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Author: Alex Tyndale

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Why 2025 Is the Best Year to Go Solar in Calgary

Considering solar going solar in Calgary? You’re not alone—more homeowners than ever are making the switch to clean, renewable energy. Solar YYC proudly serves Calgary and area with top-tier solar installations. We’ve been part of the local community since 2016 and currently employ over 70 Calgarians. What makes us different? Why Calgary Is a Great City for Solar Calgary is one of Canada’s sunniest cities, with over 2,300 hours of sunlight each year. This makes it an ideal location for residential solar systems to produce reliable, year-round electricity. While we do get the occasional heavy snow, temporarily blocking production – we get Chinooks! As well, solar in Calgary, and Alberta, is really about the 16 hour days in the summer months. What Going Solar in Calgary Costs (2025) Solar YYC is very competitively priced with an average of just $2.10 per watt before GST. We’ve found the average Calgarian home needs an 8 kW system, so you’re looking at roughly $16,800+GST. We include: Add-ons like batteries, EV chargers, critter guard, snow guard, panel upgrades and home energy monitors can be incorporated as needed. Zero-Interest Financing Through the Greener Homes Loan One of the best parts about going solar in 2025 is access to the Canada Greener Homes Loan. This federal program provides up to $40,000 in interest-free financing, repayable over 10 years. It’s a great way to spread out your investment without the burden of high-interest loans. We’ll help you: Choosing a Solar Installer You Can Trust With more solar companies entering the Calgary market, it’s important to choose a provider with experience, transparency, and accountability. At Solar YYC: We focus on, education—not pressure, so you can make a confident, informed decision. We encourage all of our prospective clients to get multiple quotes. What the Installation Process Looks Like We manage every step of your install to make it as smooth and professional as possible: You’ll also receive access to real-time monitoring tools to track your solar production. Why Homeowners are Going Solar in Calgary Solar systems typically reduce monthly power bills by 50–90%, with payback periods of 8–12 years. And with the Canada Greener Homes Loan this means that most residential installations are cash-flow positive, day one, using government money, not yours! Maximize Your Returns With Solar Clubs Alberta’s deregulated electricity market allows solar homeowners to join what’s known as a solar club. These plans pay premium rates—often $0.25 to $0.30 per kWh—for exported electricity during times of excess generation. Solar clubs are ideal if your system is oversized or you generate more than you consume in summer. Solar YYC will provide guidance on which provider is best and how to sign up.  Sell Your Solar Credits Through RECs Another way to earn more from your system is through Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). These environmental attributes can be sold to organizations looking to lower their carbon footprint—often through programs like Solar Offset. It’s a simple way to earn passive income from your clean energy. Applications are simple and quick and we’ll help you. Go Solar in Calgary! If you’re looking for a proven and reliable Calgary solar company, Solar YYC is here to help. We offer: 🔗 Fill out our lead intake form today and discover what solar can do for your home

