Balzer’s Canada Incorporated, a construction and industrial firm based in Saskatchewan, has kicked off a big solar project as it aims to run its facility with net-zero energy by the end of fall 2025.
Founded back in 1937, Balzer’s Canada has built a solid reputation doing large-scale contracting, fabrication, design-build, maintenance, and industrial construction. Their facility in Emerald Park includes fabrication shops, warehouses, and offices.
The company is installing solar arrays on site. They are using a dual-axis solar tracking system, developed in partnership with Mechatron Solar. This system can follow the sun across two axes (not just fixed tilt), which helps panels capture more sunlight and produce more energy. “Going net-zero in less than four months is no small feat,” said the president and CEO of Balzer’s Canada, Ron Balzer. “But with our long history of industrial excellence and Mechatron’s cutting-edge solar technology, we’re confident we’ll get there, while setting a new standard for sustainable contracting in Canada.”
The solar trackers they’re using are from Mechatron’s M18KD-20 Gearless Dual-Axis Tracker design. This design aims for better strength, rigidity, and efficiency, so the panels stay aligned well and last longer. “As soon as we learned about Mechatron’s M18KD, with its unmatched accuracy, durability, and yield, we knew it was the right choice,” Balzer said. “This system isn’t just about meeting net-zero goals; it’s about leading the way for greener industrial construction across the Prairies.”
What is “net-zero energy” here?
Net-zero energy operation means the facility produces as much energy as it uses over the course of a year. By installing its own solar power system, Balzer’s Canada expects to reduce reliance on external energy sources. Their goal is to reach that balance by the end of fall 2025.
This solar project is important for a few reasons. First, it helps the environment by reducing fossil fuel consumption and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Second, the dual-axis solar trackers make the panels much more efficient because they follow the sun and capture more light than regular fixed panels. This project will enable the creation of more clean energy every day, as the panels can track the sun as it moves. It also shows leadership in the province. By choosing to invest in this new solar technology, Balzer’s Canada is showing other companies and communities in Saskatchewan what’s possible. Their example could spark more clean energy projects across the region.
Balzer’s Canada has been part of Saskatchewan’s industrial sector for decades, and now it’s adding clean energy to its operations. The company set a goal to reach net-zero energy by fall 2025 and is using dual-axis solar trackers to get there. If successful, the project could demonstrate to other Prairie businesses that solar power is a viable option. If all goes as planned, their facility will be running on clean energy as much as possible, matching what they use, all thanks to this solar rollout.
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