Estimate Your Solar Panel installation investment with Our Calculator
SOLAR CALCULATOR
The Home Renovation Savings solar rebate program helps Ontario homeowners save on rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems without requiring a home energy assessment. Eligible homeowners can receive up to $5,000 in rebates for solar panels and up to $5,000 for battery storage, helping reduce electricity costs, increase energy independence, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The program supports clean energy upgrades designed for home energy use, with straightforward eligibility requirements and a simple application process that includes contractor approval, installation, and rebate submission.
The Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program (BHOLP) is a City of Ottawa loan program for home energy efficiency retrofits. It aims to support local residents to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
This program offer slow-interest, 20-year loans of up to $125,000 (or 10 percent of the current value assessment of the home, whichever is less) to cover the cost of home energy improvements.
While the initial investment for solar energy storage is higher, the long-term benefits – both financial and environmental – are substantial. Solar energy is a sustainable and efficient solution for powering our homes.
Parameter | Fossil Fuel Standby Generator | Solar-Based Energy Storage System |
|---|---|---|
Initial Cost
| Typically from $15,000 to $20,000. They rely on propane or other fossil fuels to provide backup power during outages.
| Typically from $25000-$35000. However, this investment pays off over time due to energy savings. Over the 25 – 30 year period, these systems save approximately twice the original investment amount in energy savings.
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25-Year Return
| There’s no return on investment (ROI) over 25 years. These generators only operate during power outages, which occur infrequently (less than 0.2% of the time annually).
| Here’s where the solar system shines. Over 25 years, it can save you a substantial amount—$50,000 to $80,000—in energy costs. It works tirelessly, harnessing sunlight every day. |
Running Time and Cost During Long-Term Outage
| During extended outages, the running cost includes fuel expenses (approximately $0.80 per cubic meter of propane). These costs add up.
| Solar energy is free! No fuel costs during outages. The stored energy from sunlight keeps your home powered without ongoing expenses. |
Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance, including weekly and monthly checks. Oil changes and filter replacements are necessary. | Virtually maintenance-free. No oil changes or filter swaps. Just let the sun do its job.
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Annual Return on Investment | None. It’s a static investment. | Expect continuous savings — up to 8% to 10% of the original system cost — in annual energy savings. You can basically offset a large portion of your electricity cost (typically 70% to 90% of your total electricity costs annually).
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Life Expectancy | Typically lasts 15 years if properly maintained. | A longer lifespan—30 years or more—ensures sustained benefits. Your solar panels might work even much longer, 40 or even 50 years while producing a significant amount of their original rated power, depending on the site conditions. |
Noise Level | High to very high noise level during use. | Low to none — since it relies on stored energy. |
Smart Monitoring and Reporting | Limited capabilities in this area | Advanced monitoring and control features enhance efficiency.
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Scalability | Not easily scalable | Flexible scalability and expandability. Add more panels or batteries as needed.
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