CategoriesUncategorized

Will You Need a Main Panel Upgrade to go Solar? Here’s how to tell

If you’re considering a solar panel installation in Calgary, Edmonton, or anywhere in Alberta, your installer might mention the need for a Main Panel Upgrade for Solar — also known as a main panel swap. But what does that actually mean, and why is it sometimes required for larger solar arrays? At Solar YYC, one of the most common questions we hear is:“Why do I need to change my electrical panel just to add solar?” The answer comes down to something called bus bar capacity — a technical but important factor in safely installing your solar energy system. What Is a Main Electrical Panel? Your main panel (also called the electrical service panel or breaker box) is the central hub where power enters your home from the grid. It distributes electricity to your lights, appliances, and outlets through individual breakers. Panels have two important ratings:– Service rating (e.g., 100A, 125A, 200A). Service rating is the capacity of the wire coming to your home from the local grid. This is generally difficult, and expensive, to upgrade.– Bus bar capacity — the metal strips inside the panel that carry electrical current When you install solar, you’re adding another source of electricity to this panel — and the panel must be rated to safely handle both the grid input and the solar input. What’s a Bus Bar and Why Does It Matter? The Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) Rule 64-112 outlines how renewable energy systems, such as solar, integrate into both new and existing electrical panels. The panel bus bar must be able to handle the combined current of the main breaker amperage (incoming from the grid) and the solar back-feed breaker amperage (incoming from solar system). Definition time! Safety Margin is the amount of additional capacity or strength built into a system beyond its expected or design load to ensure safe and reliable operation under unforeseen conditions or overloads For residential systems we are allowed to add a 25% safety margin for example: A main panel with 100A main breaker and a 125A bus bar would allow us to install 56.25A worth of solar PV breakers.  125A bus x 125% = 156.25A – 100A main breaker = 56.25A.  In 2025, and considering Solar YYC’s current offerings, this would equate to between 11.7kW and 13kW DC of solar. Or, 26 panels. For commercial systems we are only allowed a 20% safety margin: A main panel with 200A main breaker and a 200A bus bar would allow us to install up to 40A worth of solar breakers. 200A bus bar x 120% = 240A – 200A main breaker = 40A If the bus bar above is upgraded to 225A: 225A bus bar x 120% = 270A – 200A main breaker =70A Why Main Panel Upgrades for Solar Are Often Needed In Alberta, most homes were built with 100A panels with 125A bus bars, which worked fine when solar wasn’t common. But solar is becoming more powerful and cost-effective — and homeowners are aiming for full offset or near net-zero energy usage. IMPORTANT NOTE When solar companies talk about upgrading your panel it’s almost never the service size but rather just the busbar. A typical upgrade looks like this: 125A bus x 125% = 156.25A – 100A main breaker = 56.25A of room for solar. Or, 26 panels.  Upgrading the busbar to 225A: 225A bus x 125% = 281.25A – 100A main breaker = 181.25A of room for solar. Or, 50 panels.  By upgrading the bus we have doubled the capacity for solar. Do I Always Need a Main Panel Upgrade for Solar? Not necessarily. If your energy needs are modest, and your existing panel has space and bus bar room, we can often install solar without changes. But if you’re planning a larger system, a panel swap is usually the only option. At Solar YYC, we assess this for every project usually with a thorough site visit (free of charge!). Then we include upgrade recommendations in our quotes — with clear pricing. We also handle all permitting and coordination with the city and utility, whether you’re in Calgary, Edmonton, or elsewhere in Alberta. What does it cost and how long does it take? Typical main panel swaps cost $2500-3500 in Alberta in 2025. Although if there is a complicated/unique electrical setup it can cost more. It takes a day, generally, to swap out the main panel. The power to building (in a residential setting) generally needs to be turned off for this work. Solar YYC will provide back up power to essential loads during that time. Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It? A main panel upgrade for solar might sound like a hassle, but it’s a one-time investment that opens the door to:– Greatly increase capacity for solar systems (greater energy savings)– A modern, code-compliant electrical setup For many Alberta homeowners, it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of solar energy.Need help figuring out if your panel is solar-ready?Contact Solar YYC for a free solar assessment. We’ll check your panel, calculate your home’s needs, and give you honest advice — with or without a main panel swap.

