Ontario was the first jurisdiction in North America to adopt a European styled Feed In Tariff (FIT) program to stimulate investment in photovoltaic installations and other renewable generation technologies
This program provides for the signing of a 20-year contract with the Government of Ontario, whereby the contract guarantees a fixed amount payable per kilowatt-hour generated from the renewable energy project. Controlled and paid by the Ontario Power Authority.
Proposed O.P.A’s FIT rates for Photovoltaic Electricity production are as follows: ≤ 10kW @ 80.2 cents /kWh 10 - 100kW @ 71.3 100 - 500kW @ 63.5 ≥ 500 kW @ 53.9 Ground mounted field applications ≤ 10MW @ 44.3 cents per kWh
CanSIA is proud to be a member of the Green Energy Act Alliance
The Ontario Government passed the “Green Energy and Green Economy Act” into law on May 14, 2009. The Act is expected to boost investment in renewable energy projects and increase conservation, creating green jobs and economic growth.
The objectives of the Ontario Green Energy Act include:
Bill 150, Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009 [PDF]
Ontario Feed in Tariff (FIT) Program
Ontario’s Feed-in Tariff (FIT) Program is a guaranteed funding structure that combines stable, competitive prices and long-term contracts for energy generated using renewable resources. This will help Ontario to phase out coal-fired electricity by the end of 2014 – the single largest climate change initiative in North America.
Homeowners, business owners and private developers may apply to the FIT Program if they use one or more forms of renewable energy, including wind, waterpower, biomass and biogas, solar photovoltaic (PV) power and landfill gas.
For more information visit the Ontario Power Authority (http://fit.powerauthority.on.ca/)
Solar Thermal Task Force
On October 31, 2008, the Solar Task Force completed its mandate with the submission of a final report. The report focuses on the residential solar hot water (RSHW) market in Ontario and looks at the potential role of RSHW in meeting the province's goal of 100,000 solar roofs.
Click here for the full report
(http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/pdf/conservation/OSTF-Final_Report103108.pdf)
For more information visit the Ontario Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/energy/conservation/?page=solar-task-force)
CanSIA Consultation Activities
CanSIA has been involved in a number of meetings and consultation sessions concerning solar and the Green Energy and Green Economy Act. Various CanSIA submissions include the follow:
CanSIA Backgrounder Document on Solar PV and Agricultural Lands [PDF]
CanSIA Presentation to the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure regarding Solar PV and Agricultural Lands (April 23, 2009) [PDF]
CanSIA Submission regarding Domestic Content (May 8, 2009) [PDF]
CanSIA Submission to the Ministry of Environment regarding the Renewable Energy Approval Process
July 1, 2009 [PDF]
Nov 10, 2009 [PDF]
Information Links
CanSIA Press Release - Green Energy Act
Proposed Green Energy Act Attracts Industry Wide Support
Green Energy Act Summary – McMillan Energy Law Bulletin
Ontario Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Website (http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/energy/gea/)
Ontario
The Ontario government is expected to announce the development of a Building Code Energy Advisory Council, whose mandate is focused on standards for energy conservation. CanSIA has fostered a close relationship with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) and continues to provide the Ministry with valuable input.
CanSIA Submission to Ontario MMAH (May 8, 2009) [PDF]
MMAH Response Letter to CanSIA regarding Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems and Backflow Prevention (June 15, 2009) [PDF]
Please stay tuned for more information.
ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat
The ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program runs from April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2011. Incentives are offered to industrial/commercial/institutional (ICI) sector to install active energy-efficient solar air and/or water heating systems.
The program’s maximum payment for ICI sector solar hot water projects is up to $400,000.
For more information on this Federal program visit NRCan (http://ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/index-eng.cfm)
ecoENERGY for Renewable Power
This program provides a 1 cent/kWh incentive for up to 10 years to eligible low-impact, renewable electricity projects constructed over the next four years - April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2011.
For more information on this Federal program visit NRCan (http://ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/power-electricite/index-eng.cfm).
ecoENERGY Retrofit
This program provides grants to homeowners and financial incentives to small and medium-sized businesses, industry and public institutions to help them invest in energy and pollution-saving upgrades.
