Oceanvolt Solar & EV’s Award-Winning Community Solar Project Advances Energy Independence on Thetis Island

On Thetis Island, a small Gulf Island community known for its commitment to sustainability and self-reliance, Oceanvolt Solar & EV has delivered an award-winning solar project with lasting impact.

Their 40 kW installation at the Thetis Island Community Center is designed to offset an estimated 95–100% of the site’s annual energy use—supporting both energy independence and long-term resilience for the community.

The Thetis Island Community Center serves as a central hub for events, meetings, and essential services, supporting local coordination and acting as a key resource during community initiatives and emergencies. With the addition of solar, it now benefits from lower operating costs and greater energy independence, helping ensure reliable, long-term service in the community.

Recognized as the APsystems Canada Non-Profit Project of the Year, the installation highlights how distributed solar can strengthen critical infrastructure while reducing reliance on mainland power.

Built for coastal conditions, the system needed to perform through variable light, shading, and a unique site layout. Oceanvolt selected APsystems DS3-L microinverters to give each module independent optimization, helping maximize production and maintain strong performance across the array.

“The use of APsystems DS3-L microinverters was a key factor in the success of the Thetis Island 40 kW solar project,” said Marcus Downer of Oceanvolt Solar & EV. “Their high efficiency and dual-module design allowed us to maximize production while adapting to the site’s unique conditions.”

With module-level monitoring, both the installer and the community can track performance in real time—adding visibility, simplifying maintenance, and building long-term confidence in the system.

For Oceanvolt Solar & EV, the project is a reflection of thoughtful design, quality installation, and a shared vision for sustainability. For the broader industry, it is a compelling example of how microinverter-based solar can help nonprofits and community organizations achieve meaningful, lasting impact.

SEE OTHER WINNERS HERE