Ontario Solar Panel Rebate

Solar Panel Incentives and Rebates in Ontario

How Do Solar Incentives Work in Canada?

In Canada, solar incentives are a significant draw for those looking to upgrade their properties with solar power. Promoting energy efficiency and reduced future electricity bills, there are several benefits and incentives to switching to solar energy. For example, the Canada Greener Homes Grant offers Canadian homeowners up to $5,000 in grants for making energy-efficient upgrades to their homes, like converting to a solar energy system. You can also get a refund for your energy audit, up to $600. And newly added in 2023 is the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) offered through Enbridge, making total rebates $10,600. Across the nation, incentives vary as provinces adopt distinct carbon pollution pricing systems.
As for Ontario solar incentives, this province offers net metering for renewable energy sources, enabling residents to offset electricity bills by feeding excess electricity from their solar panel system back to the grid. However, strict regulations limit energy production, especially for systems over 10 kW, making parts of Ontario grid-constrained. To ensure you have access to solar rebates and the net metering program, Solr Solvr is here to help.

Ontario Solar Financing & Incentives in 2023

In Ontario, the government offers various incentives to encourage homeowners to switch to a solar power system. These incentives make solar panel installation more affordable for Ontario residents, helping to reduce the cost of upgrading to solar energy.

• Ontario Net-Metering Program. In Ontario, the net metering incentive allows eligible homeowners to connect solar panels to the grid and generate electricity, potentially saving money on energy consumption. Once the solar energy system is installed and approved, utility companies measure both energy usage and excess energy sent back to the grid. Homeowners receive credits on their bills for the excess energy, calculated at the same rates charged for consumption. These credits can reduce energy bills and be carried over for up to 12 months, allowing homeowners with solar PV systems and possibly a battery storage system to maximize savings.

• PACE Solar Incentive. Commercial property owners in Ottawa have access to this financial tool that reduces the costs of solar panels and energy-efficient appliances. By attaching a voluntary special assessment to the property, owners can apply for a loan of up to 25 years to go towards the cost of eco-friendly upgrades. This arrangement, distinct from traditional loans, enhances the ease of investing in renewable energy projects.
• Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+). Enbridge Gas and the Canada's Greener Homes Grant have partnered to provide rebates towards clean energy retrofits such as home insulation, windows and doors, heat pumps and renewable energy systems like solar panels. There are enhanced rebates up to $10,000. Participants can also offset the cost of their EnerGuide home energy audit with an additional rebate of $600.
• The Canada Greener Homes Interest-Free Loan. This zero-interest loan provides homeowners with up to $40,000 to upgrade to solar energy. The financial benefits derived from reduced electricity consumption with solar panels can aid in paying off the loan through interest-free instalments.

How can I get a rebate on solar panels in the province of Ontario?

Getting a rebate on solar panels in Ontario can be achieved through a series of steps designed to support clean energy generation projects. Here's a simplified guide:

• Research: Start by researching available rebates and incentives for solar panels in Ontario. Understand the criteria for eligibility which usually revolves around clean energy generation and energy savings.
• Enlist and Conduct a Home Energy Audit: By signing up for the HER+ on Enbridge’s site, you will be provided a list of energy advisors in your area, to conduct a pre-audit. Solr Solvr can help expedite the process by linking you to a firm that reduces lead times by half.
• Contact a Solar Broker, or select a Qualified Installer: A broker, like Solr Solvr, can provide information and an assessment, then connect you with multiple expert installers for competitive quotes. Our team can connect you with a trusted list of solar power installers in your area. Make sure to choose a professional installer who is familiar with solar systems and the incentive process in Ontario. 
• Installation: Have your chosen installer set up the solar panels and connect them to the utility grid, ensuring they meet the necessary standards for renewable resource energy production.
• Apply for Rebates: Post installation, apply for available rebates through the designated portals or offices. Your installer may assist in this process, achieving greater 
• Document Submission: Submit the required documents showcasing your solar installation and its adherence to the standards of clean energy projects.
• Utilize the Rebates: Upon approval, utilize the rebates towards free efficiency upgrades or apply them as discounts on your energy bills.
• Maintain Your Solar System: Ensure your solar system is well-maintained to continue enjoying the benefits of solar panels in Ontario, including a reduction in energy costs and a lesser carbon footprint. This is not time-consuming and includes keeping them free from dirt and debris, usually conducted twice a year.

Following thesesteps diligently will put you on a path to securing rebates, aiding in theaffordability and sustainability of solar energy investments in Ontario.

Steps for Installing Solar in Ontario

• Assess How Much Energy You Need. Knowing your level of energy consumption will help determine how many solar panels you need to install. A good way to do this is by assessing your own electricity bills. See how much energy you have used over the past year and consider potential energy consumption changes in the future (e.g., adding appliances, electric vehicles, structural add-ons, etc.).
• Enter Your Solar Details Online. Enter details like your name, postal code, and average hydro bill into the form on our website. Our system will display how much you can save by switching to renewable energy.
• Gain a Free Solar Assessment. Based on the information provided, our team will send you a custom report detailing the costs and benefits of installing solar panels to your home or commercial building. 
• Choose Your Solar Panel Installer. We will send you up to 3 quotes from solar system installers in your area. All of which are vetted and trusted by our team of experts. Once you've chosen an installer, you can sign the contacts with Solr Solvr or directly with your installer. 
• Start Making Your Own Energy. Let the solar installations begin. Your chosen installer will optimize your home or building with new solar equipment, decreasing your energy prices and increasing your property value. 
• Connect with Our Team. Once completed, contact our team at Solr Solvr for a free home energy-saving gift. Solr Solvr will remain in contact for a year after your connection to ensure that everything is running optimally and there are no warranty issues.

Ontario, CA Solar Incentives FAQs

How much can I save on my electric bill annually byadding solarpanel systems to my Ontario home?

Installing solar panels to your Ontario home can result in an 80% reduction in consequent energy bills. Ontario residents can save even more on their electric bills by earning credits from selling excess electricity back to the grid through the net-metering program.

When does the federal solar tax credit end?

For commercial businesses, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 increased the solar tax credit to 30%, this tax credit will start to decrease in 2032 and fade out completely in 2035.

Can I combine solar and another type of renewableenergy to power my home?

While solar panels are a reliable source of energy, there are hybrid systems available that combine wind and solar energy to produce even more power. 

How do I get the most savings from going solar?

It is most important to optimize your home energy before you solarize.  Most importantly, once you go solar, you can save even more by converting to more efficient electric appliances, like heat pumps or heat pump water heaters, induction top stoves or electric vehicles.