Best Solar Panel Shops In New Brunswick

If you're looking to buy solar panels in New Brunswick, you'll be pleased to know that the province is ranked among the best in Canada for installing solar power systems, with excellent financing options and net metering policies. New Brunswick has the sixth-highest potential for solar energy production in the country, and its average solar system can generate 1142kWh of electricity per kW of solar panels annually.

There are several companies in New Brunswick that can help you with your solar needs, including Sunly, Solar X, and Epic Energy Solutions. These companies offer a range of services, from installation to maintenance, and can guide you through the process of switching to solar power.

When considering solar panels, it's important to assess your solar potential and choose a reliable installer. You should also explore the various financing options available, such as the Greener Homes Loan, which offers interest-free loans of up to $40,000 for solar installations.

By switching to solar power, you can reduce your carbon footprint, lower your electricity bills, and protect yourself from rising energy costs.

Solar panel installers in New Brunswick

If you're looking to install solar panels in New Brunswick, there are several companies that can help. Here is some information about solar panel installers in the area:

Sunly

Sunly is a local Atlantic Canadian company with an office in Stratford, PEI. They have completed over 1,700 installations, with four years of project management experience and installations, and their company founders have over ten years of experience each in solar. Sunly focuses on grid-tied systems, which connect to the electrical grid and use a net metering system. They also offer ground mount systems, which can be placed in the most optimal location on your property to ensure maximum sunlight exposure. Sunly provides milestone payments to help make paying for your solar panels more manageable.

Solar X

Solar X is a reputable solar company in Canada, with over 450 reviews and national reach. They offer a free solar cost calculator on their website to help you determine how much you could save by switching to solar power. They also have a recycling program for old solar panels and provide 24/7 customer support.

Epic Energy Solutions

Epic Energy Solutions offers complete installation and service of alternative energy systems, including off-grid homes, grid-tied/net metered systems, and battery and generator backups. They provide free estimates and professional installation and service. Epic Energy Solutions also offers energy monitoring systems, so you can check your home power status wherever you are in the world. They have experience with solar tracking systems, which maximize electricity production by moving your panels to follow the sun throughout the day.

EnergyHub

EnergyHub provides a comprehensive guide to installing solar power in New Brunswick, covering topics such as rebates, tax breaks, interconnection policy, cost of installation, and natural factors. They also offer a free personalized cost estimate for those interested in solar power.

When choosing a solar installer, it is important to consider the company's experience, reviews, and accessibility. Be sure to get multiple quotes and choose a contractor that you trust and feel comfortable with.

Financing options for solar panels in New Brunswick

New Brunswick has a range of financing options for those looking to install solar panels. The province is ranked among the best in the country for financing options and net metering policy.

Greener Homes Loan

Homeowners in New Brunswick can apply for a Greener Homes Loan of up to $40,000, which is interest-free for 10 years. This loan can be used to finance solar panels.

Greener Energy Loans from Banks

Some banks, like RBC, offer energy saver loans for green initiatives, including solar panels.

Cash

Many homeowners opt to pay for solar panels in cash.

Milestone Payments

Some solar companies offer milestone payments, meaning you pay as the project progresses, rather than paying the full cost upfront.

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE)

PACE is an innovative financing option that allows you to cover the entire upfront cost of your solar system with a $0 down, long amortization period, low-interest loan. However, this type of loan is not currently available in New Brunswick.

Federal Greener Homes Rebate

All provinces also have access to the Federal Greener Homes Rebate of up to $5,000.

Total Home Energy Savings Program

NB Power offers a comprehensive home energy efficiency program that includes a rebate of $0.20 to $0.30 per watt on solar photovoltaic systems. This rebate is only available through the Total Home Energy Savings Program.

Solar panel maintenance in New Brunswick

Solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bill and reduce your home's carbon footprint. They can last about 25 to 30 years and require minimal maintenance. However, to get the most value and productivity out of your panels, proper maintenance is key. Here are some tips for maintaining your solar panels in New Brunswick:

• Cleaning: Dirt, debris, dust, and other substances can accumulate on your panels, especially during storms or long periods without rain. It is recommended to clean your panels by spraying them down with lukewarm water from a hose or garden hose. Do not use cleaning agents, soap, or a pressure washer as these can damage the panels. Cleaning solar panels two to four times a year is sufficient, depending on the weather conditions and your location.
• Snow and Ice Removal: During winter, it is advisable to keep the panels free of snow and ice. You can remove snow and ice by spraying the panels with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as the temperature difference can crack the panels.
• Annual Inspection: While solar panels are low-maintenance, it is recommended to schedule an annual inspection with a solar specialist to ensure everything is functioning optimally. The cost of an annual inspection typically ranges from $150 to $300 per visit.
• Monitoring: Keep track of the energy output of your solar panels. A prolonged drop in production may indicate a need for maintenance or cleaning. Some solar companies offer mobile apps that allow you to monitor the energy production of each panel in real time.
• Warranty: Solar panel warranties typically cover maintenance and repair costs for a limited period, usually 10 to 25 years. Read the fine print of your warranty to understand what is covered and for how long.
• Professional Services: If you prefer, you can hire a professional solar panel cleaning and maintenance company to take care of all your maintenance needs.

Government incentives for solar panels in New Brunswick

New Brunswick has several government incentives to encourage the adoption of solar panels. The province offers the Total Home Energy Savings Program, which provides a comprehensive home energy efficiency program that gives homeowners access to free products, such as low-flow shower heads, faucet aerators, and LED lights. This program also offers rebates on insulation, heat recovery systems, air sealing, pool pumps, and more. The New Home Energy Savings Program provides cash incentives of up to $10,000 for new homes that exceed the National Building Code.

Additionally, NB Power offers a $0.20 to $0.30 per watt rebate on solar photovoltaic systems through the Total Home Energy Savings Program. The Low-Income Energy Savings Program offers free energy efficiency upgrades to residents who qualify below the established Housing Income Limits. This includes faucet aerators, insulation, LED lighting, and air sealing.

The Total Home Energy Savings Program also offers incentives for solar PV systems, with a rebate of $200-$300/kW. The program's incentive amounts may change, so it is recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.

New Brunswick also has the sixth-highest potential for solar energy production in Canada, receiving more solar irradiation than most other provinces and territories. This makes it an attractive location for solar power adoption.

Solar panel costs in New Brunswick

The average cost of solar panels in New Brunswick is $2.94 per watt, making a typical 6000-watt (6 kW) solar system $12,350 after claiming the 30% federal solar tax credit. This is lower than the average price of residential solar power systems across the United States, which is currently $3.00 per watt.

The upfront cost of installation is a significant factor in determining whether to switch to solar power. The current average price range in New Brunswick is about $2.89-$3.64 per watt. The price per watt varies depending on the size of the system, the complexity of the job, the type of equipment used, and the quality of the installation company.

The size of a solar panel system also affects installation costs. Larger solar installations typically have a lower cost per watt due to 'bulk price' purchasing, but the total cost is higher as more individual panels are required.

New Brunswick offers a provincial rebate of $200 per kW, up to $3,000. Additionally, there is a federal grant of up to $5,000, providing $1,000/kW installed.

The Total Home Energy Savings Program (THESP) offered by Énergie NB Power is a comprehensive energy efficiency incentive program. The solar portion of the program provides a rebate ranging from $0.20/watt to $0.30/watt, depending on the number of energy upgrades performed.

Canadian homeowners may also be eligible for grants up to $5,000 for energy efficiency home upgrades through the Federal Green Homes Program.

Frequently asked questions