As energy costs rise and environmental awareness grows, more homeowners are looking skyward for their next major home upgrade—solar panels. Tapping into the sun’s power isn’t just a trend—it’s a long-term investment in sustainability, energy independence, and potential savings.
But before you jump into installing a solar energy system, it’s crucial to understand the basics. Solar isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Your home’s layout, energy consumption, local incentives, and long-term goals all play a role in determining if solar is right for you.
At Stripped Electrical, we’ve helped countless Edmonton homeowners plan and prepare for successful solar installations. We're more than just your local electricians—we’re your partners in making informed, efficient, and future-proof electrical decisions.
Here’s what you need to know before making the switch to solar power.
1. How Does Solar Power Work?
Let’s start with the fundamentals. Solar panels (photovoltaic panels) absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. That power is then sent to an inverter, which converts DC into alternating current (AC)—the type of electricity your home uses.
From there, your solar energy can:
- Power your home in real-time
- Charge a battery storage system
- Feed excess electricity back into the grid (net metering)
This allows you to reduce your reliance on utility companies and, depending on your setup, even earn credits for the energy you don’t use.
2. Is My Home a Good Candidate for Solar?
Not every home is solar-ready. Several factors impact solar feasibility, including:
Roof Orientation & Pitch
South-facing roofs with a slope between 30°–45° typically get the best sun exposure. East- and west-facing roofs may still work but can be slightly less efficient.
Shading
Tall trees, nearby buildings, or chimneys can reduce your panels’ output. A solar site analysis can help identify any shading issues and determine the optimal panel placement.
Roof Condition
Your roof should be in good shape—ideally with 10–15 years of life left. If it's due for a replacement soon, it’s best to do that before installing panels.
Available Space
Solar panel systems require a decent amount of surface area. A smaller roof might mean fewer panels—and lower total energy production.
3. What Are the Costs Involved?
The cost of a solar system depends on the size, type of panels, inverter choice, and whether you add battery storage. In Alberta, a typical residential solar setup (around 6-10 kW) can cost between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives.
Here’s what’s usually included in your quote:
- Solar panels and mounting hardware
- Inverter(s)
- Electrical wiring and conduit
- Monitoring system (for performance tracking)
- Installation labour
- Permits and inspections
While that may sound steep, consider the long-term savings on energy bills, as well as the value it adds to your home.
4. What Incentives Are Available in Alberta?
Thanks to government programs and local incentives, going solar in Alberta is more affordable than ever.
Greener Homes Grant (Canada-wide)
Homeowners can receive up to $5,000 in rebates for eligible energy upgrades, including solar installations, plus up to $600 toward the cost of pre- and post-installation energy evaluations.
Greener Homes Loan
Offers up to $40,000 interest-free financing for qualifying upgrades, including solar systems.
Net Billing (Alberta)
While Alberta doesn’t offer traditional net metering, the Micro-Generation Regulation allows you to sell unused electricity back to the grid at the current retail rate—providing monthly credits on your utility bill.
Stripped Electrical can guide you through the application process to ensure you maximize your eligibility and benefits.
5. Should You Consider Battery Storage?
Solar energy production doesn’t stop when you’re not home—but your usage might. That’s where battery systems come in.
Pros of Adding Storage:
- Use solar power at night or during cloudy days
- Backup power during grid outages
- Greater energy independence
- May be eligible for future incentives
While battery systems (like Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem) do increase upfront costs, they also give you more control over your energy usage and help protect against future rate hikes.
6. How Much Can You Save with Solar?
Solar isn’t just about reducing your environmental impact—it can also significantly cut your energy bills.
The average Albertan household spends around $1,500–$2,500 per year on electricity. With a well-designed solar system, you can offset 70–100% of those costs, depending on:
- System size
- Energy usage
- Sun exposure
- Financing terms
Over the 25+ year lifespan of a solar panel system, this can add up to tens of thousands in savings.
7. Installation and Maintenance: What to Expect
At Stripped Electrical, we ensure your solar journey is seamless from start to finish. Here’s how we typically guide clients through the process:
- Site Assessment – We evaluate your home’s solar potential and identify any upgrades needed.
- Custom Design – We tailor a system that meets your energy goals, budget, and roof layout.
- Permit Applications – We handle all permits, utility notifications, and paperwork.
- Professional Installation – Our experienced electricians install your system with precision and care.
- Inspection & Commissioning – We ensure everything meets safety and code standards before going live.
- Monitoring & Support – We help you track system performance and are always available for maintenance or support.
Solar panels require very little maintenance—just occasional cleaning and a visual check every year or two. Most systems come with 25-year warranties for performance and 10+ years for equipment.
8. Common Misconceptions About Solar
Let’s clear up a few myths:
- “Solar doesn’t work in winter.”
Solar panels still generate power on cold or cloudy days—sometimes more efficiently due to lower temperatures. - “Solar is too expensive.”
With rebates, 0% loans, and long-term savings, solar is more accessible than ever. - “I need a perfectly sunny roof.”
Partial shading or east-west orientation can still make solar a viable option with smart design. - “It won’t increase my home’s value.”
Studies show homes with solar systems sell faster and at higher prices.
Stripped Electrical: Your Local Solar Experts
Choosing solar is a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Stripped Electrical, we combine deep industry knowledge with a personal, customer-first approach.
Our commitment to excellence means:
- Transparent, honest recommendations
- Tailored designs based on your real-world needs
- Local expertise and support you can rely on
- Seamless service from consultation to connection
We’re not just in the business of installing panels—we’re in the business of empowering homeowners to take charge of their energy future.
Ready to Explore Solar? Let's Talk.
Whether you're just curious or ready to make the leap, our team is here to help you understand your options and make an informed decision.
📧 Email us at: hello@strippedelectrical.ca
📞 Call us at: 780-932-1776
Let’s light up your home—and your future—with clean, renewable energy
