Solar-powered savings
Alberta is the sunniest spot in Canada, with more than 300 days of sunshine every year. That’s a whole lot of solar energy you could be putting to work in your home!
Have you thought about solar panel installation at your home or property? Let’s shed some light on how solar energy systems can brighten your day.
Where to install solar panels
Solar panels are (most often) installed on the roof of your home. An installer’s job is to get them up and running while protecting your roof. They’ll safely secure your solar panels, seal all points of entry and be careful to consider factors like weight, weather, etc. Talk to your installers about workmanship warranties to cover you in the unlikely event a leak does occur from the installation – a professional crew will keep you covered.
Costs of solar panels vs savings
The cost of installing solar panels in Alberta is impacted by the number of panels, location, the complexity of your roof, and if additional equipment is required to complete installation. While pricing varies, the cost is typically around $2.50 per Watt installed.
Everyone’s system and energy habits are unique and so are their solar energy savings, but the average home in Alberta uses about 7,200 Watts per year. With just about 18-24 solar modules, those homeowners are producing as much energy as they consume annually!
Watch the savings in real time
Depending on the size of your system and the fluctuating nature of energy prices, your energy savings with solar panels vary. Watching that happen can be fun and satisfying!
Most solar systems use equipment with free online monitoring software (like ours!), so you can view your solar energy production in real time on your computer, Smart TV or smartphone. Then, you just have to wait for your monthly electricity bill from your electricity retailer to see your energy credits roll in.
Staying ‘on the grid’
Many people choose solar to reduce their carbon footprint by lowering carbon dioxide emissions and become more self-sufficient. In Alberta, you can expect to generate more power than you’ll need in the summer and less in the winter.
Even if you produce enough electricity to be self-sufficient, you’ll still get an electricity bill that includes some transmission and distribution fees associated with being on the grid. This is good! Not only because it keeps you covered during bad weather or for when you need a little extra power, but also because you can sell back your unused energy. Your energy retailer will give you a credit on your energy bill for the power you feed back into the grid.
What about all that snow?
Solar panels and materials that fasten to your roof are built for all weather, even our Albertan winters! Ours, for example, outlasted tests with golf ball sized hail at 100kph!
Snow doesn’t stop the energy flow either. Light is diffused through snow cover to allow panels to produce power. Bonus: The heat generated from the panels will remove most snow naturally. So, put the ladder away! Your snow will clear off on its own. Stay in and get cozy while your panels work for you in more ways than one.
Are solar panels worth the investment?
The extra great news is that solar systems last for decades! With proper installation and care, your system should far outlast the warranty. And you’ll see a payoff even sooner than that! It’s hard to predict the future cost of energy but you can expect your system to pay for itself about halfway through its warranted lifetime (between 12 – 18 years).
Talk to your energy provider about a personalized payback assessment based on your actual utility bill consumption history.
Renewable energy on the go
You can stick with solar power even when you’re not at home by using a portable solar generator. They’re perfect to throw in the camper for outdoor excursions or to take with you to remote worksites. They’re especially popular on film sets that need to plug in lights at night!
On the move?
If you want to feel that personal payoff, investing in a solar system is especially wise when you’re planning on remaining in your home for a long time. If things change and you decide to move, you can most often (depending on how they were installed) take them with you. However, uninstalling and reinstalling them can be an expensive task. When you’re deciding, talk to your real estate agent about the value they add to your listing as well as your installation experts on the costs to move them.
Nothing like a little bit of energy savings to brighten your day. If you’re considering installing solar panels in Alberta, talk to a solar expert to determine the best system and the right number of panels for you. They’ll look at your home’s annual power usage and available space before selecting a module with a power rating that’s right for your application.
Embrace energy independence
As the conversation around sustainable living gains momentum, the role of solar power in Alberta becomes increasingly significant. By opting for solar installation at home, you're not just tapping into a renewable resource but also taking a step towards energy independence.
More options for renewable energy
As homeowners increasingly explore more sustainable energy options, many find themselves pondering whether solar energy is the right choice for their home. Our video provides insights to help you make an informed decision.
As you explore the benefits of solar energy for your home, consider pairing this renewable solution with a Home Energy Audit to maximize efficiency and savings. A professional audit can identify additional energy-saving opportunities that enhance the performance of your solar panels, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
Solar & renewable energy FAQs
How long do solar panels usually last?
You can expect your new solar power system to last for decades. With proper installation and care, the cost of installing solar panels in Alberta is offset by the longevity and durability of your system, as your panels will far outlive the warranty.
Can hail damage solar panels?
Most solar panels are built with high-quality materials to endure light to moderate hail. If you live in an area prone to heavy hail with stones larger than two inches, it may be wise to cover your solar panels proactively before a storm.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The number of panels needed depends on your energy consumption, the efficiency of the solar panels, and available roof space.
The average home in Alberta uses approximately 7,200 kWh of electricity per year. This means an average homeowner will need roughly 18 solar panels providing 400 W each (or more panels with less power) to cover their annual energy needs.
Are there solar financial incentives?
Absolutely! If you're exploring solar energy options, financial support is available to help lighten the load. The Canada Greener Homes Loan is a fantastic resource designed to make your transition to solar more affordable. This initiative provides interest-free financing to eligible homeowners.
For additional resources and financing options, Solar Alberta is your go-to guide. They offer a wealth of information on solar financing opportunities that can help you take the next step toward energy independence.
Can I choose renewable energy as a source with my ATCO Energy plan?
Yes, you can choose a more environmentally friendly option by selecting 25% or 100% source of your ATCO Energy electricity plan from renewable sources.
