Have you ever considered installing solar panels on your roof to generate electricity?

Using the sun as a free resource for renewable energy sounds attractive.

But how much would it cost you to install solar panels in Canada?

Here’s some encouraging news: the price of solar panels has significantly dropped, now costing less than one-third compared to ten years ago.

On average, installing solar panels in Canada starts at $15,000 before applying for grants but could drop to $10,000 with rebates.

While the price might not be cheap, you can recover your investment in about 6 to 10 years.

You can even qualify for government grants or incentives to further reduce expenses.

Still, the payback period depends on factors like your home’s size, local electricity rates, and the financing options you choose.

How To Calculate The Solar Panel Cost?

To determine the total cost of installing a solar system, you must know the cost per watt.

You can calculate this by multiplying the required system size by the rated wattage and dividing the result by the overall system cost.

For instance, let’s assume you live in Alberta and consume approximately 7,000 kWh of electricity annually.

Now, how many solar panels do you need, and how much will it cost you?

Average price per watt: According to EnergyHub, the cost per watt is $2.97.

Average watt per solar panel: 250-400 kW

Since you know that you require 7,000 watts or 7 kW, you can utilize the following formula to calculate the total cost:

Total Cost = System Size in Watts × Cost per Watt = 7,000 watts × $2.97/watt.

Therefore, the total cost for a solar panel system that can cover an annual usage of 7,000 kWh. Thus, you will need roughly 14 to 18 x 400W solar panels and a total budget of $20,790.

However, note that this is a simplified assumption, as actual production can vary based on location, panel orientation, and other factors.

What Affects Solar Panels Cost?

The size of the system, the type of panel, and the amount of electricity your home uses are just a few of the variables that affect how much solar panels cost.

If your home uses more electricity and you require a more extensive system, the cost will be higher.

The cost generally comprises two components – hardware (materials used in the solar system) and soft costs (expenses associated with labor, permits, and installation).

The type of solar panel you choose also affects the cost.

Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient but expensive, while polycrystalline panels are cheaper.

Thin-film panels are the least efficient and cheapest.

The type of system you prefer may also affect the cost.

The least expensive option is a system connected to the power grid, though upgrades like adding battery storage will increase the cost.

On the other hand, fully off-grid systems are the most expensive since you’ll require more batteries and backup generators.

How To Cut The Price Of Solar Panels

Several solar incentives are available throughout Canada designed to alleviate the cost of solar installations. These incentives include various rebates, financing options, and tax credits.

For example:

• Canada-Wide Incentives: The Canada Greener Homes Loan offers a 10-year interest-free loan of up to $40,000 for financing solar systems.
• Provincial Incentives: Each province has specific programs. For instance, Alberta offers seven solar energy incentives, including rebates and financing options. Manitoba has a rebate program offering up to $0.50 per watt and a home energy efficiency loan for solar projects. Ontario provides rebates and financing programs like the Durham Greener Homes Deep Retrofit Rebate.
• Local Programs: Some cities and regions offer unique incentives. For example, Ottawa residents can access a loan of up to $120,000 for solar projects, and Halifax has the Solar City program with a 10-year fixed-interest loan.

Remember, incentives may vary by province and locality, with some providing direct rebates while others offer financing options or loans to reduce the initial cost of solar panel installation.

Conclusion

Solar panels are a good investment in Canada, both financially and ecologically.

While they require a significant initial cost, the long-term benefits are worth it.

The price of solar panels depends on a few things, like the type of panels, local climate, and the amount of energy you need.

To get an accurate estimate of how much it would cost, you can contact a solar company like Panel Upgrade Experts.

They can help you determine your specific needs and give you a competitive price.

Go now to their website and connect with their experts for a more precise assessment of your solar needs.

FQAs

1. Are there other possible expenses besides solar panel installation costs?

Solar energy sometimes requires additional costs, such as increased insurance, periodic maintenance, panel cleaning, repairs, potential roof work, utility charges, solar batteries, system monitoring, and tree removal.

2. Can I install an oversized solar system?

Although there are no universal restrictions on the size of a solar system for individual consumers, state regulations and local utility companies may limit the amount of power you can generate.

3. What should be considered when choosing solar panels?

When considering solar panel costs, focus on the price per watt per hour rather than the cost of each panel. Consider purchasing used or refurbished panels from those who’ve upgraded for immediate savings. If performance and longevity (up to 30 years) are priorities, opt for panels with higher power ratings and longer lifespans.