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Frequently Asked Questions - Solar energy in Calgary and other areas
Do I need to have sun 100% of the day to be worth it?
Exposure means a lot. You can still generate power without 100% exposure. We can give you a very accurate production estimate based on local latitude and shading on your site.
Let you make an informed decision.
Please call us or email 250-342-5516 dean@solarcountry.ca
Do I need to have batteries to store the Electricity?
No you don't need batteries, your system can tie in directly to the grid and put extra power onto it. Batteries can help lower your consumption during nighttime and low production periods. It is a cost vs benefit ratio. We can give you the numbers so you can make an informed decision.
Does the power company pay me for the power I supply to the grid?
Yes, as of January 1, 2009, Alberta established that the energy retailer must buy back exported power at a rate equivalent to the customer’s retail rate. If you buy for 8 cents per kilowatt hour you will be credited at 8 cents per kilowatt hour. This is called Net Billing and requires a Solar PV Utility Interactive system to feed back to the grid. There are ongoing discussions in Alberta about improving the price paid for solar electricity.
In BC
When you sell to BC Hydro, you get a bill credit towards your future electricity use. If you still have an excess credit at your anniversary date of joining the program, they'll pay you for the electricity at the rate of 9.99 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). Ask about solar energy in Calgary
Are there subsidies or incentives to put up solar panels?
BC has no provincial incentives on residential solar at this time. Please email or call your MLA. There are no national incentives yet either(there are in the USA), please email or call your federal MLA and help us get them in place.
How much will I save on my electricity bill?
Depending on your site conditions and the amount of panels you put up you can supplement 20%, 50% even 100% or more depending on your usage. Let us give you a free estimate and site evaluation. Call 250-342-5516 or email dean@solarcountry.ca
What is the process for getting started?
Call or email, we will assess your site and put together a custom proposal based on your needs and desire. On acceptance and a 10% deposit we will help get your net metering or micro generation permit in place, then install your system. We'll make the process simple for you.