.
Guelph Solar is also employee-owned, with 20% of the employees serving as owners, meaning they benefit from the company’s ongoing growth and success.
Overarching this is the in-house electrical team that allows for greater control over the quality and installation process, unique in an industry that often outsources electrical and installation work.
According to Steve and Michelle, these features of the company sets it apart, making it not only an attractive place for people to work but also a company that truly lives out its values. These values help fuel the company’s consistent growth and business success, which Steve and the team aim to continue working tirelessly to continue into the future.
Guelph Solar is charting an ambitious path for the next 15 years, focusing on net-zero projects across various sectors. Steve envisions expanding its impact in agriculture and commercial industries, targeting businesses like dental and optometry offices that own their buildings and have significant electric bills. “These are often the kinds of businesses we’ll be engaging with, alongside architects involved in new builds, to develop local clean energy and create compelling business cases for controlling energy costs,” he says.
The agricultural sector is a particular focus, driven by the success of the input tax credit model in the United States, which offers a 30 percent tax incentive for solar programs. “This model has been very successful in the U.S., and I believe it will be equally effective in Canada moving forward.” Guelph Solar has already seen significant growth in demand for municipal projects, such as the Mississauga Fire Station and the upcoming Kitchener Public Library, indicating a promising trend in public sector projects.
Geographic expansion is also on the horizon for Guelph Solar. “We’ve talked extensively about exploring new markets. While we currently service the area around Guelph, we recognize the immense opportunity to replicate our quality and excellence in other regions,” Dyck explains. The company aims to help more homeowners and businesses harness solar power, contributing to a sustainable future.
“We’ve talked extensively about exploring new markets. While we currently service the area around Guelph, we recognize the immense opportunity to replicate our quality and excellence in other regions.”
Guelph Solar’s future goals reflect a commitment to expanding its reach and impact, driven by a dedication to quality and innovation in the solar industry.
“There’s a lot of opportunity out there, and we’re excited to lead the charge in helping more people and businesses go solar.”
Interested in making the switch to solar energy? Get a free quote by visiting their website.