CategoriesUncategorized

Protect Your Solar Panels: Why Alberta Homes Need Critter Guards

When investing in solar panels for your home in Calgary, Edmonton, or anywhere in Alberta, one detail that often gets overlooked is critter protection. You may have heard terms like solar critter guard, rodent guard, or pigeon guard — but what exactly are they, and are they worth it? At Solar YYC, we believe in setting up solar systems that last — and that means protecting them from the most unexpected threats: animals. What Is a Solar Critter Guard? A solar critter guard (also called a rodent guard or pigeon guard) is a durable wire mesh that is installed around the edges of your rooftop solar array. Its main job is to keep out unwanted guests — usually birds and rodents — that try to nest underneath your panels. Without this guard, animals like pigeons, squirrels, and even magpies can squeeze under the panels and cause serious problems. These aren’t just annoyances — they can cause real, costly damage. Common Issues Without a Critter Guard – Chewed wiring – Rodents can gnaw on solar panel wiring, leading to power disruptions or full system outages. – Roof damage – Nesting animals displace shingles, clog eavestroughs, and create long-term water damage. – Pigeon waste buildup – Pigeon droppings are not only unsightly but highly corrosive and unsanitary. – Noise and nuisance – Nesting birds can create ongoing noise problems and mess around the property. All of these issues can drastically shorten the lifespan of your solar system or even void manufacturer warranties. Why We Recommend Critter Guards in Alberta In Southern and Central Alberta, the climate and architecture provide ideal nesting opportunities for pigeons and squirrels. Urban areas like Calgary and Edmonton see especially high bird activity, while rural properties often deal with rodents climbing up onto rooftops. That’s why we recommend a solar critter guard for nearly every rooftop solar installation. It’s a low-cost addition that provides long-term peace of mind. At Solar YYC, we install rodent guards on many new residential systems by default, and we offer retrofit pigeon guard installation for existing solar arrays as well. It doesn’t matter who installed your solar panels — we’re happy to add critter guard protection to any system, even if it wasn’t installed by us. We regularly work on third-party systems, including homes built by Jayman BUILT and Mattamy Homes, where solar panels came standard. Whether your system is brand new or several years old, we can help protect it from animal damage. Cost of Installing a Solar Critter Guard The cost of a rodent guard for solar panels depends on your system size and roof layout, but most homeowners in Calgary and Edmonton can expect: – Typical Price Range: $500-$1,500 – Retrofit Installation: Slightly higher due to access and setup time – New System Install: Often included or discounted when installing solar with Solar YYC Compared to the potential cost of repairs — or replacing damaged solar panels — a critter guard is an easy decision. Can I Add One to My Existing Solar System? Absolutely. If your system wasn’t originally protected with a pigeon guard, it’s not too late. Our team can safely install a guard without disturbing your current setup. Most retrofits are completed in just a few hours. We serve all of Calgary, Edmonton, and surrounding Alberta communities. Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It? For most Alberta homeowners, yes. A solar critter guard is one of the most affordable ways to protect your solar investment. Whether it’s birds nesting under your panels in Edmonton or squirrels chewing wires in Calgary, this simple mesh can prevent thousands of dollars in potential damage.Interested in protecting your solar system? Contact Solar YYC today for a free quote on pigeon guard or rodent guard installation in Calgary, Edmonton, or anywhere in Alberta — no matter who installed your panels.

