Penn Energy - Hamilton Port Hope-4 Solar PV Facility, Ontario, Canada

Penn Energy - Hamilton Port Hope-4 is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Ontario, Canada, with an operational capacity of 10 megawatts (MW). Owned by Hamilton Solar Farm Partnership, the facility is part of the broader Penn Energy portfolio and contributes to the province's renewable energy generation. As a medium-scale solar installation, it supports Ontario's transition to cleaner energy sources. The facility operates under Ontario's regulatory framework, which includes the Green Energy Act and the province's Long-Term Energy Plan. Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor panels, with no emissions during operation. The 10 MW capacity places it in the medium-scale category for solar farms in Canada, typical for community or commercial projects. Environmentally, the plant generates electricity without greenhouse gas emissions, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Solar farms require land use but can be sited on marginal or agricultural land. The facility's output feeds into the local grid, supporting Ontario's goal to phase out coal-fired power and increase renewable energy penetration.

The facility is located in a region with moderate solar irradiance, typical for southern Ontario. Solar PV installations have a low visual impact compared to other energy infrastructure, though land use is a consideration. The plant avoids emissions associated with fossil fuel generation and contributes to Ontario's renewable energy targets. Local wildlife impacts are minimal, as solar farms can coexist with agricultural activities or grassland habitats.