For more information on solar incentives for residential homes visit the NRCan Office of Energy Efficiency (http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/retrofit-homes/retrofit-qualify-grant.cfm?attr=4)
For more information on other ecoENERGY Retrofit programs visit NRCan Office of Energy Efficiency (http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/retrofit-summary.cfm?attr=0)
Class 43 Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance and Canadian Renewable and Conservation Expenses
A 50% accelerated CCA is provided under Class 43.2 of Schedule II to the Income Tax Regulations for specified clean energy generation equipment. Eligible equipment includes solar thermal, solar air and solar photovoltaic equipment while project size restrictions have been eliminated.
Class 43.2 was introduced in 2005 and is currently available for assets acquired on or after February 23, 2005 and before 2012. For assets acquired before February 23, 2005, accelerated CCA is provided under Class 43.1 is 30%.
For more information visit the NRCan Office of Energy Efficiency (http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/industrial/financial-assistance/tax-incentives.cfm?attr=24) and Finance Canada (http://www.budget.gc.ca/2007/plan/bpa5a-eng.html).
Northwest Territories | Yukon |
Micro-Generation Regulation
On February 1, 2008 the Government of Alberta issued the Micro-Generation Regulation. This regulation allows Albertans to generate their own environmentally friendly electricity and receive credit for any power they send into the electricity grid.
For more information visit the Alberta Utilities Commission (http://www.auc.ab.ca/rule-development/micro-generation/Pages/default.aspx)
Alberta Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Solar Hot Water Incentives
Solar BC offers a number of different incentive options for residential solar hot water heating. For more information visit Solar BC (http://www.solarbc.ca/learn/incentives-costs)
Incentive for Institutional Solar Hot Water Installations
The SolarBC Institutional Incentive is part of the SolarBC Program which is funded by the Government of British Columbia, and is delivered in cooperation with Natural Resources Canada's (NRCan) federal ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program. This collaboration provides a one-stop service to B.C. applicants who plan to install a qualifying solar water system at an eligible property.
For more information visit NRCan (http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/bc-sbcii-isbsi-eng.cfm)
Energy Conservation Sales Tax Exemptions
The Province of BC provides provincial sales tax (PST) exemptions on renewable energy equipment including solar energy equipment.
For more information visit the BC Ministry of Finance (http://www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/business/Consumer_Taxes/Provincial_Sales_Tax/energy_conservation_exemptions.htm).
Standing Offer Program
BC Hydro implemented a Standing Offer Program to encourage the development of small and clean energy projects throughout British Columbia. The program is a process to purchase energy from small projects with a nameplate capacity greater than 0.05 megawatts but not more than 10 megawatts.
For more information visit BC Hydro (http://www.bchydro.com/planning_regulatory/acquiring_power/standing_offer_program.html).
BC Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Solar Hot Water Program
Manitoba Hydro offers solar hot water incentives to eligible home owners. For more information visit Manitoba Hydro (http://www.hydro.mb.ca/your_home/solar_water_heating/index.shtml).
Net Metering Program
Contact Manitoba Hydro (http://www.hydro.mb.ca/index.shtml) to learn more about Net Metering.
Manitoba Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Efficiency NB
The Province of New Brunswick offers a number of energy efficiency incentives and may pertain to solar energy installations, including residential, commercial, industrial and community projects. For more information visit Efficiency NB (http://www.efficiencynb.ca/enb/home.jsp).
NB Power Net Metering Program
NB Power has created a Net Metering Program which allows distributed renewable energy projects to connect to the electrical grid system. For more information visit NB Power.
New Brunswick Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
The Province of Newfoundland Labrador currently has no solar incentives.
Energy Efficiency Incentive Program (EEIP)
This program provides up to a 50% rebate to residents for new energy efficient products in addition to other energy efficiency incentives.
