Do solar panels work in Calgary winters?

Yes. Cold, clear days improve panel efficiency and Calgary’s winter sun still produces. Annual totals remain strong despite shorter days.

How many panels do I need?

Most detached homes use about 18–28 panels depending on your annual kWh usage, roof space, and panel wattage.

Will snow ruin production? Should I clear it?

Light snow usually slides off pitched modules when the sun appears. We do not recommend rooftop snow clearing unless there’s unusual buildup and it can be done safely.

How long does installation take?

Most residential installs take 1–3 days on-site after permits and utility approval.

Does solar increase home value?

Well-documented systems with clean installs, warranties, and monitoring are attractive to buyers and may support resale value. Actual premiums vary by neighbourhood and market conditions.

What do solar panels cost in Calgary in 2025?

Most roof-mounted systems land around $2.50–$3.50 per watt. Typical turnkey totals are about $13–17k for 5 kW, $19–26k for 7.5 kW, and $25–35k for 10 kW before incentives.

What the Manitoba Solar Rebate Actually Covers (And What It Doesn’t) — 2025 Guide

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7 days ago
2 min read

Summary

Efficiency Manitoba rebate: $0.50/W (DC), up to $5,000 per home; no pre‑approval; apply within 90 days after commissioning (grid‑tied systems only).
Manitoba Hydro uses net billing: exports credited at $0.04390/kWh until Mar 31, 2026; size systems to your annual use.

Not covered by the MB rebate: batteries, seasonal cottages, or adding panels to an existing system; rebate caps at 10 kW (max $5k).

What’s active in 2025 (Manitoba)

Efficiency Manitoba — Solar Rebates for Homes

$0.50 per DC watt installed; up to 10 kW and $5,000 per home.
No pre‑approval required; you apply post‑installation within 90 days once Hydro commissions your system.
Grid‑tied only (Manitoba Hydro interconnection).

Local billing policy (savings mechanism)

Manitoba Hydro uses net billing (not 1:1 net metering).
Excess generation is credited at a posted “excess energy price” — $0.04390/kWh until March 31, 2026.
Best practice: size to match your annual kWh, avoiding large summertime surpluses that earn lower credits.

What the Manitoba rebate covers (and what it doesn’t)

Covers: PV panels, inverters, racking and necessary electrical — the rebate is based on nameplate watts (DC).
Doesn’t cover: batteries/backup storage, roof repairs/structural upgrades, off‑grid systems, or a second rebate for adding panels to an existing PV system.
Primary residence requirement applies; long‑term rental dwellings with year‑round occupancy may qualify when metered appropriately.

Reminder: the rebate is paid after installation; plan cash flow or use financing.

Key How to claim the rebate (in brief)

1) Design & approvals: work with a registered Efficiency MB contractor; submit Hydro interconnection application.

2) Install & commission: electrical inspection + bi‑directional meter; system goes live.

3) Apply online: submit within 90 days of commissioning with invoices/proof of payment; typical processing 6–8 weeks (varies).

Firefly Standard

Included on every residential install:

We use industry‑leading Hoymiles micro‑inverters with incredible reliability and monitoring.
We include rodent guards as a free standard, to protect wiring and your roof for the long term.
Clean cable management and neat roof runs are part of our standard install—optimized for performance and curb appeal.

FAQ

Does the Manitoba rebate cover batteries?

No — storage isn’t rebated; it can be financed separately.

Do I need pre‑approval?

No — apply after the system is live; submit within 90 days.

How are my exports credited?

At Manitoba Hydro’s posted excess energy price (annually updated).

Next steps

Want numbers for your roof? We’ll model shade, orientation, and your last 12 months of usage, then provide a fixed quote with expected production, retailer plan options, and payback math.