FAQs

General Solar Questions

Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic cells. This electricity can be used to power your home or business. Excess energy can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid, depending on your system setup. 

Yes! Even though Alberta experiences long winters, solar panels are effective year-round. They work even on cloudy days, and cold weather can actually improve panel efficiency. The city's high number of sunny days makes it a great location for solar energy. 

Solar power can significantly reduce your energy bills, increase property value, and reduce your carbon footprint. With systems like The Solar Club™, you can also take advantage of lower electricity rates during peak production times, making it a smart financial choice. 

In a grid-tied solar system, your panels generate electricity for your home, and any excess energy is sent back to the grid. If your system doesn’t generate enough power (e.g., at night), you can draw electricity from the grid. We’ll handle the technical setup and coordination with your utility provider. 

System Installation
& Costs

Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic cells. This electricity can be used to power your home or business. Excess energy can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid, depending on your system setup. 

For residential installations, it typically takes 1-3 days once all permits and inspections are completed. Utility-scale and RV/van projects vary based on the size and scope of the project, but our team will provide a detailed timeline during your consultation. 

While batteries are not required, they can be a great addition if you want to store excess energy for use during nighttime or outages. We offer both grid-tied systems (without batteries) and hybrid systems (with battery storage) based on your energy needs. 
While DIY solar panel kits exist, we recommend professional installation for safety and efficiency. Our certified installers ensure that your system is optimized for Calgary’s climate and follows local regulations and building codes. 
Solar systems are low maintenance. Panels should be cleaned occasionally to ensure maximum efficiency, but we provide maintenance services to help with regular checkups and repairs if needed. 

No, our quotes include all necessary costs, from equipment and installation to permits and inspections. We provide a transparent breakdown, so there are no surprises along the way. 

Yes, solar systems are modular, so you can expand your system if your energy needs increase. Whether you add new appliances or want to power additional parts of your property, we can help you plan for future growth. 

Performance & Durability

Solar panels are built to last 25-30 years or more. While their efficiency slightly decreases over time, most panels continue to produce energy at around 80% of their original capacity even after 25 years. We offer warranties to ensure peace of mind for the lifetime of your system. 
Solar panels are built to withstand extreme weather conditions, including hail. In Calgary, where hailstorms can occur, our panels are made with tempered glass designed to resist impacts. Most solar panels are tested and certified to handle hailstones up to one inch in diameter at speeds of 50 miles per hour. Additionally, we offer warranties to cover damage in case of severe weather. 
Snow can temporarily reduce your system’s energy production, but it usually slides off quickly due to the panels' angle and the smooth surface. Additionally, the panels still generate energy as long as some light passes through. We also offer cleaning services to ensure your system performs at its best year-round. 
If you have a grid-tied system without battery storage, your panels will shut down during a power outage to protect utility workers. However, if you have a system with battery backup, you can continue to use stored energy to power your home during outages. 
While solar panels work best in direct sunlight, they can still generate electricity on cloudy days. However, the output will be lower compared to sunny days. Calgary’s relatively high number of sunny days makes it a prime location for solar energy generation.

Yes, solar systems are modular, so you can expand your system if your energy needs increase. Whether you add new appliances or want to power additional parts of your property, we can help you plan for future growth. 

Savings, Incentives & Financials

Savings vary depending on your current electricity usage, the size of the system, and your location. Many homeowners save up to 80% on their electricity bills, and with The Solar Club™, you can maximize savings through strategic rate switching. 

The payback period typically ranges from 7 to 12 years, depending on your system size, electricity rates, and available incentives. After that, your solar system generates free electricity for the remainder of its lifespan, often saving thousands of dollars over time. 

The Government of Alberta and some municipalities offer rebates and incentives for solar installations. We stay up-to-date on the latest programs to ensure you get the best available financial benefits. 

Yes, studies show that homes with solar power systems typically sell for more than those without. Buyers are often willing to pay a premium for properties that come with the added benefit of lower energy costs. 

Have other questions? Reach out, we love talking solar!