THE BENEFITS OF GOING SOLAR IN ALBERTA
Thinking about going solar for your home of farm? Becoming a micro-generator in Alberta can lower your electricity bills and reduce your environmental impact, giving you more control over your household power.
At Camrose Energy we enjoy helping Albertans understand what going solar really means with clear, friendly guidance so you can make the right choice for your home. THere’s no pressure. Just honest answers from your local solar experts.
WHY ALBERTANS ARE GOING SOLAR?
THE KEY BENEFITS THAT MAKE SOLAR A GOOD FIT FOR ALBERTA HOMES AND FARMS
Alberta has some of the sunniest weather in Canada which helps solar panels produce plenty of electricity throughout the year. These strong solar conditions can also lead to competitive payback times making solar a good choice for many Alberta homes and farms.
LOWER ELECTRICITY BILLS
When you generate your own electricity you don’t need to buy as much from the grid. On sunny days your panels can cover much of the power you use and create real savings over the life of your system.
CLEAN, RENEWABLE ENERGY
Solar power lowers greenhouse gas emissions and supports a greener future for communities across Alberta. Every kilowatt you produce helps reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
PROTECTION FROM RISING PRICES
As a micro-generator the electricity your system produces helps offset rising electricity costs. Those savings can continue long after the cost of the original install has been paid back.
STRONGER
PROPERTY
VALUES
Solar can make homes and farms attractive to buyers who value lower utility costs and clean energy upgrades.
IS SOLAR RIGHT FOR YOUR HOME OR FARM?
Every property is different and a good installer will evaluate your roof, yard, or outbuildings to ensure the best fit. Always consider the following:
-
SUN EXPOSURE
South-facing roofs with minimal shading generate the most electricity. -
ROOF SPACE & CONDITION
A roof in good condition helps avoid the added cost of uninstalling and reinstalling panels later when shingles need replacing making your solar installation more affordable in the long run. -
SEASONAL PERFORMANCE
Solar panels still produce electricity during Alberta winters. Cold weather can help panels work more efficiently but shorter days do mean less total power is produced. Bright winter sunshine still keeps your system working and a properly sized system will produce electricity all year. -
STAYING CONNECTED TO THE GRID
Most solar systems in Alberta are still connected to the power grid so you can still draw electricity from the grid when the sun isn't shining and production drops. -
DURABILITY & WARRANTY
Most solar panels come with performance warranties lasting 20 to 25 years. They don’t need much maintenance beyond occasional cleaning which makes them fairly easy to look after.
Not sure where to start? Our local Camrose team can help you review your electricity usage, discuss site considerations and connect you with trusted Alberta installers.
SOLAR COSTS AND INCENTIVES IN ALBERTA
UPFRONT COSTS
The cost of your solar install depends on the size of your system, the equipment you choose and the details of your property. Systems are measured in kilowatts and are usually sized around your past yearly electricity use. A small setup may cost a few thousand dollars while larger farm and business projects may require a bigger investment. Generally, a rough average in Alberta is about $2.50 to $3.00 per watt.
CURRENT INCENTIVES
The Canada Greener Homes Loan is no longer available but some municipalities and utility providers may still offer incentives. Check with your city or county and watch for any federal or provincial updates.
EXPORTING EXCESS POWER
When your panels produce more electricity than they use the extra power goes back to the grid and earns you credits. With the Solar Club® you can earn a a HI Rate during the high production summer months and switch to a LO Rate during low production winter months. This can lower or even eliminate your electricity costs through the year and help get the most out of your solar.
FASTER PAYBACK TIME
HOW DO I GET STARTED WITH SOLAR IN ALBERTA?
Adding solar to your Alberta home or farm can be exciting and getting started is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple four step path that takes you from learning about solar to producing your own energy.
With friendly, local support from Camrose Energy along the way.
