Top 10 Reasons to Go Solar in Atlantic Canada in 2024
This year presents an unparalleled opportunity for homeowners and small businesses to embrace solar energy. The combination of technological advancements, enhanced regional incentives, protection against changing weather patterns, and fluctuating energy costs all converge to make 2024 the sweet spot for transitioning to SolarU energy.
If you’re still on the fence about whether now is the time to consult a solar expert to assess your energy needs – we’ve got ten reasons to make the call today!
- Robust incentive programs
According to a recent poll commissioned by Clean Energy Canada, the majority of Canadians consider a renewable energy system to be more cost-effective and dependable than one reliant on fossil fuels – but only 5% are generating energy from rooftop solar. Why? Most point to cost. This year brings renewed financial mechanisms to ease the financial burden.
Here are the regional and nationwide incentives that have made solar more financially accessible than ever in 2024.
Nationwide
This program offers Canadian homeowners interest-free loans to make energy-efficient upgrades, including solar panel installations, promoting greener homes across the country.
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia SwitchPACE Program
The SwitchPACE Program provides affordable financing options for homeowners to implement renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, including solar installations.
Nova Scotia SolarHomes Program
This initiative offers rebates to Nova Scotia residents who install solar photovoltaic systems, making solar energy more accessible and affordable.
Nova Scotia Home Battery Pilot
The Home Battery Pilot program supports the integration of battery storage systems with solar power, enhancing energy resilience and sustainability.
New Brunswick
Total Home Energy Savings Program
New Brunswick’s program offers incentives for comprehensive home energy upgrades, including the adoption of solar technology, to boost overall energy efficiency.
Prince Edward Island
PEI Solar Electric Rebate Program
This rebate program encourages the use of solar electric systems by providing financial incentives to reduce the installation costs for residents of Prince Edward Island.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador Green Technology Tax Credit
The tax credit initiative supports homeowners and businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador who invest in green technologies, such as solar energy systems, by offering tax relief.
- Innovations in solar battery storage enhance efficiency.
Remarkable advancements in solar battery storage technology have made solar photovoltaic (PV) systems more efficient and reliable than ever before.
Modern solar battery storage systems have set new industry standards, allowing homeowners and businesses to store excess solar energy during the day and use it when the sun isn’t shining. For example, the development of lithium-ion and next-generation solid-state batteries has significantly increased the capacity and lifespan of solar storage solutions, making renewable energy more efficient and cost-effective.
- Resilience against outages
As mentioned above, upgrading your solar PV system with additional storage not only maximizes energy efficiency but also provides a dependable power source during peak usage times and unexpected outages related to extreme weather events.
In late 2022, Hurricane Fiona brought record rainfall and winds and left nearly half a million Atlantic Canada residents without power. This spring, Nova Scotia witnessed several significant weather events leading to widespread power disruptions, leaving residents without power for days.
By investing in solar battery storage, homeowners can ensure a continuous power supply even during these critical times. This means that essential appliances and heating systems can keep running, charging ports are available for critical communication, and security systems can stay online, providing peace of mind and safety for families during severe weather conditions.
- Solar is a hedge against energy inflation
One of the smartest and most compelling reasons to go solar this year is that it serves as proactive protection against energy inflation.
Nova Scotia’s energy rates increased by 15.0% from May 2023 to May 2024. Compared to the previous year, 2024 energy prices are up 4.1% nationally, with eight provinces reporting higher energy prices. NB Power recently announced a total average increase for residential customers of 13.2% over a 12-month period that started in April 2024.
As utility rates continue to rise, locking in your energy costs with a solar system on your roof can be a game-changer for your household budget. Imagine no longer being at the mercy of unpredictable energy price hikes and instead enjoying the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what you’ll be paying for electricity each month.
- Property value trends favor solar installations
Looking to sell your home in the near future? Do yourself a favor and install solar now to reap the added value in the future. Property value trends show that solar installations can help your home sell 20% faster.
Potential buyers are increasingly aware of the long-term savings and environmental benefits that come with owning a solar-powered home, making properties with solar installations more attractive in the real estate market. This added appeal not only speeds up the selling process but can also lead to a higher resale value of 4% more on average, providing an excellent return on investment.
- Advanced monitoring as part of a solar PV system gives more control
Solar owners are in the driver’s seat in 2024. Advanced monitoring as part of a solar PV system provides greater control over your entire home’s or business’s energy use, offering detailed insights into what you spend for energy.
These systems can track energy consumption in real-time, identify inefficiencies, and even suggest how and where to make adjustments for optimal energy usage. This not only helps reduce wasted energy but also empowers you to make informed decisions to further decrease your utility bills.
- Solar modules and warranties last longer
In the past, solar panel warranties were significantly shorter and offered less comprehensive coverage compared to today’s standards. Typically, warranties ranged from 10 to 15 years, reflecting the limitations in technology and materials of that period. Today, manufacturers are so confident in the durability and efficiency of their products that they’re offering warranties for panels that extend up to 25-30 years.
Several factors have contributed to the increased longevity, including the development of more robust solar cells designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, improvements in tempered glass and more durable framing, and stricter quality control measures and rigorous testing protocols to ensure the reliability of their products. What this means for you as a homeowner is peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected for the long haul.
- The installation cost is decreasing
This affordability is largely due to untangled supply chains from the last several years and significant investments by the Canadian government in renewable energy. These factors have collectively reduced production and installation costs, making solar power more financially accessible.
At SolarU, we hold stock in our warehouse, which ensures that logistics are affordable, smooth, and timely. Their efficient supply chain management means our customers can expect quicker installation times and fewer delays, saving you money in the process.
- Personal investment in a more sustainable world
Owning your energy usage is the first step in taking an active part in contributing to a healthier planet. In terms of lifecycle emissions—including manufacturing, operation, and end-of-life processes—rooftop solar is around 12 times cleaner than natural gas and 20 times cleaner than coal. Adopting a hardworking solar PV system that seamlessly powers your home in the background means that your carbon footprint shrinks with every solar watt produced.
In some Atlantic Canada regions, the environmental benefits extend beyond individual usage. Excess energy can be sent back to the grid, reducing the strain on traditional power plants and lowering carbon emissions for the entire community, creating a cleaner, more resilient energy system.
- SolarU specialists make the process seamless
Finally, you’re not alone in facing an energy transition in 2024. SolarU offers personalized consultation services, guiding you through every step of the process—from initial assessment to final installation. Our team of experts ensures that your solar system is custom-designed to meet your specific energy needs, maximizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
We’ll help you craft a solar PV system that will help you get the most out of financial incentives and give you a lifetime of energy independence.
Contact us today for a free consultation! https://www.solaru.ca/get-started/