FAQs
Will the solar farms be noisy?
No. Solar panels do not produce noise during operation. The only sound-generating equipment, such as inverters and transformers, produces a low hum, typically quieter than household appliances and located away from property lines.
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Will the solar farm be visible from nearby homes or roads?
Possibly, but with minimal impact. The design will consider natural buffers, existing vegetation, and may include additional screening like fencing or shrub planting to reduce visual impact. Panels are low-profile, typically 2–3 metres high at the tallest point. The projects will maintain a 5-metre setback from the road and adjacent properties in accordance with City bylaws.
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Is there any danger from electromagnetic fields (EMFs)?
EMFs from solar equipment are well below international safety limits, comparable to household appliances like toaster ovens or microwaves, and are recognized by multiple health authorities—including World Health Organization (WHO)—as posing no known health risk. Detailed measurements show levels such as 0.07–1.33 V/m near panels and 0.70 V/m near inverters—vastly below IEEE safety thresholds. Numerous studies, including those by North Carolina State, confirm that at these levels there are no consistent or conclusive health impacts.
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What happens at the end of the project’s life?
A full decommissioning plan will be in place. The system is expected to last 25–35 years. At the end of its useful life, the facility will be dismantled and the land restored or repurposed, if required, in accordance with Ontario regulations.
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Will the solar panels affect flights or operations near the airport?
A full solar glare assessment will be conducted to assess any potential impact on airport operations, including visibility for pilots and air traffic control. Solar panels are designed to absorb light, not reflect it, and modern designs significantly reduce the risk of glare. Findings from the study will be shared with the appropriate authorities to ensure aviation safety is fully maintained. PUC and its partners are actively coordinating with NavCanada and the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Authority to address any potential issues.
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Will there be any environmental damage to wildlife or wetlands?
Environmental protections are a priority. The project must undergo environmental studies and receive regulatory approvals. If there are sensitive features nearby, mitigation measures will be implemented to protect wildlife, habitat, and water quality.
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Will local residents have a say in the project?
Yes. Community engagement is a key part of the planning process. Open houses, public meetings, and environmental consultations will offer multiple opportunities for residents to ask questions, share input, and shape project outcomes.
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When will construction start, and how long will it take?
If approved, construction could begin as early as 2027 with final timelines depending on environmental approvals and procurement decisions. Construction is expected to take ~18 months.
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Will snow covering the solar panels affect their performance?
Yes, snow can temporarily reduce the amount of electricity generated by solar panels if it fully covers them. However, panels are installed at an angle, which helps snow slide off naturally, especially with wind and sunlight. Dark panel surfaces also absorb heat, which speeds up melting. In Ontario, solar projects are designed to account for snow conditions, including the ones being proposed.
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Will there be opportunities for rooftop solar?
Yes. PUC is developing a rooftop solar program that will provide incentives and support for residents and businesses interested in participating. The program will include turnkey installation services to make the process simple and accessible. For more information, you can contact conservation@ssmpuc.com
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Will trees be cut down for the solar project, and doesn't that increase CO2?
The clean energy generated from this project will displace thousands of tonnes of CO2 every year. Over the project's lifetime, the emissions avoided from replacing fossil fuels outweigh the carbon storage lost from the tree cutting. At the end of the project's lifespan, the site can be restored, including opportunities for reforestation or enhanced natural habitat. While we always look to minimize the need for tree clearing, solar projects provide a net climate benefit by reducing greenhouse gas emissions for decades to come.