So, the Ontario Gov’t has a plan out that pays really good rates for solar created electricity. I learned all about it after my Father-in-law reconnected with one of his old class mates, who is working together with his son, who have a company together to install alternative energy. We are definitely thinking of installing some solar panels on the new pig barn’s roof. It is facing the right way (south) and has a fairly suitable slope to it. There certainly seems to be a lot of interest around the countryside, and for anyone with long term plans and a south facing slope, I think it is a good (and profitable) idea! (and if you want more info, I highly recommend these guys! www.RealEnergyAlternatives.ca )
It will be interesting to see how many solar panels show up over the next year or so.
Looking at the winter photo of your farm buildings it looks like you could put more solar panels on the roof of the old barn as well. In fact that roof appears to have ideal slope sections for both summer (upper) and winter (lower). And the roof also faces south! Maybe you could rent out that roof to someone else who wishes to participate and charge monthly rent for the use of your roof! Just an idea.