CategoriesSolar Incentives

Going Solar in Edmonton? 2025 Costs, Incentives & What You Need to Know

If you’re a homeowner that’s considering installing solar panels in Edmonton or the surrounding area, you’re in the right place—yes, Solar YYC proudly serves the Edmonton area with high-quality, competitively priced solar solutions. We’re not just another installer—we offer: – In-house indentured and trained electricians (no subcontractors for residential installs)– Exceptionally competitive pricing– 10-year standard workmanship warranty, with the option to extend to 25 years– Outstanding service before and after your install (ask for referrals or check our Google reviews!) With strong sun exposure, financing support through the Greener Homes Loan, and trusted local expertise, 2025 is the ideal year to take advantage of solar energy in Edmonton. Why Edmonton Is Ideal for Solar Energy Contrary to popular belief, Edmonton is one of the best Canadian cities for solar production. On average, the region receives over 2,300 hours of sunlight annually. That’s more than enough to generate significant energy year-round—even during snowy winter months. Modern solar panels are highly efficient in colder climates, often performing better in cool conditions than in heat. With proper panel placement and quality installation, snow buildup is a non-issue for most systems. Solar Panel Costs in Edmonton (2025) At Solar YYC, our pricing is among the most competitive in Alberta. Our residential solar systems average $2.15 per watt, well below industry averages. That means a typical 8 kW system costs approximately $17,200 before any financing or rebates. Costs vary slightly depending on:- Smaller systems (~4-6 kW range) cost more considering the fixed costs.– Roof type and pitch– Equipment selected (e.g., inverters, panels, racking)– Whether you choose to include battery storage or EV charger integration All pricing includes professional in-house installation—no subcontractors—and comes with our industry-leading warranty and service. Greener Homes Loan: Affordable Solar Financing for Edmonton Homeowners The Canada Greener Homes Loan is a major federal initiative designed to make solar more accessible to homeowners. It offers: – Up to $40,000 in interest-free financing– Repayment terms of 10 years– Available for new solar installations on eligible primary residences The loan is stackable with other grants or rebates, and can be used to cover your Solar YYC system. To apply, homeowners must complete an energy audit and submit a qualifying installation quote. Our team is happy to walk you through the entire loan process and ensure your project meets the criteria. How to Choose a Solar Installer in Edmonton Not all solar installers in Edmonton are created equal. To protect your investment and maximize system performance, look for companies that offer: – Licensed and trained electricians (not subcontractors)– Clear warranty terms (at least 10 years on workmanship)– Transparent, fair pricing– Proven local experience and testimonials At Solar YYC, we believe in education over pressure. Our team walks you through every step—design, permitting, installation, and post-install support—so you’re never left guessing. For more guidance on choosing the right company for solar panels in Edmonton, read our full article here: https://solaryyc.ca/6-red-flags-to-watch-out-for-when-choosing-a-solar-company/ What to Expect From a Solar Panel Installation A full residential install typically includes: 1. Site Assessment & Energy Audit2. Custom Design & Quoting3. Permitting & Micro Gen Applications4. Professional Installation (1–2 days)5. Final Inspection & Connection to the Grid Our systems require little to no maintenance and include monitoring apps so you can track your savings in real-time. The Long-Term Value of Installing Solar Panels in Edmonton Homeowners can expect to reduce electricity bills by 50–90%, depending on system size and energy usage. Most systems pay for themselves in 8–12 years, and continue to deliver savings for 25+ years. Beyond energy savings, solar adds value to your home, reduces environmental impact, and provides insulation from rising utility rates. Ready to Get Started? If you’re searching for trusted Edmonton solar companies, Solar YYC is ready to help. Customers see the benefits as soon as they install solar panels in Edmonton! We offer free consultations, tailored system designs, and expert support at every step of the process. Click here to fill out our lead intake form and get started today: https://solaryyc.ca/contact-us/

CategoriesSolar Incentives

2025 Solar Panels Cost in Edmonton: What to Expect & How to Save

Yes—Solar YYC proudly installs solar panels in Edmonton and surrounding communities. And thanks to abundant sunshine and modern federal financing, more homeowners than ever are making the switch to clean, affordable energy. Curious to learn how much solar panels cost in Edmonton? Average Cost of Solar in Edmonton At Solar YYC, we offer residential solar systems with an average price of around $2.15/watt. That means an average 8 kW system costs about $17,200+GST, installed. Compared to many other Edmonton solar companies, this is among the most competitive pricing available—without sacrificing on quality, warranty, or service. Your final price depends on:– Roof shape and material– System size (based on energy usage)– Optional add-ons like batteries, EV chargers, critter guard, snow guard, energy monitors and/or panel upgrades We never use subcontractors for installations. All our systems are installed by trained, indentured electricians, backed by a 10-year workmanship warranty (extendable to 25 years). Side note: if you received a quote that well exceeds $2.15/watt before GST it is best to get multiple quotes. We see pricing in the $3/watt range and that is almost always way too much to pay. This generally comes from the door to door solar salespeople.  Save your family thousands of dollars by taking your time, get multiple quotes and don’t allow yourself to be pressured!  Financing with the Greener Homes Loan The Canada Greener Homes Loan provides up to $40,000 in interest-free financing for homeowners upgrading to solar. This makes it possible to go solar with no large upfront payment—just a manageable monthly repayment over 10 years. We help you:– Complete your energy audit (we provide the necessaries!)– Navigate the application (it’s easy, we’ll show you)– Ensure your system qualifies (we’ve done this before!) Edmonton Solar ROI Most homeowners cut their power bills by 50–90% and see full payback in 8–12 years. After that, it’s 100% savings. Plus, your property value may increase—and you’re protected from rising electricity rates for decades. Additional Ways to Earn Solar Clubs In Alberta, homeowners who generate more electricity than they consume (for a month) can benefit from programs known as solar clubs. These are specialized electricity rate plans offered by competitive energy retailers that pay premium rates—often between $0.25 and $0.30 per kWh—for exported solar energy. By joining a solar club, you can increase the value of your surplus electricity, especially during sunny months.  Selling Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) through Solar Offsets If you’re interested in turning your solar production into a broader environmental impact—or even a revenue stream—selling Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) may be an option. Platforms like Solar Offset allow Alberta solar homeowners to sell the environmental attributes of their solar production to companies looking to offset their carbon footprint. Our team at Solar YYC can walk you through the REC enrollment process. It sounds complicated, but it’s not and we’ll show you how to do it.  Get a Free Quote Today Solar YYC is ready to help you design the right system at the right price, with no-pressure, honest service and a long list of satisfied customers to prove it. Click here to fill out our quick intake form to get started today: https://solaryyc.ca/alberta-residential/

