Why Grid-Tied Solar Systems in Alberta Don’t Work During Power Outages
Most residential solar systems in Alberta are grid-tied, meaning they are connected directly to the utility power grid. This setup is popular because it allows homeowners to offset their electricity use and sell excess energy back to the grid through a process called net metering. However, one of the most common misconceptions I encounter when […]
Solar Clubs in Alberta: How Rate Switching Maximizes Your Solar Savings
If you have recently installed solar panels in Alberta or you are thinking about it, you may have come across the term solar club or rate switching. Many homeowners are curious: What is a solar club, and why does it matter for my solar system? The short answer: rate switching is a powerful way to […]
Power vs. Energy Explained: Reading Your Calgary Solar Quote
When you receive a solar quote, you’ll notice numbers like kW, kWh, kW DC, and kW AC. At first glance, these can feel like confusing technical jargon. Once you understand the basics, you’ll be able to read your quote with confidence and see exactly what your system will do for your Calgary home. Power (kW) […]
How Does Snow Affect Solar Production in Alberta?
Does Snow Affect Solar Panels in Calgary? What Alberta Homeowners Need to Know This is one of the most common questions I get from homeowners exploring solar with SkyFire Energy: “Do solar panels still work in the winter?” With our long, snowy winters here in Calgary, it’s a fair concern. But the truth is, the […]
Solar in Calgary: Let’s Talk About Hail
How Well Do Solar Panels Hold Up to Hail in Calgary? When it comes to going solar in Calgary, it’s hard to avoid the ice ball in the room—hail. It’s one of the first questions I get from homeowners, and for good reason. Calgary is one of the hailstorm capitals of Canada, and concerns about […]
Can Solar Systems Over 10 KW Apply for the Greener Homes Loan?
If you’re a Calgary homeowner researching solar energy, you’ve likely come across the Canada Greener Homes Loan — a government-backed interest-free loan of up to $40,000 designed to help Canadians upgrade their homes with energy-efficient solutions like solar panels. But if your proposed solar PV system is larger than 10 kW, you may have run […]