Ready to Go Solar? Here's Your Ultimate Homeowner's Guide

If you’re thinking about adding solar panels to your home, you're not alone. Many homeowners are exploring solar energy as a way to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs. We spoke with Wes Klippert, Owner Operator at Modern Power, to get insights into the process, costs, and considerations involved in installing solar panels on your home.

Benefits of Solar Panels

The benefits of solar panels extend beyond just cost savings:

• Environmental Impact: Solar panels help reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future.
• Energy Savings: You can significantly reduce your electricity bills, especially if you generate more power than you consume.

How to Begin With Solar Panels

Starting your solar journey begins with understanding your home's specific needs and conditions. According to Wes, the process involves several key steps:

1. Assess Your Roof: "The pitch and orientation of your roof are crucial," says Wes. "A roof pitch beyond 6/12 (26.57 degrees) makes the installation complex and more expensive." Generally, a pitch of 5/12 (22.62 degrees) is the limit for comfortable installation. Additionally, consider the age of your roof; if it’s over 10 years old, it might be best to replace it before installing solar panels to avoid complications later.
2. Evaluate Shading: Shading from trees or other structures can significantly affect solar panel efficiency. “A giant tree blocking your panels can significantly affect efficiency” Wes notes.
3. Get Multiple Quotes: "Prices can vary widely, even for the same products," Wes advises. "Get at least three quotes to ensure you're getting the best deal." This can help you avoid overpaying for your system.
4. Check for Rebates and Loans: Recently, BC Hydro introduced new rebates, making it even more attractive to install solar. Wes mentions that accessing the Canada Greener Homes loans can be challenging, so it's important to explore financing options early on and plan ahead.

Cost and Payback Period

One of the major considerations when deciding to install solar panels is the cost and the payback period. The average cost of a solar panel system has dropped by about 45% in the last year and a half, making it more accessible than ever. However, inverter costs have gone up as we are using more of them to create more efficient and resilient systems. Overall, we are looking at about a 10% drop in hardware costs.

Wes explains that too big of a system or unfavorable conditions can lead to a longer payback period. "The typical payback period is 7-9 years.”

In B.C., we have net metering. There are three BC Hydro rates to consider when you are generating solar:

• Step 2: $0.14 per kWh (shortest payback)
• Step 1: $0.11 per kWh (medium payback)
• Net Credits: BC Hydro buys net credits at $0.05 per kWh (longest payback). These are only paid out on your account anniversary if you generate a surplus.

A small system will typically offset only your more expensive step 2 usage, leading to a shorter payback period. Unless your goal is to be off grid or live net zero, you may want to keep it on the small side.

Strategies for Budget-Friendly Solar Decisions

Wes recommends several strategies to help homeowners make informed decisions within their budget:

• Size Your System Appropriately: Wes suggests. “A smaller system, like 5KW, often has the best payback.” You can always add more in the future.
• Consider Your Goals: Decide whether your goal is to offset a portion of your energy use or to go net-zero. If net zero, a shorter payback period won’t be your priority
• Leverage Incentives: Utilize available incentives and rebates to reduce project costs and payback period.

Not Ready Yet? Preparing for Solar During Your Next Reroofing

“Having a plan is key,” Wes emphasizes. Taking steps ahead of time, when it’s less effort, can save you time and money when you eventually install solar panels. During your next reroofing:

• Install an Electrical Box on Your Roof: Run wiring through the attic to an electrical box on the roof before the new roof goes on. It will be much easier.
• Move Vents Out of the Way: Roofing penetrations like vents can get in the way of the ideal solar array. Plan where yours will go ahead of time and work with your roofing professional to ensure that any obstacles are removed.

Add Solar Only After You Have Efficient Heating and Cooling

Adding solar will definitely save you money. However, that won’t be nearly as effective if you have major inefficiencies with your heating and cooling system, which includes your heating source, windows, insulation, and air sealing. Before you generate electricity, you should reduce your consumption.

By working with a whole home energy company like Paddio, you might be able to reduce your consumption and begin generating your own electricity, all at the same time. Where this gets even better, you may be able to finance the entire project with the $40,000 10-year interest free loan from Canada Greener Homes. We’re here to help. 

For more detailed information and personalized advice, you can get your free home energy assessment at paddio.ca.