Find answers to your burning solar questions.

“Why go Solar?” Solar Alberta
“Solar 101” Solar Alberta
  • How do solar panels work?
    • Solar panels are devices that convert the energy from the sun into electrical energy. They work by harnessing the energy from the photons, or particles of light, that make up sunlight.
    • Solar panels are made up of several components, including photovoltaic cells, which are responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic cells are made from a semiconductor material, usually silicon, that has been treated to create a positively charged layer and a negatively charged layer. When sunlight hits the cell, the energy from the photons is absorbed by the semiconductor material, which knocks electrons loose from the atoms in the material.
    • The electrons that are knocked loose from the semiconductor material are then attracted to the negatively charged layer of the cell, while the positively charged layer attracts the free protons left behind. This creates a flow of electrons from the negative layer to the positive layer, generating an electrical current.
    • The electrical current generated by the photovoltaic cells is direct current (DC) electricity, which is not suitable for use in most homes and businesses. Therefore, an inverter is used to convert the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used by appliances, lights, and other electrical devices.
    • Solar panels work best when they are exposed to direct sunlight, but they can still generate electricity on cloudy days or in areas with less sunlight. In addition to photovoltaic cells, solar panels also include a frame to hold the cells, a protective layer to prevent damage to the cells, and electrical connectors to allow for the flow of electricity.
  • Where do I start?
    • If you’re interested in installing solar, there are a few steps you can take to get started:
    • 1. Assess your energy needs: Before you invest in a solar system, it’s essential to understand your energy usage and needs. Look at your past energy bills to determine how much energy you consume on average and consider any future changes you may make, such as purchasing an electric vehicle or adding new appliances.
    • 2. Determine if your location is suitable for solar: The amount of sunlight your location receives is critical for the efficiency of your solar panels. You’ll want to assess your roof or property’s orientation and shading to determine if it’s suitable for solar installation. South facing roofs are optimal for solar generation, East/West roof’s also work, however you may lose upto 30 percent efficiency.
    • 3. Research solar installers or DIY kits: Look for reputable solar installers in your area and check their credentials, reviews, and certifications. It’s essential to work with an experienced installer who can guide you through the process and ensure your solar system is installed correctly. If you have hands on experience and feel comfortable climbing on your roof you can look into DIY kits from our shop. With our DIY kits and Full Permit Design services, our customers have saved up to 50 percent of their installation costs by doing it themselves.
    • 4. Obtain quotes and compare options: Once you’ve found a few solar installers, obtain quotes and compare the options they offer. This will help you determine which system and installer will best meet your needs and budget.
    • 5. Consider financing options: There are several financing options available for solar installations, including Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) loans, leases, rebates, and power purchase agreements. Consider which option is best for you and your financial situation.
    • 6. Install your solar system: Once you’ve chosen a provider and financing option, it’s time to install your solar system. Your provider will guide you through the process and ensure everything is installed safely and correctly.
  • How much is it going to cost?
    • The cost of installing a solar system in Canada can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the system, the quality of the components used, and the installer you choose.
    • According to recent reports, the average cost of a residential solar system in Alberta is between $10,000 and $25,000 CAD. This price range includes the cost of equipment, installation, and permitting.
    • However, as with other regions, there are incentives available to reduce the overall cost of the system. For example, the federal government offers a Canada Greener Homes Grant which covers $1.00/W on the total system capacity and up to $5,000 off the total system cost. Additionally, some local municipalities may offer additional incentives or financing options to encourage the installation of solar systems.
    • It’s recommended to contact local solar installers in Alberta to obtain accurate pricing and to discuss available incentives and financing options to determine the overall cost of a solar system for your specific situation.
  • Can I do some of it on my own and avoid going through installation companies?
    • Yes it is possible to install your own solar panels even if you lack prior DIY experience, but it’s important to understand that the process can be challenging and time consuming. Most solar components are designed to be plug-and-play, with cables that snap into dedicated ports. If you can perform basic tasks like lifting heavy objects and tightening screws, you’ve got what it takes to install your own system. The most challenging aspect of installing a solar system on your own is typically the final electrical hookup to the service panel. It’s essential to ensure that this step is completed safely and correctly, so some DIYers choose to hire a licensed electrician to handle this part of the installation.
    • Installing your own solar system can help you save on costs compared to hiring a professional installer, but it’s important to weigh the risks and challenges against the cost savings. It’s recommended that you do thorough research and consider all factors before deciding whether to install a solar system on your own.