Alberta isn’t just known for its stunning landscapes and unpredictable weather—it’s also Canada’s sunniest province, with over 300 days of sunshine each year. That’s a whole lot of free solar energy you could be putting to work in your home!
Switching to solar panels isn’t just about saving the planet. It’s also about using less energy, saving money, and earning bragging rights as a clean energy leader. Let’s break it down and see why solar panels are a smart investment for your home.
How solar panels work
Before we dive into costs and savings, let’s cover the basics. Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity for your home. This clean energy powers everything from your fridge to your lights, reducing your reliance on traditional energy sources.
In Alberta, solar panels are most commonly installed on rooftops where they can soak up the maximum amount of sunlight. A professional installer will ensure they’re securely fastened, weatherproofed, and positioned for optimal energy production.
The cost to install solar panels
Let’s talk dollars and cents. Solar panel installation cost in Alberta typically ranges around $2.50 per Watt. For the average home, which uses about 7,200 kWh of electricity annually, you’ll need roughly 18–24 panels to cover your energy usage.
That’s an upfront investment, but programs like the Canada Greener Homes Loan offer interest-free financing for up to $40,000 to make solar panels more affordable. Solar Alberta is another great resource for finding grants and rebates.
How solar panels save you money
Here’s where it gets exciting. Once your solar panels are up and running, you’ll start seeing savings on your electricity bill. In fact, many Alberta homeowners generate more electricity than they use during the sunny summer months. That extra energy gets sold back to the grid, earning you credits on your bill.
Most solar systems use equipment with free online monitoring software (like ours!), so you can track how much electricity your panels are generating 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.
What about Alberta’s winter?
Alberta’s winter is a mixed bag, but solar panels are up to the challenge. Here’s how they perform in different conditions:
- Cold weather: Believe it or not, solar panels are more efficient in colder temperatures. They produce electricity more effectively when it’s cool, making Alberta’s winters surprisingly solar-friendly.
- Hailstorms: Modern solar panels are tested to withstand hailstones up to 25 mm in diameter. Ours outlasted tests with golf ball sized hail at 100 kph! For extra peace of mind, you can opt for panels with enhanced durability ratings.
- Snowfall: While snow can temporarily reduce energy production, it often slides off panels quickly due to their smooth surface and the heat they generate. Plus, Alberta’s sunny winters mean panels can still produce energy even with some snow cover.
Are solar panels worth the investment?
The short answer: absolutely. Solar panels are a long-term investment that pays off in multiple ways:
- Financial savings: Lower electricity bills and potential income from selling surplus energy.
- Environmental impact: Reduced carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.
- Home value: Solar panels can increase your property’s resale value, making them a smart choice if you plan to stay in your home for the long haul.
The 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.
Talk to your energy provider about a personalized payback assessment based on your actual utility bill consumption history.
Getting started with solar panels
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.
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.
Solar & renewable energy FAQs
How long do solar panels usually last?
You can expect your new solar power system to last for 25-30 years. 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.
What if I need to move?
Investing in solar panels is especially wise when you’re planning on remaining in your home for a long time. But 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 expensive.
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.