CategoriesCompany Insights

At Solar YYC, Our Design Team Is the Dream Team.

Here at Solar YYC, we are forever grateful for the PV (photo voltaic) designers; they are the backbone of every project we do; without them, we wouldn’t be able to produce quality work.  Solar YYC included the design team in 2021; before then, the sales team had to split their focus between sales and design. This made their job incredibly difficult as the diverted focus hurt their ability to do what they’re best at. Thus, the idea of an independent design team was born.The design team plays a quiet but integral role in shaping the identity and success of our solar projects. They are responsible for creating the first impression of an ideal array, which can ultimately influence how users perceive and interact with the product. See more of the team’s designs here. Beyond aesthetics, the design team clarifies the user journey, ensuring that each interaction is seamless and intuitive. Even as the project journey ends, the design team is still hard at work in the form of client support and answering technical questions about the system. They collaborate closely with product managers, sales, and operations personnel to translate complex ideas and requirements into simple, practical solutions that serve business goals and user needs. Their ability to solve problems creatively and think outside the box helps them navigate challenges and identify opportunities for improvement. By maintaining a positive attitude when approaching a difficult situation, the design team fosters brand loyalty, boosts efficiency, and drives customer satisfaction. In essence, they are not just creators of beauty but problem solvers and strategic thinkers who ensure that a product stands out for all the right reasons. Being a designer is truly a difficult job. For a designer, every day is a new challenge since every house has its unique charm. The most challenging project the designers have worked on is a house designed by an artist. Although the house was beautiful, it was complicated as the roofs had many layers and a complex layout.  In the day-to-day life of a designer, they must find the balance between client requests and setting realistic expectations. Each member of the technical design team stated time management is the one thing all designers must master. The race starts when the sales give them the go-ahead to begin the design process. The difference between making a sale and falling short depends on the preliminary design’s speed. One of our core beliefs is that quality comes from due diligence. How do we ensure that our designs are completed swiftly while still maintaining our duty to quality? Well, the best designers keep their secrets close. But they check their work not once, not twice, but three times. Additionally, they rely on each other for suggestions and support. As they put it, “The machine that is the design team only works when everybody can rely on each other when needed.” Solar YYC couldn’t function without the installers who bring our designs to life. As a token of our appreciation, the design team always strives to make the installers’ jobs easier by keeping their safety in mind. One reason why safety is such a priority is that all of our designers have hands-on experience with installing and working on rooftops. This firsthand knowledge makes safety a critical consideration in every design. One thing Solar YYC does is include a setback on every roof. A setback is the distance between the edge of a roof and obstacles; this added precaution ensures our installers are truly safe when implementing our designs. We take pride in that here at SolarYYC, our customers choose us after making an informed decision. They select us because of our reputation for an extremely high level of detail, commitment to customer satisfaction, and swift yet immaculate execution of PV designs. All of these qualities rest on the shoulders of our design team. So, when asking yourself what makes SolarYYC truly stand out, you can be confident that one of the key reasons is the strength of our designers and their dedication to the small details essential in bringing each client’s ideal array to life. So when your project begins, and the sales team assigns you a designer, you can rest assured that our quality exceeds expectations. Ready to explore your solar options? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s build a system that works for you.

