Why not generate your own power?
There’s never been a better time for installing solar panels on your property to generate part or all of the power you use:
- The cost of solar arrays continues to come down as manufacturing technology is improved and more systems are installed
- The payback for solar panels gets better every time power rates go up (as they did here in NB last month)
- Depending on where you live, there are some great incentives available
Basic solar systems consist of just four key components:
- Solar panels
- A system for mounting them; roof mounts tend to be cheaper than ground mounts, but ground mounts offer perfect orientation and angle to the sun
- An inverter, to convert the direct current generated by panels to grid-compatible 110 volt alternating current
- A bidirectional meter, installed by your utility to measure power flowing into the grid when panels produce more than is being used in your home, and from the grid when your home’s power consumption exceeds what panels are generating (IE at night)
Even though the federal government’s Greener Homes Grant has been cancelled (with a new program expected in the coming months), an interest-free loan of up to $40,000 is still available under the federal government’s Greener Homes Loan. Additional incentives are available under many provincial energy efficiency programs as well. Payback periods for basic solar systems are now in the range of 7-10 years, depending on location, power rates, incentives and type of system.
We’ve had a grid-tied, ground mount solar array with battery backup at our home for over three years, and last year added a second grid-tied array on the roof of our garage. Together, the two arrays are providing 100% of the electricity we use to power our home and charge our EV.
If you’re within range and interested in seeing an installed, functioning solar system on a pretty ordinary property, consider this your invitation to attend our upcoming Solar Open House Saturday, May 11 from 10 AM to 4 PM; details are here*.
Free energy from the sun; savings, especially in the face of rising electricity costs; and zero-emission electricity… what’s not to love about installing solar panels and generating your own solar power?
*PS Please don’t be deterred if you’re not into ‘Green’ politics; no pressure. Donations to the party are welcome but optional; my aim is simply to help anyone with an interest in solar. Plus, of course, energy self-sufficiency, resilience, jobs, lower bills and lower emissions for NB ☺️.)
In the news:
A new study suggests climate change could become the main driver of biodiversity loss by mid-century.
Nearly 90% of vehicles sold in Norway in March were fully electric, but here are even bigger stories: 50% of vehicles sold in China in the first half of this month were electric, and more than one in five cars sold worldwide this year is expected to be electric!
Security, savings, self-determination: Canada’s largest off-grid solar farm is expected to save a BC First Nation 1.1 million litres of diesel fuel a year.
Quotable
“Since early January the cost of a litre of gasoline has gone up 20 cents and critics of the carbon tax haven’t batted an eye. But a 3 cent increase on April 1—which will be rebated to Canadians—is a crisis.”
- Dan Woynillowicz on LinkedIn (the whole post is worth a read)