July 9, 2016 – Lambton Shield
Pilot project taking place to test battery life in partnership with Bluewater Power subsidiary and Sarnia Transit
Sarnia Transit and Unconquered Sun, which is owned by Bluewater Power, are testing the technology behind solar-powered transit shelters as part of a six-month project that includes two of the installations on Exmouth Street.
The shelters, which cost about $8,500 to install, include an array of photovoltaic cells, which store electricity in batteries located on the roof of the shelters.
There’s enough power stored to light the interior and an advertising sign located on a side of the shelter away from oncoming traffic, which gives those waiting for the next bus a clear view.
The installations are the latest but not the first to be tested. The others had not passed muster due to insufficient battery life and not enough light ge.
Jim Stevens, director of Sarnia Transit, which is operated by the City, has said he is pleased with the results so far.
Unconquered Sun, which is based in Tecumseh, builds the shelters. The company was purchased by Bluewater Power in 2015.
If this test is successful, Sarnia Transit is said to have plans to replace some 50 shelters in all, with most being at least 20 years old. The work is part of a 10-year accessibility improvement plan, Stevens has said, with work to include upgrading surrounding sidewalks and providing a solid landing surface for people who are entering or leaving a bus.
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