Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Alberta

Common questions and benefits of going solar

• How does solar power work?

  Solar power works by capturing sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) panels, which convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. This DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity using an inverter, making it suitable for use in your home or business. Any excess electricity generated can be stored in batteries or sent back to the grid for credits through net metering.

• What is the overview of a Solar PV System?

  There are no moving parts so no user intervention is required in the day-to-day operation of the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System. It is designed for automatic, unattended operation. When there is sufficient light, either direct or indirect, your PV System generates electricity for use. The energy produced will be consumed by loads. 

  Any excess electrical energy generated by your PV System will be exported to your local electrical transmission grid. Your local Wires Service Provider (WSP) and electrical retailer will work in conjunction to record (via a bi-directional meter installed for free by your WSP) all exported electrical energy in kWhs where you will be compensated for all net-electrical energy exported.

• Do I have to go off the grid when I switch to solar?

  No, it is very uncommon that you will notice any interruption when implementing solar panels for your business. The solar power systems we install are grid-connected and do not require batteries.

• How do I know if my building is a good candidate for solar panels?

  As solar is a long-term investment in your property, any building with a rooftop in good condition has the potential of being a great candidate for our installations.

  You can contact us for a free estimate to get more detailed information for your specific situation.

• What are the benefits of using solar over standard electricity?

  • Save money every year
  • Increase the value of your property
  • Predictable electricity rates
  • Large tax incentives
  • Gain an ROI quickly
  • Demonstrate commitment to social responsibility
  • Demonstrate sustainable practices
  • Owning and generating your own electricity
  • Reducing daytime peak electrical loads
  • Diversifying the local energy portfolio reduces financial risk

• What is solar panel degradation, and how does it affect system performance?

  Solar panel degradation refers to the gradual loss of efficiency over time. On average, solar panels degrade by about 0.5% per year, meaning after 25 years, your system will still produce approximately 87.5% of its original output. Gridworks Energy‘s panels come with a performance warranty, ensuring long-term reliability.

• What happens if the sun isn’t shining?

  Solar panels work even on cloudy days, though their efficiency will be reduced. In cases of heavy cloud cover or during the night, your system will rely on stored energy (if you have a battery) or draw electricity from the grid as needed.

What current rebates are there for solar in Alberta?

• Is the Greener Homes Grant Available?

  Currently, the Greener Homes Grant program is no longer accepting new applicants. We anticipate this grant to return in 2025.

• What is the overview of a Solar PV System?

  There are no moving parts so no user intervention is required in the day-to-day operation of the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System. It is designed for automatic, unattended operation. When there is sufficient light, either direct or indirect, your PV System generates electricity for use. The energy produced will be consumed by loads. 

  Any excess electrical energy generated by your PV System will be exported to your local electrical transmission grid. Your local Wires Service Provider (WSP) and electrical retailer will work in conjunction to record (via a bi-directional meter installed for free by your WSP) all exported electrical energy in kWhs where you will be compensated for all net-electrical energy exported.

What is the Return On Investment (ROI) for solar?

• Will my solar panels generate electricity during cloudy, rainy, or snowy days?

  The more direct and intense the UV rays from the sun, the higher the production of energy produced by solar panels will be. 

  There will always be electricity generated as long as there is visible light, though it will be less. 

  The amount of energy solar panels will produce depends on several factors, including the weather and general climate of the area your panels are installed.

  Depending on the style of building, there are different variations in technology that can be used to improve the effectiveness of solar panels. Contact us to find out the best individual solution for your situation.

• How much will I save on my electricity bills every month after switching to solar?

  Depending on the size of the system you can create credits equal to your electricity consumption costs over the year by switching to solar. Keep in mind that most solar setups usually aren’t meant to completely remove your need for the regular electricity grid, but to reduce your reliance on it.

• When do i see the ROI for my solar panel investment?

  Depending on the size of the system and the amount of energy that it creates in comparison to your consumption, payoff period as well as rebates in place at the time of construction payoff for a residential system is between 7 – 15 years. Commercial systems are between 10 – 15 years. Joining the Solar Club at 25.8 cents/kwh will further reduce your ROI time by a couple of years.

• How does shading impact solar panel performance?

  Shading can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels, as even small shadows can decrease energy output. Gridworks Energy uses advanced design techniques and solar optimization technologies like microinverters to mitigate the effects of shading and maximize energy production.

Commercial Solar FAQs

• As a commercial building owner, how do I bill my tenants for their solar energy usage?

  By installing an electric meter you can monitor how much solar energy each tenant is using and bill them accordingly.

• What happens to the solar energy that isn’t used by my commercial property?

  In Canada, depending on the time of year means you’re building may not use all the solar energy generated on a daily basis. In this case, you’re able to sell the energy back to the grid, increasing the profitability of your commercial solar system setup.

  Even if you don’t consume all the energy solar generates, none of it is wasted. The excess energy generated will be sold to your electrical retailer and that energy will be dispersed to your neighbors for consumption.

• How will solar panels affect my business' property value?

  The addition of a solar system will undoubtedly increase the value of a commercial property. Not only that, investing in renewable energy gives the image of a green-friendly business and updates the physical appearance.

Residential Solar FAQs

• How do I maintain my residential solar panels?

  Solar panels require very little maintenance. Occasional cleaning and maintenance checks might be recommended to remove debris or snow can ensure optimal performance over the life span of the system.

• Will solar panels work on my home's roof?

  Solar panels can be installed on most roof types, including metal, asphalt shingles, and tile. Our team at Gridworks Energy conducts a thorough site assessment to determine if your roof has sufficient space, sunlight exposure, and structural integrity to support a solar installation.

• Can I go off-grid with a residential solar system?

  While it’s possible to go off-grid with a solar system, it requires substantial battery storage and careful energy management. Most homeowners choose grid-tied systems with net metering to reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources while still having the grid as a backup.

Contact Gridworks Energy today