CategoriesTips & Tricks

Confidently Choose the Best Solar Installer for Your Home

Installing solar panels on your roof is an exciting investment, especially when you expect to reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills dramatically! But with growing demand comes an increase in aggressive sales tactics and misinformation.  We always advise our clients to do your due diligence; get at least three quotes from different companies, take the time to check AND read their reviews. If you’re considering solar, here are some key red flags to watch for when talking to companies or door-to-door representatives. 1. High-Pressure Sales Tactics. “Sign Now or Miss Out” If someone is at your door urging you to sign a contract right now or suggesting you’ll miss out if you “don’t act today,” take a step back. Government incentives and financing programs have deadlines, but they don’t disappear overnight. Solar energy is a long-term investment that deserves careful consideration. If a rep tells you the loan or grant will vanish unless you sign today, they’re likely using scare tactics. You should never feel pressured to make a rushed financial decision, especially one tied to a 25 to 30-year asset like a solar system. A trustworthy company will give you time and space to make the right decision for your home and budget. 2. They offer to sign you up for a Loan Be cautious if a solar company offers internal financing or tries to push you into a loan of their own. Reputable solar providers will guide you through financing options—but they won’t offer to “get the application started for you” or sign you up on the spot. That’s not their role. You, the homeowner, should initiate and complete the loan process, not the sales rep. If someone is eager to fill out an application on your behalf, it’s a red flag. Personal financial information should not be shared with a third party. 3. They Promise Over 100% Offset Some solar companies will promise systems that generate over 100% of your energy usage, making it sound like you’ll be “off the grid” or earning major credits. The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) limits system sizes based on your past electricity use to protect the grid and ensure fair access for everyone. At Solar YYC, we never overpromise an offset to win a sale. While some companies may show you flashy numbers, we prioritize accuracy—our designs are 99.75% precise, a stat we’ve proudly maintained since 2016. Even if a design with more than 100% offset gets approved, the actual usable output is often much lower due to inverter limitations—a concept called “clipping.” It may look impressive on paper, but you won’t get the extra benefit you’re being sold. In rare cases, a higher offset may be approved if you add a new appliance, like an EV charger or electric heat pump. However, you must provide documentation like proof of purchase or vehicle registration. Without those, overpromising leads to rejected permits, delays, and disappointed homeowners.  4. Don’t Fall for False Limits on Microgeneration Permits Some companies claim a hard cap on microgeneration permits—for example, saying only 25,000 are allowed in your area and that 22,000 have already been taken. This isn’t true. Alberta has no set cap on the number of microgenerators connecting to the grid. Spreading this misinformation creates a false sense of urgency and pressures homeowners into rushing a decision. At Solar YYC, we believe in honest, transparent communication, not scare tactics. 5. No Clear or Committed Installation Date Vague timelines are a major red flag. A professional solar provider should be able to give you a realistic estimate for installation based on permitting requirements, crew availability, and current scheduling. If they can’t—or won’t—commit to a rough timeframe before you sign, that’s cause for concern. Without that commitment, you could be left waiting for weeks or even months with no clear sense of when your system will be installed. Therefore always ensure you get a clear timeline in writing before proceeding with any agreement 6. They claim “A bigger system is Better.” Some companies will try to sell you the biggest system possible, claiming that more panels will lead to more savings. However, oversized systems can be less efficient, especially if the system isn’t designed properly and the inverter can’t handle the extra power. *AC size is often more important because it reflects your real-world output. You don’t use *DC power directly, only the AC power that runs your home. Thus if your inverter is too small, it will “clip” any extra energy your panels produce, limiting the amount of power you can actually use. Think of it this way: your solar panels are a big jug (DC size), and your inverter is the faucet (AC size). No matter how full the jug is, only so much water (electricity) can come out at a time through the faucet. That’s why AC size gives you a clearer picture of how much solar energy you can actually use, and why bigger isn’t always better. *DC size (Direct Current) is the total power your solar panels can produce under ideal sunlight—it’s like the maximum potential of your system.  *AC size (Alternating Current) is the amount of usable electricity your system can actually deliver to your home or the grid after the inverter converts DC to AC (the type of power your appliances use). Bottom Line: You Deserve to Be Informed and Empowered In conclusion, take your time, ask questions, and do your research. Solar can be life-changing, but only when it’s done right. A quality solar consultant will educate you, not pressure you. They’ll design a system that’s built to suit your roof and not their bottom line. Remember, solar is a 30-year investment. There’s no reason to rush the process. At Solar YYC, our clients should feel 100% confident and informed about their installation. That’s why we guarantee total honesty and integrity every step of the way. If you want to learn more about solar, our team will walk you through your options honestly and transparently—no pressure, no gimmicks! 

