As a bustling city and the center of Canada’s oil and gas industry, Calgary is no stranger to the importance of energy. In fact, Calgary has some of the highest electricity prices in the entire country. But when it comes to energy production, Calgary is well-positioned to take advantage of one of the most abundant and powerful sources – solar energy.
For many homeowners in Calgary, installing solar panels is a great option to reduce their electricity bill and increase energy efficiency. Not only can homeowners benefit from lower energy bills, but they can also contribute to reducing their carbon footprint – which offers financial and environmental rewards.
Solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular option for businesses in Calgary due to the potential savings in electricity costs and the positive impact it can have on their bottom line.
Yet many homeowners and business owners are unsure if solar panels are the right energy choice for them. Can solar truly offer the benefits they’re looking for? How much will the installation cost, and what savings can they expect? At Halat Electric, we are committed to helping our customers make informed decisions about their energy needs. Our team of experienced professionals is available to discuss the pros and cons of solar energy with you so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not solar is the right choice.
How Does Solar Energy Work?
Before we look at the what of a solar installation for a Calgary home or business, let’s look at the how. Solar energy works by capturing the energy of sunlight and converting it into electricity. There are several elements that work in tandem to achieve this:
Solar Panels – Photovoltaic (PV) cells, also called solar panels, convert the energy of sunlight into electricity. These are often installed on the roof but could also be installed on a ground-mounted rack.
Inverter – An inverter is a device that converts the electricity generated by the solar panels from direct current (DC) power into alternating current (AC) power, which most appliances require. This means that you can actually use the power generated by your solar system in your home.
Mounting and Racking Systems – This system helps to position the solar panels on the roof or ground mount so they are optimized to capture sunlight. Mounts also provide a way to hold the panels securely in place.
Battery Storage – All that power needs to go somewhere, and that’s where battery storage comes in. Batteries can store the energy produced by the solar panels for use when there isn’t enough sunlight to generate electricity, such as at night or on cloudy days.Metering System – This system tracks how much electricity is being generated and used so that homeowners or businesses can get an accurate picture of their solar energy output. Over time, you’ll be able to track your energy savings and adjust as needed.
Solar Energy: The Economical Option for Calgary
Calgary enjoys around 2,300 hours of sunlight per year, making it a prime location for harnessing solar energy. Thanks to its climate and geographical location, solar panel installations here can generate a high energy yield throughout the year.
Here are just a few of the benefits that Calgary solar panel users can enjoy:
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- Optimal Sunlight Exposure: On average, Calgary receives 333 days of sunshine per year, making it well-suited for generating solar power. The city’s altitude and relatively sunny climate allow solar panels to work even more efficiently, thus providing a higher energy output than in other locations.
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- Decreased Utility Bills: The main financial advantage of installing solar panels for homeowners and businesses is a significant decrease in monthly electricity bills. By producing and consuming solar energy, individuals and businesses can become less dependent on traditional energy sources, simultaneously reducing recurrent expenses and generating long-term savings.
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- Energy Rebates: The Government of Alberta’s rebate program for residential solar panel installations and commercial solar panel installations provides incentives for those adopting solar energy. These incentives can lower the initial costs of your solar panel system, making it more accessible to a broader range of budgets.
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- Power Peace of Mind: Electricity is something we often take for granted. In the event of a power failure, however, solar panels can keep your lights and appliances on during blackouts or other emergencies. Solar energy systems can also be designed to store excess electricity in batteries for later use, giving you peace of mind even when grid-supplied power is unavailable.
Beyond The Savings: The Environmental & Sustainable Benefits of Solar
Beyond the financial advantages, solar power offers numerous environmental benefits, including lowering one’s carbon footprint and supporting initiatives aimed at achieving long-term sustainability goals:
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- Carbon Emissions Reduction: Solar power is a clean form of energy that contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Homeowners and businesses that switch to solar energy can drastically cut their carbon footprint, helping Calgary and the planet in the fight against climate change.
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- Energy Independence: By harnessing solar energy, our reliance on non-renewable energy sources such as oil, natural gas, and coal can be reduced. Solar power represents a viable pathway to energy independence for individuals, companies, and entire communities.
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- Improved Business Branding: Companies that invest in solar energy can benefit from the positive public sentiment that comes with environmental stewardship. Especially for companies that depend on customer loyalty and brand recognition, investing in renewable energy is a great way to stand out from the competition.
The Bright Future of Solar Energy in Calgary
Calgary’s solar energy landscape holds tremendous potential for homeowners and businesses alike. The city’s climate conditions, coupled with government incentives, make adopting solar technology a sound financial and environmental investment.
By installing solar panels, Calgarians can enjoy long-term cost savings, lower carbon emissions, and promote energy independence within their community. Don’t hesitate to be a part of Calgary’s bright solar energy future and explore the many advantages of installing solar panels in this vibrant city.
Are you ready to learn more about going solar in Calgary? At Halat Electric, we are the experts in helping you make the switch to solar. Our experienced team is devoted to helping Calgarians find the best solar solutions for their unique needs.
Visit us online to learn more and get started with a consultation with one of our solar energy specialists today. With us by your side, you can enjoy the many benefits of solar power and start making a difference in Calgary’s bright energy future.