For more information visit the Government of Northwest Territories (http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/EEIP.aspx)
Alternative Energy Technologies Program
The Alternative Energy Technologies Program (AETP) is designed to promote the use of renewable energy sources in the NWT. The funding is split into three sections:
1. Community Renewable Energy Fund (CREF)
2. Medium Renewable Energy Fund (MREF)
3. Small Renewable Energy Fund (SREF)
For more information visit the Government of Northwest Territories (http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/aetp.aspx)
Commercial/Industrial Solar Hot Water & Solar Hot Air Rebate
Conserve Nova Scotia provides a 15 % rebate of the installed cost of a solar water heating system for institutional, industrial or commercial use. The maximum provincial rebate is $20,000. Also, Conserve Nova Scotia provides a 15 % rebate of the installed cost of a solar air heating system for institutional, industrial or commercial use. The maximum provincial rebate is $20,000.
For further information please visit the (http://www.conservens.ca/for-your-business/).
Residential Solar Hot Water Heating Program
Homeowners that take part in this program will have opportunity to receive a 15% rebate up to $20,000. There is also an opportunity to be eligible for Federal solar incentives under this program.
For more information visit Conserve NS (http://www.conservens.ca/rebates/solar-hot-water-heating.asp).
Residential Solar Air Rebate
Conserve Nova Scotia provides a 15 % rebate of the installed cost of a solar air heating system for residential use. The maximum provincial rebate is $20,000. There is also an opportunity to be eligible for Federal solar incentives under this program.
For further information please visit the Conserve NS (http://www.conservens.ca/rebates/solar-air-heating.asp).
Nova Scotia Power Net Metering Program
To provide more options when it comes to renewable energy, Nova Scotia Power has launched a new program called “Net Metering”. Residential and commercial customers are now able to connect small renewable energy generating units (100 kilowatts or less) to Nova Scotia Power's electrical grid.
The program provides Nova Scotians with a risk free way of meeting their own energy needs from renewable sources while still having the security of being able to draw from the provincial power grid when needed.
For further information please visit the Government of Nova Scotia (http://www.gov.ns.ca/energy/electricity/net-metering.asp).
Nova Scotia Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Nunavut Energy Retrofit Program
The Government of Nunavut offers a variety of Energy Retrofit Programs. For information visit them on their website (http://cgs.gov.nu.ca/en/energy-services/nerp)
Feed in Tariff (FIT) Program
This program pays solar energy producers a rate of 44.3 cents to 80.2 cents per kilowatt hour for grid tied solar power over a contract life of 20 years for projects under 10 megawatts.
For more information contact your local electrical distribution company for details and the Ontario Power Authority. (http://fit.powerauthority.on.ca/)
Home Energy Savings Program
To help homeowners save energy, save money and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Ontario government has created the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program. More than $2500 in available Federal and Provincial incentives is available for the installation of a solar domestic hot water system.
For more information visit the Government of Ontario. (http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/energy/conservation/homeenergyon/)
Ontario Solar Thermal Heating Initiative (OSTHI)
This initiative is complements the existing Federal ecoENERGY Renewable Heat Program for institutional, commercial and industrial projects. The program allows eligible project
For more information visit NRCan. (http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/on-osthi-ioscst-eng.cfm)
Net Metering Program
Electricity consumers in Ontario who produce some of their own power may take advantage of “net metering”, an initiative of the Ministry of Energy. Net metering allows you to send electricity you generate from renewable sources to the distribution system for a credit toward your energy costs. In essence, it’s a “trade” of electricity you supply against electricity you consume.
For more information please visit the Government of Ontario (http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/pdf/renewable/NetMeteringBrochure.pdf) and contact your local electrical utility company.
Electricity Retrofit Incentive Program (Commercial)
The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) through the Every Kilowatt Counts initiative has developed a commercial incentive program. Commercial building owners/tenants can retrofit their building with solar hot water heaters and other electricity saving equipment and receive a rebate from the OPA. For more information visit the OPA and the Electricity Retrofit Incentive Program.
Ontario Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Office of Energy Efficiency
The Government of PEI provides a number of energy efficiency incentives through their Office of Energy Efficiency. For more information visit the PEI Office of Energy Efficiency.
