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FrequentlyAsked Questions.
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How does solar work?
What happens during bad weather conditions?
Residential solar energy systems work by converting sunlight into electricity through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are typically installed on the roof of a home or in an area where they can receive maximum sunlight exposure. When sunlight hits the PV cells, it creates an electrical current that flows through wires to an inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the cells into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power household appliances and electronics.
At Ark Renewable Energy we source premium solar panels that can generate electricity even in bad weather. We use high-quality panels that are efficient in low-light conditions and micro inverters to ensure optimal performance even when panels are partially obstructed. We often get asked what happens in the even of snowfall on the panels. A study from Northern Alberta Institute of Technology has shown that snow only affects solar panel production by 2.2% per year, and snow melts faster on panels than on regular roofs. Therefore, you can produce and store enough energy in summer to cover your needs in winter. Sunny days are the best days for solar collection, but just because the sun hasn’t broken through the clouds doesn’t mean your panels aren’t producing power. Cloudy days still produce power (the brighter the better) but if it's daylight hours, you’ll still be pushing watts back into your home.
Do I need a battery?
Residential solar systems don’t require batteries! This is the most common misconception we hear today. Through what’s called a Net Metering Agreement with your utility provider, the grid is used as storage, and whatever power you generate that isn’t immediately used, is sold back to the utility at an agreed rate. This allows solar in Canada to work on an annual basis, with peak production and credits built in the summer, to be used and drawn upon throughout the winter.
How much can I save by going solar?
The amount of savings you can achieve depends on your current home energy usage, roof space, and orientation of your home. We create a customized system for you that maximizes these savings. Our design utilizes the most sun-exposed areas with highly efficient panels. Contact us now to receive a free proposal, and we will take care of everything else for you!
What is net metering? Do I need it?
How long does the process take?
Net Metering is the process in which your electrical utility allows you to sell your excess electricity back to them. It is necessary if you want to have a solar system without batteries (which we highly recommend).
Typically, it takes 4-6 months from the initial site audit to the activation of the system. However, the duration may differ for each household, influenced by factors such as the application process, permitting requirements, and other variables. During the process we have experienced project managers to assist and expedite the process.
What are the upfront costs for solar?
There are virtually no upfront costs since we finance all of our customer’s projects through the Federal Greener Homes Loan program, an interest free loan. That means solar will be a monthly investment that is offset by the savings of your current electricity bill. Now you’ll get to redirect most of your electricity bill towards an asset you own. We only require a $1500 deposit to get this project started, fully refunded to you at the end. To apply for that 0% interest loan, there are 2 government-required audits that cost an estimated total of $700.
Will I still have an electricity bill after solar?
Your bill is split into two parts: electricity rates and admin fees. Solar will reduce your electricity rate charges and variable admin fees (based on energy use). Your credits can cover fixed charges (daily grid connection fees) during high production months.
What if I need to get my roof replaced?
If your roof is over 15 years old or has damage, it’s best to re-roof before installing solar to avoid extra uninstall/reinstall costs. That’s why we have a site survey to reduce your risk of having to replace your roofs during the Greener Homes Program. Our panels are rated for extreme weather and can often extend the lifespan of shingles beneath them!
How do credits for my extra power work?
We recommend enrolling in Solar Club which is an energy buyback program that improves the savings for people with solar panels in Alberta. This program lets you sell excess energy at a higher rate (30¢/kWh) during high-production months (spring and summer) and switch to a lower rate (9.45¢/kWh) during low-production months. These credits help offset winter costs, and you can even receive cash back on unused credits.
What if my roof starts leaking? How do I know nothing will go wrong during installation?
We’ve completed over 200 projects and have never had issues with leaky roofs. This is because our installers are professionally trained to handle roof work. And to prevent leaks, we use new technology to create self flashing seals, to reduce the chance of any leaky roofs.
Who do I reach out for further questions during process?
Each project has a dedicated Project Manager that can answer your questions and provide the support. Once you are ready to move forward, during the welcome call, you will be introduced to your personal Project Manager, who you can reach out to directly for any project-specific questions!
How do I know how my system is perfoming?
Our Project Managers will help you get set-up with a backend monitoring app to watch for system statuses and energy production levels over time. You’ll be able to see what each panel is producing at any time!
What happens when I move?
The great thing about solar is that since it lowers utility costs, it can increase the value of your home. A meta study done in 2019 by Zillow found that homes with solar panels sold for about 4.1% more than homes with no solar panels.