Overview
First Light I is a 9.1 MW solar PV facility in Ontario, Canada, owned by Sunedison / Skypower Ltd. It contributes to the province's renewable energy capacity under the Green Energy Act.
First Light I is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Ontario, Canada, with a capacity of 9.1 megawatts (MW). The facility is owned by Sunedison / Skypower Ltd and is currently operational, adding to Canada's growing renewable energy portfolio. Ontario has been a leader in renewable energy adoption in Canada, driven by the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009, which established feed-in tariffs and renewable energy standards. Solar PV plants like First Light I benefit from these policies, which support distributed generation and grid integration. The 9.1 MW scale places it in the small-to-medium range for utility-scale solar in the region. The facility contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity. Solar PV installations in Ontario typically have a capacity factor of around 15-20%, and their output helps meet peak summer demand. The plant's location in eastern Ontario supports local grid stability and provides clean energy to the surrounding community.
Environmental context
Solar PV plants like First Light I have minimal environmental impact during operation, with no emissions or water use. However, land use for solar arrays can affect local ecosystems and agricultural land. In Ontario, solar farms are often sited on marginal or previously disturbed land to minimize conflicts. The region's climate provides adequate solar insolation for efficient generation, though snow cover in winter can temporarily reduce output.
Frequently asked questions
First Light I is located in Ontario, Canada, near coordinates 44.2904° N, -76.9257° W.
First Light I has a capacity of 9.1 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale solar PV facility.
First Light I is owned by Sunedison / Skypower Ltd, a partnership between two renewable energy developers.
Ontario's Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009, established feed-in tariffs and renewable energy standards that support solar PV development.
First Light I generates clean electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping Canada meet its target of 90% non-emitting electricity by 2030.