Sales Tax Exemption
There is a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) exemption on small-scale renewable energy equipment. Items which are exempt from provincial sales tax include solar thermal and solar photovoltaic systems.
For more information please visit the PEI Office of Energy Efficiency.
Net Metering
Newly established Net-Metering System Regulations make it more steam lined for Island homeowners, small businesses or farmers who have an interest in generating their own electricity to install small-scale generating systems (100 kilowatts or less).
For more information please visit the Maritime Electric (http://www.maritimeelectric.com/environment/env_energy.asp).
Minimum Purchase Price Regulations
The Minimum Purchase Price Regulations establish the price which utilities must pay for power produced by large-scale renewable energy generators – that is those capable of producing more than 100 kilowatts of energy. The rate has been set at 7.75 cents per kilowatt hour with 5.75 cents of that as a fixed rate and 2.0 cents as a variable rate.
Solar photovoltaic systems are eligible under this regulation.
For more information please visit the PEI Government.(http://www.irac.pe.ca/document.asp?file=legislation/RenewableEnergyActMinimumPurchasePriceRegulations.asp)
Energy Efficiency Programs
The Province of Quebec does not have any specific solar incentives however you can visit l'Agence de l'efficacité énergétique ( www.aee.gouv.qc.ca/index.jsp) for energy efficiency information.
For additional information on energy efficiency programs and incentives please visit Hydro Québec website (www.hydroquebec.com)
Net Metering Program
Hydro Québec has a net metering option which allows households or entities to feed surplus power generated from distributed systems, such as solar PV systems, into the grid. For more information visit www.hydroquebec.com/autoproduction/en/mesurage_net.html
Quebec Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Energy Star Rebate for New Homes
Saskatchewan residents who build or purchase a newly constructed ENERGY STAR qualified or R-2000 home between after April 1, 2007 are now eligible to receive a number of rebates, including a $1,000 rebate for the installation of a solar domestic hot water heating system.
For more information please visit SaskEnergy. (www.saskenergy.com/saving_energy/energystarnewhomes.asp)
EnerGuide for Houses Program
The Government of Saskatchewan has extended and enhanced the Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses retrofit grant program until March 31, 2011. Individuals who qualify under this new program also qualify for the Federal ecoENERGY Retrofit.
For more information please visit SaskEnergy. (www.saskenergy.com/saving_energy/energuide.asp)
Solar Heating Initiative for Today (SHIFT)
The SHIFT program provides funding for new solar water heating systems to large, non-residential consumers of hot water in Saskatchewan. The program is available for businesses, industries, multiple-unit residential buildings over three stories, public institutions such as hospitals and schools, and municipal and provincial facilities. The SHIFT incentive matches the ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat incentive level combining to provide up to $80,000 on eligible project costs.
For more information please visit NRCan (http://ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/sk-shift-eng.cfm)
Net Metering Program and 25% Rebate on Start Up Solar Projects
Net metering allows individuals who use their own renewable energy sources to offset their consumption from SaskPower. Net metering is one program in a suite of sustainable and renewable energy initiatives that is designed to ensure that the province is supplied with safe, reliable and sustainable electricity now, and into the future.
The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC), with funding from Saskatchewan’s Green Strategy, has up to $300,000 per year, for four years, to support net metering installations within the province. SRC will pay a one-time fee of 25% of eligible start-up costs up to a maximum of $100,000 (i.e., maximum $25,000). Projects with generating capacities of 100kW or less, including solar photovoltaic projects, that comply with the local utility's net metering policies and enter into net metering contracts with their local electric utilities are eligible for funding under this program.
For more information please visit Saskatchewan Research Council. (http://www.src.sk.ca/html/research_technology/energy_conservation/net_metering/index.cfm)
Saskatchewan Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Good Energy Program
The Government of Yukon does offers energy efficiency incentives and offers a $500 rebate for the installation of a qualified solar hot water heating system through its Good Energy Program. This program is also tied to the Federal ecoEnergy Retrofit Program.
