Solar FAQ’s
Here are some of the most common questions we get from clients like you:
How and when will I receive updates on the status of my solar project?
From start to finish, our Client Care Team will be in touch with you to schedule on-site activities related to your solar project installation such as site evaluation and installation. If you have any questions regarding your solar project please contact us at (519) 804-9697 or toll-free at (888) 591-9010.
What is the Solar Net Metering incentive in Ontario?
Solar Net Metering incentive allows you to “store” energy in the electric grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than you need, that energy is sent to the grid in exchange for credits. Then, at night or other times when your solar panels are under producing, you pull energy from the grid and use these credits to offset the costs of that energy.
What size solar system do I need?
With the right size solar energy system, you can produce enough electricity to match your property’s electricity use for the entire year. However, the amount of electricity your solar panels produce will vary throughout the year. Net metering helps you account for these differences by crediting you for the excess electricity your panels produce so you can use it later. The credit can be carried forward for up to 12 months.
What will happen if I produce more electricity with Solar than I am using?
In general, you will produce excess electricity in the summer months and you will use more electricity from the grid in the winter. Because these variations in production are fairly predictable, your utility won’t send you a monthly cheque when you produce more than you need. Instead, you will build up extra credits during the summer months so that you can draw from them at night and during the winter months when you need them. With the right design, your system can generate enough power to match your total electricity use for a year.
What will my electricity bill look like after I go Solar?
Ideally, you’ll be able to eliminate most of your electricity bill charges after going solar. This will depend on a few factors such as your solar system’s size, your local electricity rate, and your household’s energy consumption. Even if you can’t eliminate your entire electricity bill with a solar panel system, you can still significantly reduce your electricity bill costs, which can add up to thousands of dollars in savings over the lifetime of your solar panel system and protect you against rising electricity rates in the future.
What happens if my solar system breaks?
They are built to stand up to tough outdoor conditions and generally do not require a lot of maintenance. Your solar system comes with a limited warranty, preventative maintenance and a production guarantee to be sure that the components function as intended over time. See your agreement for all options and details.
What about going off the grid?
In essence, net metering is like having your Utility grid serve as a giant solar battery. When you install solar panels on your property, you will still be connected to the grid. This allows you to draw from the grid when your system is not producing all of the power that you need, and send power back to the grid when you produce more than you use. It is possible to go off the grid with a solar energy system that includes battery storage, but it will cost significantly more. In most cases, staying connected to the electric grid is your best option.
What are the environmental benefits of solar energy?
Solar power, like other renewable energy resources, has many environmental and health benefits. Going solar reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change, and also results in fewer air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, which can cause health problems.