CategoriesCompany Insights

Celebrating Earth Day: Solar Makes a Big Impact!

Earth Day is the one day a year everyone comes together to celebrate the beautiful planet we call home. It is a day to appreciate, reflect and give back to the environment for everything it has and continues to give to us.  At Solar YYC, we actively try to increase our environmental footprint. Since 2016 we have been powering more Alberta homes and businesses with clean, renewable energy from the sun. Going solar is not just about the economic benefits but its long-term impact on our environment. We all know renewable energy is very eco-friendly, but how does it benefit the environment? Solar panels don’t emit any greenhouse gases or produce air pollution during operation. They work by absorbing sunlight and converting it into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The sun is an excellent energy source as it is inexhaustible! Solar also shines when it comes to water conservation. In fact, the average household powered by solar can save up to 61,000 litres of water in one year.  Like all energy sources, solar does have an environmental impact during manufacturing and installation. However, compared to other sources, it’s by far one of the cleanest. One helpful measure is the energy payback time—the time it takes for a system to generate the same amount of energy that went into making it. For solar, that’s typically under 4 years. Customer Highlight: One of our customers, Jeremy McIvor, shared his inspiring commitment to sustainability with us. His long-term goal? To transform his home into a Net-Zero Energy Retrofit—meaning it will produce as much energy as it uses over the course of a year. Solar power is a key part of his plan, helping him dramatically cut utility bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a big step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.  Additionally, he took advantage of the Greener Homes Loan and has seen an impressive return on investment! The government announced an extension with an added $600 million in funding. Take advantage while it lasts. Watch his full testimonial video below:  The Local Impact of Solar in Southern Alberta Solar YYC has offset 9 million kWh of electricity in the past year. This means our solar community has helped offset over 6,345 tons of CO₂, and that’s equivalent to: Every install matters. Every system counts. And every homeowner who chooses solar is part of this progress. How You Can Take Action This Earth Day If you want to join the Earth movement, there are a ton of ways you can get involved! If you are a past Solar YYC customer, you can spread the word about solar energy to your neighbours, family and friends. The more people that make the switch, the higher the impact on our planet (and don’t forget about the $400 referral bonus with Solar YYC). You can make many small changes in your household and everyday life to help the environment.  Local events in Calgary: April 19: Earth Day Clean-Up at Prince’s Island Park April 26: Earth Day Clean-Up in Kincora Community Let’s Make Every Day Earth Day—Starting With Your Roof Ready to make the switch? Sign the form on our website and one of our sales consultants will be in touch shortly. Or better yet, call us directly at 587-296-7375 for immediate help. Sources (20, February 20). What are the safest and cleanest sources of energy? Ourworldindata. https://ourworldindata.org/safest-sources-of-energy (2024, January 19). Solar explained. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION. https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/solar/solar-energy-and-the-environment.php (2024, March 31). Why are solar panels good for the environment? MET Group Countries. https://group.met.com/en/media/energy-insight/why-are-solar-panels-good-for-the-environment

CategoriesUncategorized

Love Solar? Share the Sunshine & Get Rewarded!

