Solar PV Systems
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems use the sun’s energy to generate electricity. Flat PV panels, which can either be attached to rooftops or mounted on ground-mounted structures, absorb sunlight and convert that light energy into direct current (DC) power. This DC power is then fed through an inverter to create alternating current (AC) power, the type of current used in our homes.
BIPV Systems
Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are also increasingly popular. This is where the roofing shingles, building cladding, balcony guardrails, etc. have integrated solar PV technology.
Grid-Tied Systems
Today, the majority of solar PV systems being installed across Canada are grid-tied, meaning electricity flows to the home’s electrical panel where it is used to power the home. In most applications, surplus electricity is exported back to the electrical grid.
A typical grid-tied solar PV system is made up of the solar panels themselves, racking equipment to affix them to a roof or a ground mount, one or more inverters to convert the electricity into its more usable AC form, and any other piece of electrical equipment necessary to connect an approved system to the home and/or the grid.
Solar Plus Storage Systems
For those aiming to go off-grid, or homeowners wanting to ensure they will still have some power during a power outage, incorporating battery storage alongside a solar PV system is becoming an increasingly popular option.
Some jurisdictions are also moving forward with changes to Time of Use electricity billing that could make battery storage more financially attractive.
While battery storage is by no means a necessary component of a home solar PV system, solar panels themselves will not typically power the home during a power outage unless there is energy storage attached.
Net Metering
Net metering allows you to sell excess power generation beyond your consumption back to the utility company at the same rate per kWh that you buy from them, on a 1:1 basis.
Under a “net billing” system, you are compensated for surplus generation at a different per-kWh rate than what you pay for electricity you consume from the grid.
Program rules vary across jurisdictions. A qualified installer will be able to explain the options in your region.