Case Study: Bright Smiles, Clean Energy at McDonough Dental
Project Background
McDonough Dental in Hamilton is a busy, modern dental practice, serving a growing patient base with a strong commitment to health - both personal and environmental. Seeking to reduce operational costs and environmental impact, the clinic partnered with Guelph Solar to install a rooftop solar energy system that reflects its values of long-term care and sustainability.
The investment not only reduces the clinic’s carbon footprint but also positions McDonough Dental as a forward-thinking business in the healthcare space, demonstration that clean energy and professional care go hand-in-hand.
System & Technology
The 30.8 kW solar photovoltaic system was tailored to maximize available roof space and support the clinic's energy needs, especially critical for high-consumption equipment such as sterilizers, digital imaging machines, and the HVAC system.
Solar Panels
68 - 455W Longi solar panels
Optimizers
68 SolarEdge power optimizers
Grid-Tied Inverters
2-11.4kW SolarEdge inverter
System Monitoring
SolarEdge real-time performance monitoring
Setup Transformer
N/A
Expected Annual Generation (KWh)
28,394
System Operation
This net-metered solar system powers the clinic during daylight hours, significantly reducing costs and grid dependence. Excess energy is exported to the grid, earning credits that offset electricity use during months with a lot of overcast and snow.
Real-time monitoring allows the clinic to track energy generation, system health, and financial and environmental performance with ease, ensuring both dental and solar operations stay smooth.
Financial Overview
Assumptions used for estimating system value:
• Utility Rate: $0.14/kWh
• Utility Rate Inflation: 5% per year over 25 years
• Annual Solar Output Degradation: 0.3%
• Year 1 Energy Generation: 28,394kWh
• Inverter Replacement: One-time over system life
Based on these factors, payback is projected in year 12.4, with total lifetime savings estimated at $224,075.
Project Impact
The installation is expected to:
• Produce 27,395 kWh of clean electricity annually
• Offset approximately 20.5 metric tons of CO₂ during the project lifetime
• Deliver the same environmental benefit as preserving 0.82 acres of forest
By going solar, McDonough Dental is not only reducing costs but also building patient trust and community goodwill. The project serves as a strong example of how healthcare providers can lead by example in adopting sustainable practices.