We were proud to partner with Thompson Rivers University (TRU) on a significant step toward achieving their sustainability goals: installing solar energy systems across three key campus buildings. From planning to execution, TRU’s Facilities team brought a strong vision for a cleaner future and was an exceptional partner throughout the project.
Project Overview
This large-scale commercial solar initiative spanned three significant buildings on the TRU campus in Kamloops, BC: the Arts and Education (A&E) building, the Campus Activity Centre (CAC), and the Industrial Trades and Technology Centre (ITTC). In total, we installed over 600 high-efficiency solar panels, designed to deliver over 400,000 kWh of clean electricity per year, helping TRU reduce its carbon footprint and offset operational energy use.
System Specs:
• Total System Size: 396.28 kW DC
• Panels Used: 605W modules
• Estimated Annual Production: 414,000 kWh
Building Breakdown:
Arts & Education:
• 196 x 605W modules (118.58 kW DC)
• SolarEdge Inverters
• 125,000 kWh/year
Campus Activity Centre:
• 192 x 605W modules (116.16 kW DC)
• SolarEdge Inverters
• 121,000 kWh/year
Industrial Trades & Technology Centre:
• 267 x 605W modules (161.54 kW DC)
• Canadian Solar String Inverter
• 168,000 kWh/year
Design & Installation Considerations
Each rooftop presented unique challenges, from different structural loads to inverter placement and wire management. Our design team developed custom layouts to maximize solar exposure and minimize shading, while ensuring compliance with TRU’s strict safety and building standards.
Coordination was essential, especially on an active campus. We collaborated closely with TRU’s facilities team to plan equipment placement, reduce disruptions to student and staff activities, and ensure that system components fit smoothly with the existing electrical infrastructure.
Electrical Configuration
Two of the buildings (A&E and CAC) used SolarEdge inverter technology, enabling optimized energy harvesting and advanced monitoring features. The ITTC installation required a different approach, employing a Canadian Solar string inverter setup designed to support a higher-capacity array with robust performance.
All electrical work was completed following the code, prioritizing long-term reliability and ensuring easy access for future maintenance. Shutdowns were carefully scheduled to minimize disruptions to academic activities.
Outcome
The result is a seamless integration of renewable energy into TRU’s energy mix. The three rooftop solar systems now generate over 400,000 kWh annually, reducing both emissions and electricity costs while supporting TRU’s commitment to climate leadership and sustainable development.
We’re honoured to have contributed to such a forward-thinking initiative, and we look forward to supporting more institutions and commercial clients in their transition to clean energy.