LEARN AND PLAN
Start by learning how solar micro-generation works in Alberta including Net Metering. This lets you earn credits for the extra electricity your system sends back to the grid. Look over your past electricity bills to understand how much power you typically use and then find ways to make your home more energy efficient. This will help you choose the right system size and get the most from your solar.
FIND A TRUSTED SOLAR INSTALLER
As at least three trusted Alberta solar installers for quotes and book site assessments. Look for installers with the right certifications, good references, and experience. Compare the system design, equipment, estimated savings, payback time and warranty details before choosing an installer.
We can also connect you with our trusted installers and you can check out our guide to choosing a solar installer here.
CONTACT US AND SIGN UP FOR THE PRE-SOLAR RATETM
Once you’ve signed your installation contract, contact our Camrose Energy team to sign up for the Pre-Solar Rate™. This special discounted rate is for future Solar Club® members who are waiting for their systems to go live. It lets you start saving on electricity right away, so you don’t miss out while your panels are being installed and connected.
INSTALLATION & CONNECTION
Certified electricians install your panels, inverter, and wiring and perform a final inspection. Once approved your utility provider connects your system to the grid and activates net metering so you can begin generating power and earning credits.
JOIN THE SOLAR CLUB®
READY TO SEE HOW SOLAR CAN WORK FOR YOU?
Solar is a smart way to lower bills, protect against rising energy prices and invest in a cleaner Alberta future.
WHAT IS A SITE ID AND WHY DO I NEED IT FOR SIGN UP?
Your Site ID is a 13-digit number that uniquely identifies the electricity or natural gas service location for your Alberta home, farm, or business. You’ll need this number to switch to Camrose Energy so we can connect your new electricity, natural gas, or Solar Club™ plan to the correct meter.
If you can’t find the Site ID on an existing bill, simply enter your address and town in our easy lookup tool to retrieve it.
WHAT ALBERTA CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT CAMROSE ENERGY
Paul Lehmann Really quite good. A bit confusing on the billing as to what is credit, electricity, and gas on the bill. Tania Greenwald We have been with Camrose Energy for many years now. When we opened our store in 2021, there was no question that we would sign up our store utilities with Denise. Recently, I went in to talk about our rates. She explained them in a way that I could understand and we found a way to save some money once again! Her honesty when it comes to clients is admirable. If she cannot save you money by switching - she will tell you. If you are considering making the switch - take the time to give Camrose Energy a call! jason halberg I haven't had to talk to anyone there, everything is going smoothly. Maggie I recommend Camrose Energy to everyone I know. Very fantastic experience. Darlene Welda I've been with Camrose Energy for 3.5 years. I've never had any problems. They have reasonable rates and great customer service.😊 Anjah Howard Highly recommend. Great personal service. No phone trees and endless waiting on hold. Great rates. I'm super impressed with all the work they've done around my solar system as well. Don't let the name fool you, they'll help out anyone, not just people in Camrose. Danielle Sherber We’ve been with Camrose energy for 7 years and have had no issues. They’re so easy to get ahold of and to make changes to your account they explain any questions I’ve had and addressed them promptly. Incredibly friendly people. Best decision we’ve made We just recently joined camrose energy and the sign up process was amazing. Customer service went above and beyond to find the best solution for our home. On top of that they also support local business and I am so happy we have made this change Marci Kendall Camrose Energy is an incredible asset to our community. The work they do goes far beyond providing a service — they genuinely care about people and about Camrose as a whole. Their commitment to supporting local initiatives, showing up for the community, and making a positive impact is obvious in everything they do. It’s rare to find an organization that leads with integrity, generosity, and heart, and Camrose Energy consistently sets that standard. We are truly lucky to have them here. Gina Bergman Been a customer for over 10 years! Great local company! The best customer service, honest and reliable! Highly recommended, you won't be disappointed! Cheryl Good company to have heat and power with available all over alberta answers all questions and easy communication withGoogle rating score: 4.8 of 5, based on 104 reviews