For more information visit the Yukon Government (http://www.esc.gov.yk.ca/programs.html).
With the support of NRCan, CanSIA conducted a project involving community solar initiatives across Canada. The following Community Action Manual is an excellent resource for environmental groups interested in increasing the amount of solar thermal systems in their communities:
CanSIA OSEA Solar Thermal Community Action Manual
CanSIA PV Community Action Manual
The following are some additional resources for community groups:
CanSIA Recommendations Report on Community Solar Initiatives
Municipal Leadership in Solar Generation Forum – City of Toronto - May 2006
If your community group has a buyer’s co-op, please contact us to be listed here. CanSIA does not endorse any of these organizations but provides this information as a service to the public.
West Toronto Initiate for Solar Energy (WISE) - Toronto WISE is a community-based initiative in the western Toronto neighbourhoods. WISE members are interested in using grid-tied PV systems for their own homes.
Canadian Federal Consumer Incentives and Provincial Solar Incentives.
To view the different government programs available in the US, please go to www.dsireusa.org
ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat
The ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program runs from April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2011. Incentives are offered to industrial/commercial/institutional (ICI) sector to install active energy-efficient solar air and/or water heating systems.
The program’s maximum payment for ICI sector solar hot water projects is up to $400,000.
For more information on this Federal program visit NRCan (http://ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/index-eng.cfm)
ecoENERGY for Renewable Power
This program provides a 1 cent/kWh incentive for up to 10 years to eligible low-impact, renewable electricity projects constructed over the next four years - April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2011.
For more information on this Federal program visit NRCan (http://ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/power-electricite/index-eng.cfm).
ecoENERGY Retrofit
This program provides grants to homeowners and financial incentives to small and medium-sized businesses, industry and public institutions to help them invest in energy and pollution-saving upgrades.
For more information on solar incentives for residential homes visit the NRCan Office of Energy Efficiency (http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/retrofit-homes/retrofit-qualify-grant.cfm?attr=4)
For more information on other ecoENERGY Retrofit programs visit NRCan Office of Energy Efficiency (http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/retrofit-summary.cfm?attr=0)
Message from Natural Resources Canada: Solar Grants from ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program [PDF]
Class 43 Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance and Canadian Renewable and Conservation Expenses
A 50% accelerated CCA is provided under Class 43.2 of Schedule II to the Income Tax Regulations for specified clean energy generation equipment. Eligible equipment includes solar thermal, solar air and solar photovoltaic equipment while project size restrictions have been eliminated.
Class 43.2 was introduced in 2005 and is currently available for assets acquired on or after February 23, 2005 and before 2012. For assets acquired before February 23, 2005, accelerated CCA is provided under Class 43.1 is 30%.
For more information visit the NRCan Office of Energy Efficiency (http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/industrial/financial-assistance/tax-incentives.cfm?attr=24) and Finance Canada (http://www.budget.gc.ca/2007/plan/bpa5a-eng.html).
Micro-Generation Regulation
On February 1, 2008 the Government of Alberta issued the Micro-Generation Regulation. This regulation allows Albertans to generate their own environmentally friendly electricity and receive credit for any power they send into the electricity grid.
For more information visit the Alberta Utilities Commission (http://www.auc.ab.ca/rule-development/micro-generation/Pages/default.aspx)
Alberta Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Solar Hot Water Incentives
Solar BC offers a number of different incentive options for residential solar hot water heating. For more information visit Solar BC (http://www.solarbc.ca/learn/incentives-costs)
Incentive for Institutional Solar Hot Water Installations
The SolarBC Institutional Incentive is part of the SolarBC Program which is funded by the Government of British Columbia, and is delivered in cooperation with Natural Resources Canada's (NRCan) federal ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program. This collaboration provides a one-stop service to B.C. applicants who plan to install a qualifying solar water system at an eligible property.
For more information visit NRCan (http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/bc-sbcii-isbsi-eng.cfm)
Energy Conservation Sales Tax Exemptions
The Province of BC provides provincial sales tax (PST) exemptions on renewable energy equipment including solar energy equipment.
