Once a system is installed, inspected and connected, Albertans will receive a direct deposit in 10 to 15 business days
On June 21, the Alberta government officially launched the Energy Efficiency Alberta’s $36-million Residential and Commercial Solar Program, according to a press release.
Homeowners can receive up to 30 per cent off solar panel installation costs, to a maximum rebate of $10,000.
Businesses and non-profit organizations are eligible for up to 25 per cent of system costs, to a maximum rebate of $500,000.
“This solar program helps Albertans lower their utility bills and invest in their homes. Solar jobs are growing and the industry is putting Albertans back to work. Solar electricity puts the power in Albertans’ hands, making life more affordable while diversifying the economy and reducing carbon pollution,” said Shannon Phillips, minister of environment and parks and minister responsible for the climate change office.
Rebates are based on the size of the installation and calculated at $0.75 per watt.
Without incentives, Alberta’s solar uptake is projected to grow from two megawatts to just 30 megawatts over the next five years. With the new program, solar uptake is expected to quadruple each year – increasing to eight megawatts in 2017 and up to 140 megawatts by 2022, according to the Alberta government.
The Residential and Commercial Solar Program is expected to create roughly 50 megawatts of solar capacity and support the creation of 900 jobs in Alberta’s solar sector by 2019, according to the Alberta Government.
“Solar uptake has doubled since 2015 and will only continue to grow as costs come down. This rebate program has been a missing piece in making the push toward solar and renewable generation in Alberta,” said Monica Curtis, CEO, Energy Efficiency Alberta.
All applicants to the two-year program must own or have long-term rights to their property. Systems must also be designed and installed by qualified installers using CSA-approved panels and components or applicable certification to Canadian standards.
An average Alberta household uses 7,200 kWh per year, which would be generated by a 5.5 kW system in Calgary or a 6.3 kW system in Edmonton.
- A 5.5 kW system in Calgary would be eligible for a rebate of $4,100 on a solar PV system costing approximately $15,000-$17,000.
- A 6.3 kW system in Edmonton would be eligible for a rebate of $4,700 on a solar PV system costing approximately $17,000-$19,000.
Once a system is installed, inspected and connected, Albertans will receive a direct deposit in 10 to 15 business days. Albertans wanting to ensure their project is eligible can apply directly at Energy Efficiency Alberta for pre-approval. Systems installed prior to April 15, 2017 are not eligible for a rebate.
