Your Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about solar energy, financing, installation, and working with OnO Electric.

1
Getting Started

Most Calgary homes are excellent candidates for solar. Key factors include: south, west, or east-facing roof space, minimal shading from trees or buildings, and a roof in good condition. We provide free assessments to evaluate your specific property and give you accurate production estimates.
Residential solar systems in Calgary typically range from $15,000-$30,000 before incentives. The final cost depends on your energy usage, roof size, and system specifications. After federal and provincial rebates (up to $5,000+), many homeowners see significant cost reductions. We offer free quotes with detailed breakdowns.
From contract signing to activation, the process typically takes 8-12 weeks. The physical installation is completed in 1-3 days, but we need time for permits, inspections, and utility grid connection approvals. We handle all paperwork and coordination with the City of Calgary and your utility provider.

2
Financial & Savings

Calgary homeowners typically save $1,200-$2,500 annually on electricity bills, depending on system size and energy usage. Over 25 years, total savings range from $35,000-$50,000. With Alberta's rising electricity rates, solar provides both immediate savings and long-term protection from rate increases.
We offer multiple financing solutions: cash purchase (best ROI), solar loans (2.99-6.99% APR), HELOC options, and government-backed programs. Many customers finance with $0 down and monthly payments lower than their current electricity bills. We help you choose the best option for your situation.
Canadian homeowners can access: Canada Greener Homes Grant (up to $5,000), Alberta Municipal Solar Programs, GST rebates on equipment (~5-7% savings), and net metering credits. We handle all rebate applications and paperwork to maximize your savings.
Most Calgary systems pay for themselves in 5-7 years with current incentives and electricity rates. After payback, you enjoy 18-20 years of nearly free electricity. Solar panels typically last 25-30+ years with minimal performance degradation.

3
System Performance

Absolutely! Solar panels actually perform more efficiently in cold temperatures. While shorter daylight hours reduce winter production, Calgary's 300+ sunny days per year and high solar irradiance make it one of Canada's best cities for solar. Snow typically slides off angled panels or melts quickly due to panel heat.
Your system produces less energy on cloudy days but still generates power from ambient light. At night, you draw electricity from the grid as normal. Net metering credits your account for excess daytime production, effectively using the grid as a battery. Optional battery storage can provide backup power.
A typical 6-8kW residential system in Calgary produces 7,500-10,000 kWh annually—enough to offset 80-100% of an average home's electricity usage. We use satellite imagery, shading analysis, and 30-year weather data to provide accurate production estimates for your specific property.
Battery storage is optional. With net metering, the grid acts as your battery. However, batteries provide backup power during outages and maximize solar self-consumption. Battery costs are decreasing, and we can design systems that are battery-ready for future upgrades.

4
Installation & Maintenance

No. Professional installation actually protects the covered roof sections from weather. We use industry-standard mounting systems with waterproof flashing and sealing. If your roof needs repair, we recommend addressing it before installation. Our systems include comprehensive warranties covering both workmanship and potential roof penetration issues.
Minimal. Calgary's rain and snow naturally clean panels. We recommend visual inspections annually and professional cleaning every 2-3 years if needed (typically $150-$300). Modern systems include monitoring to alert you of any performance issues. No moving parts means virtually no maintenance.
Comprehensive coverage: Solar panels (25-30 year performance warranty), inverters (10-25 years), workmanship (5-10 years), and roof penetration (10 years). Equipment warranties are backed by manufacturers; we coordinate any warranty claims and service needs.
We strongly advise against DIY solar. In Alberta, electrical work must be performed by licensed electricians for safety and legal compliance. DIY installations void warranties, may not qualify for rebates, could create insurance issues, and often fail inspections. Professional installation ensures safety, performance, and peace of mind.

5
Technical & Grid Connection

Net metering allows you to receive credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid. Your meter tracks both consumption and production. Credits offset future usage at retail rates. In Calgary, unused credits roll over month-to-month and are paid out annually (typically at lower rates). We handle all net metering applications.
Yes, but much smaller. You'll still pay grid connection fees ($15-$30/month) and any electricity you consume beyond what your system produces. Many customers see 70-90% bill reductions. Some months your credit may exceed usage, resulting in a $0 electricity charge (minus fixed connection fees).
Solar panels increase home value by an average of 4.1% and help homes sell 20% faster. The system transfers to the new owner (simpler with cash purchases) or the buyer can assume financing. Solar is a selling point—most buyers value lower energy costs and environmental benefits.
Yes, if your roof has space and electrical panel capacity. We design systems with expansion in mind. Adding panels later is straightforward, though you may need another permit and inspection. Many customers start with a partial system and expand as budget allows or energy needs increase.

6
OnO Electric Specific

We're locally owned Calgary experts with certified Master Electricians, comprehensive warranty protection, transparent pricing, and white-glove service. We handle everything: permits, inspections, rebate applications, and utility coordination. Our reputation is built on quality work and customer satisfaction—check our reviews!
Yes, absolutely. Our solar assessments are completely free with no obligation. We'll evaluate your property, analyze your energy usage, provide detailed production estimates, review all financing and rebate options, and give you a transparent quote. Book online or call 587-284-3076.
We serve Calgary and surrounding areas including Airdrie, Okotoks, Cochrane, Chestermere, and other nearby communities. Contact us to confirm service availability for your location.

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