For more information visit the BC Ministry of Finance (http://www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/business/Consumer_Taxes/Provincial_Sales_Tax/energy_conservation_exemptions.htm).
Standing Offer Program
BC Hydro implemented a Standing Offer Program to encourage the development of small and clean energy projects throughout British Columbia. The program is a process to purchase energy from small projects with a nameplate capacity greater than 0.05 megawatts but not more than 10 megawatts.
For more information visit BC Hydro (http://www.bchydro.com/planning_regulatory/acquiring_power/standing_offer_program.html).
BC Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Solar Hot Water Program
Manitoba Hydro offers solar hot water incentives to eligible home owners. For more information visit Manitoba Hydro (http://www.hydro.mb.ca/your_home/solar_water_heating/index.shtml).
Net Metering Program
Contact Manitoba Hydro (http://www.hydro.mb.ca/index.shtml) to learn more about Net Metering.
Manitoba Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Efficiency NB
The Province of New Brunswick offers a number of energy efficiency incentives and may pertain to solar energy installations, including residential, commercial, industrial and community projects. For more information visit Efficiency NB (http://www.efficiencynb.ca/enb/home.jsp).
NB Power Net Metering Program
NB Power has created a Net Metering Program which allows distributed renewable energy projects to connect to the electrical grid system. For more information visit NB Power.
New Brunswick Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Newfoundland Labrador Solar Incentives
The Province of Newfoundland Labrador currently has no solar incentives.
Northwest Territories Solar Incentives
Energy Efficiency Incentive Program (EEIP)
This program provides up to a 50% rebate to residents for new energy efficient products in addition to other energy efficiency incentives.
For more information visit the Government of Northwest Territories (http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/EEIP.aspx)
Alternative Energy Technologies Program
The Alternative Energy Technologies Program (AETP) is designed to promote the use of renewable energy sources in the NWT. The funding is split into three sections:
1. Community Renewable Energy Fund (CREF)
2. Medium Renewable Energy Fund (MREF)
3. Small Renewable Energy Fund (SREF)
For more information visit the Government of Northwest Territories (http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/aetp.aspx)
Commercial/Industrial Solar Hot Water & Solar Hot Air Rebate
Conserve Nova Scotia provides a 15 % rebate of the installed cost of a solar water heating system for institutional, industrial or commercial use. The maximum provincial rebate is $20,000. Also, Conserve Nova Scotia provides a 15 % rebate of the installed cost of a solar air heating system for institutional, industrial or commercial use. The maximum provincial rebate is $20,000.
For further information please visit the (http://www.conservens.ca/for-your-business/).
Residential Solar Hot Water Heating Program
Homeowners that take part in this program will have opportunity to receive a 15% rebate up to $20,000. There is also an opportunity to be eligible for Federal solar incentives under this program.
For more information visit Conserve NS (http://www.conservens.ca/rebates/solar-hot-water-heating.asp).
Residential Solar Air Rebate
Conserve Nova Scotia provides a 15 % rebate of the installed cost of a solar air heating system for residential use. The maximum provincial rebate is $20,000. There is also an opportunity to be eligible for Federal solar incentives under this program.
For further information please visit the Conserve NS (http://www.conservens.ca/rebates/solar-air-heating.asp).
Nova Scotia Power Net Metering Program
To provide more options when it comes to renewable energy, Nova Scotia Power has launched a new program called “Net Metering”. Residential and commercial customers are now able to connect small renewable energy generating units (100 kilowatts or less) to Nova Scotia Power's electrical grid.
The program provides Nova Scotians with a risk free way of meeting their own energy needs from renewable sources while still having the security of being able to draw from the provincial power grid when needed.
For further information please visit the Government of Nova Scotia (http://www.gov.ns.ca/energy/electricity/net-metering.asp).
Nova Scotia Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Nunavut Energy Retrofit Program
The Government of Nunavut offers a variety of Energy Retrofit Programs. For information visit them on their website (http://cgs.gov.nu.ca/en/energy-services/nerp)
Feed in Tariff (FIT) Program
This program pays solar energy producers a rate of 44.3 cents to 80.2 cents per kilowatt hour for grid tied solar power over a contract life of 20 years for projects under 10 megawatts.
