Grid-Tied Solar
Use solar energy to offset your electrical consumption in your home or business, or be net-zero.
We’ll do your project right – the first time.
If you have access to the utility grid, and your main concern is getting the most value from your investment, grid-tied solar is the way to go. It has the lowest upfront cost because you don’t have to buy batteries to store the power you generate. The grid takes care of storage for you.
During peak hours, you may generate more electricity than you need to power your home. In Nova Scotia, the utility will buy back that excess power, which stretches the value of your investment even further.
There is a lot more to solar than just bolting panels to your roof.
Simply put, panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. Panels are rated by power output (in watts). More efficient panels come at a cost premium, but can take up less space on your property.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are available in several sizes and manufacturers.
Typical Grid-Tied Solar Equipment:
Solar Modules, Inverter(s), Racking Equipment, Electrical Safety (disconnects, lightning arrest, etc), Monitoring (optional)
Grid-Tied Solar Services
We customize each project to our client’s needs, based on a variety of factors such as equipment availability, suitability for the climate, and specific needs of the site. All of the equipment that we sell and install is approved for use in Canada.
We have the expert technical knowledge to ensure that your project is designed and installed properly.
- Code compliant
- Efficient and effective
- Custom designed for your property
- System commissioning & tutorials available
Let’s begin.
(902) 306-1200
F.A.Q.
Looking for some basic information? Read our FAQ here, or check out our articles in our Learning Centre. If you don’t see your question here, submit it below!
How much will my solar system cost?
Since many factors affect pricing, it’s difficult to provide an exact price for a solar electric system without performing a site evaluation. Factors that affect pricing include: how much electricity you currently use, how much you want to reduce your electricity bill (for instance, 50, 80 or 100 percent?), the solar panel brand you choose, the orientation of your roof, your roof’s material and age, the size and type of your service entrance and much more.
What’s the difference: solar electric vs solar hot water?
Many people get confused between these and use the terms interchangeably. However, “solar electric” means that the electricity is generated from sunlight (seems obvious, right?). This includes direct generation using photovoltaics (“PV”) like solar panels.
Solar hot water doesn’t provide electricity; instead, the sunlight heats water for use in in-floor heating, swimming pools, etc. It’s also an excellent choice for supplementing domestic water.
Can I add more solar panels to my system later on?
Adding solar panels or expanding your array is possible but can be complicated. It’s easier to size your system correctly the first time, which is why we as your solar installer will make sure we understand your current usage and any reasons that your usage might change in the near future.
For a grid-tied solar electric system, an Enhanced Net Metering application through Nova Scotia Power is required prior to installation. As of 2013, the application is based on the current system size, and any future additions require a new application at the time of installation.
I need a new roof. Can I put solar panels on it now or wait until the roof is in?
Your home solar system could last for twenty years or more, so it would make sense to have at least twenty good years left on your roof. If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, it’s best to do so before you get solar, so you don’t have to remove and re-install the panels later on.
Will my solar system work (ie., produce power) during a power outage?
Not without additional special equipment and a battery backup. During an outage, your generating facility must be disconnected from the distribution system to protect the power crews as they work on the grid to restore power.