Solar Balcony Railing in Residential Retrofit | Mitrex

Mitrex is a specialist in high-performance building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems that combine solar generation and façade aesthetics.

At 1154 Wilson Avenue in Toronto, the company’s SolaRail™ system was used to replace traditional balcony railings, transforming them into energy-generating features. This innovative retrofit demonstrates how renewable technology can be incorporated seamlessly into multi-family residential buildings without altering their function or appearance.

Led by DIS Wilson, Ten Block, and KingsGate Restoration Inc., the retrofit of the 1154 Wilson Avenue residential tower aligned with the developer’s commitment to sustainable innovation. The project replaced conventional balcony railings with more than 4,000 linear feet of Mitrex SolaRail™, resulting in a total installed capacity of 162 kW. Generating approximately 89,300 kWh of clean electricity annually—enough to power 16 residential units—the system enhances both the building’s energy performance and aesthetic quality. Installation was completed entirely from the building’s exterior, minimizing disruption for residents, while custom-coloured railings maintained consistency with the existing façade.

SolaRail™ combines architectural functionality with renewable energy generation, offering a durable, maintenance-free solution for residential retrofits. Beyond its visual integration, the system provides immediate operational savings through on-site electricity production and reduced long-term maintenance costs. For Ten Block, the retrofit reinforces a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and cost efficiency, proving that even overlooked building components—like balcony railings—can become active contributors to a property’s energy strategy. Backed by a lifetime warranty guaranteeing at least 80% power output after 25 years, SolaRail™ ensures long-lasting value and environmental impact.