By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Province launches solar rebates – but, can average Albertan afford installation?

Jun 21, 2017 | 1:32 PM

EDMONTON –  The province chose the first day of summer to shine a light on its new solar panel rebate program. 

Wednesday’s announcement outlined a plan to offer homeowners 30 per cent off solar panel installation costs to a maximum of $10,000. Businesses and non-profit organizations are eligible for up to 25 per cent of costs to a maximum rebate of $500,000.

Rebates are based on the size of the installation and calculated at $0.75 per watts.

Energy Efficiency Alberta’s two-year, $36-million Residential and Commercial Solar Program is expected to generate about 50 megawatts of solar capacity, while creating 900 jobs in Alberta’s solar sector by 2019.  Solar uptake is predicted to quadruple each year – increasing to eight megawatts in 2017 and up to 140 megawatts by 2022.

Without the incentive, the province estimates solar uptake will grow from two megawatts to 30 megawatts over the next five years. 

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A news release from the province indicates that applicants 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.

Those who take part in the program, will receive a cost rebate via direct deposit within 10 to 15 business days, after the system is installed, inspected and connected.

The province’s figures indicate an average Alberta household uses 7,200 kWh per year, which would be generated by a 5.5 kW system in Calgary (for a system costing between $15,000 and $17,000) or a 6.3 kW system in Edmonton (where the system would cost between $17,000 and $19,000).

Those wanting to find out if their project is eligible, should apply directly at Energy Efficiency Alberta for pre-approval. Systems installed prior to April 15, 2017 are not eligible for a rebate.