Saint-Laurent Making it Easier to Produce Solar Energy on its Sloped Roofs

SAINT-LAURENT, QC, April 6, 2022 /CNW Telbec/ ? At its meeting on April 5, 2022, Saint-Laurent's Council amended its zoning bylaw to allow and regulate the installation of solar shingles or solar thermal and photovoltaic panels on sloped roofs on the borough's territory.

This initiative is intended to respond to the challenges of the green transition by promoting alternative energies within the framework of Saint-Laurent's 2021-2030 Climate Emergency Plan adopted last fall. As a reminder, this plan is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced on Saint-Laurent territory and increase the community's resilience to climate change.

In addition, this new bylaw aims to harmoniously integrate these devices into the urban environment, i.e. while protecting the built environment.

"After setting an example with our green buildings and our borough hall featuring 45 solar panels, we are proud to make available to our residents the same opportunity for innovative, concrete solutions to combat the climate emergency. Alternative energy production devices, such as solar panels on sloping roofs, are undoubtedly all part of this. But with this new bylaw, we are also concerned about preserving the architectural harmony of our territory, renowned for its rich history."    

Alan DeSousa, Mayor of Saint-Laurent

The installation of solar panels on flat roofs has already been authorized in Saint-Laurent since 2015. From now on, solar thermal and photovoltaic panels may be installed on sloping roofs in general. The only exceptions are roofs on buildings of heritage and architectural interest.

It should be noted that this solar equipment may not be erected on a structure that is independent or detached from the building, nor require cutting down one or more trees.

In all cases, the installations must meet certain objectives and criteria, such as the following, in order for applications in this regard to be accepted:

• reducing the visual impact from the street, while helping to protect the architectural integrity of the building and its installations
• maintaining the harmony of the built environment between each dwelling unit so as to ensure continuity of the overall character
• using sustainable, quality materials

Some applications may also be subject to a sunlight study, such as those with multi-sided buildings visible from the public road.

Saint-Laurent 2021-2030 Climate Emergency Plan

The energy efficiency of its municipal facilities: Saint-Laurent shifts into high gear (French press release of May 6, 2021)

A city established in 1893, Saint-Laurent became one of Montréal's 19 boroughs in 2002. Located north of the island of Montréal, Saint-Laurent is the largest borough of all, with its 42.8 square kilometres. Its population of over 100,000 is one of the most multicultural. With the borough having become a "sustainable municipal territory" in 2019, its Administration places sustainable development?and environment protection, in particular?at the heart of all its decisions: a challenge that is all the greater since more than 70% of its territory is devoted to industrial and commercial activities, with over 4500 companies and 110,000 jobs. In fact, it is home to one of Québec's main industrial and technological hubs. Already boasting great accessibility to the main highways and public transit, Saint-Laurent is getting ready to welcome 5 train stations within the new Réseau express métropolitain (REM) light rail network. And last but not least, with Saint-Laurent's two libraries, its Centre des loisirs (recreation centre), its modern Complexe sportif, its arena and some 50 parks, a wide range of services are offered in many areas of activity, such as culture, sports and recreation. In this way, Saint-Laurent's Administration ensures a high quality of life for families living in the borough as well as a stimulating environment for businesses.

SOURCE Ville de Montréal - Arrondissement de Saint-Laurent