At Solar YYC, we’re more than just a solar company—we’re building a community that supports each other. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our Solar Referral Program—a simple way for you to help your friends and family go solar while earning a $400 reward for yourself! Why Refer? Spread Savings in Our Community With economic uncertainty, solar can help families and neighbours save on energy costs and gain financial stability. Lower electricity bills and protection from rising energy rates make solar an investment that keeps on giving. Earn Extra Cash You can refer as many people as you like, so the rewards keep adding up! When you help someone make a significant investment, you get rewarded for it. Whether you use your referral bonuses for a special treat, home improvement, or savings, the extra cash is always a welcome bonus. Grow Our Solar Family Each referral means one more home benefiting from clean, renewable energy. By spreading the word, you help build a network of solar-powered homes in your community, contributing to a more sustainable future. How It Works Referring someone is easy! Here’s how you can start earning rewards: No Limits! The best part? There’s no limit to how many people you can refer! The more people you help switch to solar, the more rewards you earn. Case Study: A Street Powered by Solar Our referral program isn’t just theory—it’s already benefiting our customers! Here’s an example of how some of our clients took full advantage of it: On one street alone, seven homes have gone solar with Solar YYC. Five of these homes are side by side, with two more further down the same street. This shows how one person’s decision to go solar can inspire an entire neighbourhood to make the switch. Solar isn’t just an individual investment; it’s a community movement toward energy independence. Even more impressive, we currently have a referral chain that has extended to 10 people! One happy customer shared their experience with a friend, who then passed it along to another, creating a ripple effect of savings. Here is a photo of two neighbours that went solar together! Start Referring Today! Know someone who’s interested in solar? Send them our way and start earning your rewards. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us—we’d love to hear from you! Why Choose Solar YYC? At Solar YYC, we take pride in being Calgary’s trusted solar provider, with over 370 Google reviews and a 5-star rating. As a locally owned and operated business, we are committed to transparency and customer satisfaction from day one. We believe in clear communication and ensuring that every question, big or small, is answered with patience and care. Plus, with our 25-year installation warranty, you can know that your investment is protected in the long run. Don’t just take our word for it—check out our reviews and see why so many homeowners trust us with their solar journey. Let’s power a brighter future together. Ready to explore your solar options? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s build a system that works for you.

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Navigating Your Solar Installation: What You Need to Know

The Solar Panel Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide The solar panel installation process is quite complex, involving many steps before placing the panels on the roof. The process begins months earlier, with drone visits on your property. Usually, the installation takes place 6 months after the contract has been signed. That is why you must begin your consultation in the winter if you want your solar panels installed in the spring or summer.  Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what happens during a typical solar panel installation. 1. Arrival and Site Assessment The installation crew arrives on-site and begins with a job hazard assessment. This ensures the worksite is safe and potential risks are identified before the team starts work. They also take time to introduce themselves to the homeowner and conduct a walk-around inspection of the site to confirm everything is in order. 2. Roof Preparation and Layout Once the initial assessment is complete, the roof crew accesses the roof. They start by: Once the rails are properly installed and levelled, the inverters are mounted in their designated locations. 3. Electrical Work: Running the Wiring While the roof crew works on panel placement, the electricians will work on powering all the inverters: This step ensures that the energy collected by the solar panels can be safely transmitted to the home’s electrical system.  4. Panel Installation With the wiring in place, the team can now begin installing the solar panels: This step can be straightforward on simple roof layouts but becomes challenging when panels need to be placed on multiple arrays on roof faces or garage structures. 5. System Commissioning and Testing Once all panels are in place, the system is nearly ready to generate electricity. Before leaving, the crew performs the final steps: 6. Final Steps and Cleanup With the system now operational, the installation crew cleans up the worksite, removes ladders, and leaves the area tidy. Before leaving, they inform the homeowner about the upcoming system inspection and how to monitor their system using the app. How Long Does It Take? The duration of the installation depends on the project’s complexity (e.g., the number of arrays and the roof’s steepness). Challenges and Considerations Installing solar panels is a physically demanding job. Each panel weighs between 50 and 70 pounds, and carrying them up ladders onto a sloped roof requires strength and endurance. Weather conditions also play a role. Cold temperatures can make suction cups less effective for lifting panels, and high winds present challenges when securing equipment. Conclusion A solar installation is a carefully coordinated process that combines safety, technical skill, and teamwork. Every step, from the initial assessment to system activation, is crucial in ensuring a reliable and efficient solar energy system for the homeowner. If you’re considering switching to solar, understanding the installation process can help you appreciate the level of expertise that goes into making your system function seamlessly! Ready to explore your solar options? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s build a system that works for you.

Solar

Real Estate & Construction Group