FACING THE SUN: Array of panels gather solar heat on Leslieville housing project.

A subsidized housing complex in Leslieville is now home to Ontario’s largest rooftop solar heating system.

The 179-unit residence, located on Queen St. East near Winnifred Ave. and operated by WoodGreen Community Services, is sporting more than 100 rooftop plate solar collectors that will help heat the building’s water to reduce the use of gas and electricity.

“It’s great for the organization because it controls our costs and it’s great for the environment and the city,” WoodGreen president Brian Smith said in a recent interview.

Designed and built by Vancouver-based Taylor Munro Energy Systems, the custom-built solar array is owned and operated by Mondial Energy Inc., a local company that finances alternative re-newable energy sources.

“We’re producing roughly 34 percent of the heat for hot water every year for that building so the boilers are only firing two-thirds as much as they used to,” said Alex Winch, president of Mondial.

The system, now operating, cost Mondial more than $200,000.

WoodGreen will pay only for the solar thermal energy delivered to the company at a fixed 10-year rate.

“We assume gas prices will continue to increase, so it’s a longterm savings for the organization,” Smith said.

The five-storey building already features low-flush toilet systems and energy-saving lights.

“This is just a natural extension of wanting to be more environmentally friendly,” Smith added.

Mondial has financed several solar heating systems for buildings in the east end, as well as commercial and office buildings, said Winch.

“We’re becoming aware that there’s a climate change issue going on and whatever you can do to help is a benefit,” he said, adding solar water heating helps reduce the power burden on the environment.

The collectors will also reduce an estimated 61 tons of annual carbon dioxide emissions.

Next on Mondial’s agenda is the recently purchased solar water heating panels for Sick Children’s Hospital, in the downtown core.