Learning centre
Solar for Canadian homeowners, explained plainly
Independent answers to the questions people ask before going solar in British Columbia and Alberta. No sales pitch.
Is solar worth it? How to decide for your home
The five things that decide whether rooftop solar pays off in BC or Alberta, and how to check each one before you talk to an installer.
Solar rebates in BC (2026): what you can get and how to apply
BC Hydro’s solar rebate, the 2026 self-generation rate, FortisBC net metering, New Westminster’s rebate and BC’s PST exemption, explained.
Solar rebates in Alberta (2026): incentives, CEIP financing and micro-generation
There’s no provincial solar rebate in Alberta. Here’s what is available: micro-generation credits, CEIP property-tax financing and local incentives.
How much do solar panels cost in BC and Alberta?
Installed solar prices per watt in BC and Alberta, what’s included in a quote, and why small systems cost more per watt.
Solar payback period: how long until panels pay for themselves?
How solar payback is calculated, what makes it longer or shorter in BC and Alberta, and why payback alone can mislead.
Roof shading and solar panels: how much does shade matter?
How trees, chimneys and neighbouring buildings reduce solar output, and what you can do about it.
Which way should solar panels face? Orientation and tilt explained
South, east, west or north: how roof direction and pitch affect solar production in Canada.
Net metering and export credits in BC and Alberta
How BC Hydro, FortisBC and Alberta pay for solar electricity you send to the grid, including BC Hydro’s 2026 change.
How to evaluate a solar quote
A checklist for comparing solar installation quotes: price per watt, production estimates, savings claims, equipment and warranties.
Solar panel maintenance in Canada: what to expect
Cleaning, snow, monitoring, inverter replacement and what maintenance really costs for home solar in BC and Alberta.