Q: What are the effects of snow on the system performance, will I have to brush the snow off the panels in the winter?
A: On an annual basis the effects of snow will only reduce the total energy produced by about 2 to 8%. This of course will depend on the tilt of the solar panels. If you have a 3/12 roof pitch the losses will be closer to 8%, if you have a steeper 12/12 roof pitch then the losses will be closer to 2%.
Q: What happens when the grid goes down, will I have still be able to use my solar power?
A: By far the most common type of solar systems are the gird-connected, or grid-dependent. These systems have inverters that require a signal from the grid to operate and produce power, without the signal they shutdown due to safety reasons.
Q: How do I know if solar is right for my home?
A: The main thing you want to look for ideally is an unobstructed south facing roof surface that receives sunlight from 9:00am to 3:00pm daily. However, module level optimization for solar panels have come a long way and help systems that have shading concerns or face east or west.
Q: How will the energy produced from the solar system effect my electrical bill? A: When you get a solar system installed in Alberta the utility company will install a bi-directional meter capable of net metering. This means you can still use electricity from the grid but you can also export electricity back to the grid with excess solar energy. The meter keeps track of the imports and exports and will display a net balance on your next bill.
Q: Are there any incentive programs available for installing solar?
A: We keep up to date on the most relevant incentive programs and keep them listed on our home page.