For more information contact your local electrical distribution company for details and the Ontario Power Authority. (http://fit.powerauthority.on.ca/)
Home Energy Savings Program
To help homeowners save energy, save money and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Ontario government has created the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program. More than $2500 in available Federal and Provincial incentives is available for the installation of a solar domestic hot water system.
For more information visit the Government of Ontario. (http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/energy/conservation/homeenergyon/)
Ontario Solar Thermal Heating Initiative (OSTHI)
This initiative is complements the existing Federal ecoENERGY Renewable Heat Program for institutional, commercial and industrial projects. The program allows eligible project
For more information visit NRCan. (http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/on-osthi-ioscst-eng.cfm)
Net Metering Program
Electricity consumers in Ontario who produce some of their own power may take advantage of “net metering”, an initiative of the Ministry of Energy. Net metering allows you to send electricity you generate from renewable sources to the distribution system for a credit toward your energy costs. In essence, it’s a “trade” of electricity you supply against electricity you consume.
For more information please visit the Government of Ontario (http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/pdf/renewable/NetMeteringBrochure.pdf) and contact your local electrical utility company.
Electricity Retrofit Incentive Program (Commercial)
The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) through the Every Kilowatt Counts initiative has developed a commercial incentive program. Commercial building owners/tenants can retrofit their building with solar hot water heaters and other electricity saving equipment and receive a rebate from the OPA. For more information visit the OPA and the Electricity Retrofit Incentive Program.
Ontario Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Office of Energy Efficiency
The Government of PEI provides a number of energy efficiency incentives through their Office of Energy Efficiency. For more information visit the PEI Office of Energy Efficiency.
Sales Tax Exemption
There is a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) exemption on small-scale renewable energy equipment. Items which are exempt from provincial sales tax include solar thermal and solar photovoltaic systems.
For more information please visit the PEI Office of Energy Efficiency.
Net Metering
Newly established Net-Metering System Regulations make it more steam lined for Island homeowners, small businesses or farmers who have an interest in generating their own electricity to install small-scale generating systems (100 kilowatts or less).
For more information please visit the Maritime Electric (http://www.maritimeelectric.com/environment/env_energy.asp).
Minimum Purchase Price Regulations
The Minimum Purchase Price Regulations establish the price which utilities must pay for power produced by large-scale renewable energy generators – that is those capable of producing more than 100 kilowatts of energy. The rate has been set at 7.75 cents per kilowatt hour with 5.75 cents of that as a fixed rate and 2.0 cents as a variable rate.
Solar photovoltaic systems are eligible under this regulation.
For more information please visit the PEI Government.(http://www.irac.pe.ca/document.asp?file=legislation/RenewableEnergyActMinimumPurchasePriceRegulations.asp)
Energy Efficiency Programs
The Province of Quebec does not have any specific solar incentives however you can visit l'Agence de l'efficacité énergétique ( www.aee.gouv.qc.ca/index.jsp) for energy efficiency information.
For additional information on energy efficiency programs and incentives please visit Hydro Québec website (www.hydroquebec.com)
Net Metering Program
Hydro Québec has a net metering option which allows households or entities to feed surplus power generated from distributed systems, such as solar PV systems, into the grid. For more information visit www.hydroquebec.com/autoproduction/en/mesurage_net.html
Quebec Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Energy Star Rebate for New Homes
Saskatchewan residents who build or purchase a newly constructed ENERGY STAR qualified or R-2000 home between after April 1, 2007 are now eligible to receive a number of rebates, including a $1,000 rebate for the installation of a solar domestic hot water heating system.
For more information please visit SaskEnergy. (www.saskenergy.com/saving_energy/energystarnewhomes.asp)
EnerGuide for Houses Program
The Government of Saskatchewan has extended and enhanced the Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses retrofit grant program until March 31, 2011. Individuals who qualify under this new program also qualify for the Federal ecoENERGY Retrofit.
