Shining A Light on Solar: The Ultimate Q&A For Harnessing The Sun In Ontario

April 8, 2024
May 2020

Embarking on a solar journey in Ontario? Have questions? We've got answers! Dive into our comprehensive guide where we tackle the burning questions about going solar in the land of lakes. Let's demystify solar power together!

 1.  Do solar panels have a bedtime?

The solar panels don’t generate any energy when it’s dark since they require sunlight to produce energy, but you can store energy in batteries to keep your home powered after dark as well. Should you opt not to integrate batteries into your system, you may continue utilizing the grid for nocturnal energy consumption, in line with the principles of net metering. For a detailed exploration of this topic, we invite you to take a look at our blog post on net metering.

2.  What happens to solar panels when the sky is moody?

Yes, even on those grey, overcast days, your solar panels are hard at work. Their output might dip slightly, but they'll still be generating electricity to power your home. Probably not enough to power the whole consumers at your home, but the grid is there to support in case of net-metering, or your own batteries previously charged.

 3.  Can solar panels stand the rain?

Absolutely! Rain is actually beneficial as it helps clean the panels, ensuring they work efficiently. A little water won't dampen their spirits or output.

 4.  Do solar panels chill out in the snow?

Solar panels can indeed perform in snowy conditions, though a heavy blanket of snow may obstruct their energy production. Thankfully, most panels are installed at an angle, encouraging snow to slide off.

 5. Are solar panels winter warriors?

Indeed, they are! Solar panels can still gather sunlight and produce energy in winter, albeit slightly less than during sunnier months.

 6. What makes solar energy the green dream?

Solar energy is clean, green, and increasingly wallet-friendly. It's a pollution-free power source that's great for our planet. Also you can have an ease of mind from the constantly increasing energy prices.

 7.  Does going solar mean going pollution-free?

Spot on! Solar panels produce energy without burning fuel or emitting pollutants, making them a clean energy source.

 8.  Do solar panels ever hurt the environment?

Not in their day-to-day operation. However, it's crucial to responsibly recycle panels at the end of their lifecycle.

 9.  What's the deal with solar panel maintenance?

Low maintenance is the name of the game. A quick clean now and then is all they need to keep them performing at their best. With Ontario climate having proper rains every then and now, most solar installations in the province are totally maintenance-free throughout the year.

 10.  Do solar panels fade into the sunset eventually?

All heroes fade eventually, and solar panels are no exception. They typically shine bright for 25–30 years. The majority of solar panel manufacturers provide at least 25-year performance guarantee and 15-year product warranty.

 11.  Is solar energy easier on the wallet than traditional power?

Most of the time, yes. The cost-effectiveness of solar energy can depend on local solar policies and utility rates, but it often comes out on top. With the existing incentives within Canada, installing solar panels are totally financially attractive as well.

 12.  Are fossil fuels getting a run for their money?

Solar energy is not only cleaner but often cheaper than fossil fuels, especially when you factor in environmental costs. Carbon tax is drastically increasing every year. This will directly impact energy costs either in form of utility bills in your mailbox or the numbers you see everyday at gas stations.

 13.  How does solar energy do a world of good?

By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, solar power plays a crucial role in creating a healthier planet.

 14.  How much can I save on my utility bills by installing solar panels?

We can help you take a closer look at your utility bills for a breakdown of your energy use and costs. Once we do the analyze, we will send you a report and suggestions on how much solar system you would need to optimize your utility bills.

 15.  Will solar panels make my home more desirable?

Absolutely! Homes equipped with solar energy systems often see an increase in property value. According to a study done by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), it was found that solar homes sold 20% faster, for 17% more than the equivalent non-solar homes, across several subdivisions built by different California builders.

 17.  What’s the scoop on net metering?

Net metering is like a bank account for your solar energy, allowing you to earn credits for excess power you generate. Please refer to our comprehensive blog post about net metring for further information.

 18.  Solar panels: how do they do it?

Solar panels soak up sunlight and convert it into dc power, which is then transformed into ac power by an inverter, powering your home or feeding back into the grid.

 19.  Will I still receive an electricity bill if I go solar?

Unless you're completely off-grid, yes. However, solar panels can significantly reduce or even zero out your bill.

 20.  What’s the solar protocol during a blackout?

Grid-tied systems typically shut down for safety, but if you have a solar-plus-storage system, you can keep the lights on during outages.

 21.  Is my rooftop a solar superstar?

Ideal roofs are south-facing, spacious, and shade-free. But don't worry, there are solutions for less-than-perfect setups. The derating in non-ideal roofs are almost negligible in some cases with the new design techniques and state-of0the-art products currently available in the market.

 22.  Roof first, solar second?

It's wise to ensure your roof is in top condition before installing solar panels to avoid the hassle of removing and reinstalling them later.

 23.  What if my solar system has a hiccup?

If something seems off, reach out to us. Monitoring data can help diagnose the issue, and warranties often cover repairs. In Circuit Energy leaning on our experiences within the industry, we ensure the design is code compliant and safe, with the optimum performance and minimal probable downtimes. It’s quite common to expect uptimes of higher than 97% for the system.

 24.  How do I get paid?

For your solar surplus, through net metering, you earn credits for extra energy you generate, reducing your bill or even rolling credits into future bills. In case you use the excess energy, you need from the grid, you will still need to pay for the energy used. A properly sized system will minimize your utility bills.

Armed with these insights, you're ready to embark on your solar journey in Ontario with confidence. Here's to a brighter, greener future! Feel free to contact us in case you have a potential project in mind.

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