For more information please visit SaskEnergy. (www.saskenergy.com/saving_energy/energuide.asp)
Solar Heating Initiative for Today (SHIFT)
The SHIFT program provides funding for new solar water heating systems to large, non-residential consumers of hot water in Saskatchewan. The program is available for businesses, industries, multiple-unit residential buildings over three stories, public institutions such as hospitals and schools, and municipal and provincial facilities. The SHIFT incentive matches the ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat incentive level combining to provide up to $80,000 on eligible project costs.
For more information please visit NRCan (http://ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/sk-shift-eng.cfm)
Net Metering Program and 25% Rebate on Start Up Solar Projects
Net metering allows individuals who use their own renewable energy sources to offset their consumption from SaskPower. Net metering is one program in a suite of sustainable and renewable energy initiatives that is designed to ensure that the province is supplied with safe, reliable and sustainable electricity now, and into the future.
The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC), with funding from Saskatchewan’s Green Strategy, has up to $300,000 per year, for four years, to support net metering installations within the province. SRC will pay a one-time fee of 25% of eligible start-up costs up to a maximum of $100,000 (i.e., maximum $25,000). Projects with generating capacities of 100kW or less, including solar photovoltaic projects, that comply with the local utility's net metering policies and enter into net metering contracts with their local electric utilities are eligible for funding under this program.
For more information please visit Saskatchewan Research Council. (http://www.src.sk.ca/html/research_technology/energy_conservation/net_metering/index.cfm)
Saskatchewan Solar Companies and Organizations
For more information on solar companies and organizations visit the Member Industry Directory
Good Energy Program
The Government of Yukon does offers energy efficiency incentives and offers a $500 rebate for the installation of a qualified solar hot water heating system through its Good Energy Program. This program is also tied to the Federal ecoEnergy Retrofit Program.
For more information visit the Yukon Government (http://www.esc.gov.yk.ca/programs.html).
There are a number of performance, safety and installation standards that pertain to solar energy products in Canada. Listed below are the standards that are applicable to Canada with additional links that will provide you with further information on complimentary component standards and solar testing facilities and organizations.
CSA Standards for Solar Hot Water Heating
CSA F378-87 (R2004) – Solar Collectors
CSA F379-09 – Packaged Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems (liquid to liquid heat transfer)
CSA F383-08 – Installation Code for Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems
Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems Components – For more information download this PDF
CSA Standard for Solar Photovoltaics
CAN/CSA C61215-08 - Crystalline silicon terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval
(Adopted IEC 61215:2005, second edition, 2005-04)
CAN/CSA C61646-2 - Thin film terrestrial PV modules - Design qualification and type approval
ULc ORD C1703-1 PV Module Safety Standard
CAN/CSA F382-M89 (R2004) – Characterization of Storage Batteries for Photovoltaic Systems
Balance of System Components – Visit Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (http://www.ul.com/global/eng/pages/offerings/industries/energy/renewable/photovoltaics/balance/)
CSA Standards for Solar Air
CSA Standards and CanSIA are currently working to develop a standard for Solar Air Collectors.
Further Information
Many of the CSA Standards listed above can be purchased at www.shopcsa.ca under the “energy” section.
Verification Listing of Solar Collectors to the requirements of CSA Standard
CAN/CSA-F378-87(R1998)
For more information: Charlie Caruana (charlie.caruana@csa-international.org)
CSA-Internation
178 Rexdale Blvd.,
Toronto, M9W 1R3
Canada.
CSA Standards (http://www.csa.ca)
CSA International – Get Solar Certified (http://www.getsolarcertified.com/)
Exova – Solar Test Facility (http://www.exova.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=169&Itemid=676&lang=en)
Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (http://www.ulc.ca/)
For information relating to the National Building Code of Canada visit the National Research Council of Canada (http://www.nationalcodes.ca/nbc/index_e.shtml)
For information relating to the National Plumbing Code of Canada visit the National Research Council of Canada (http://www.nationalcodes.ca/npc/index_e.shtml)
