Paying for it
The federal landscape shifted in 2024–25: the headline grant closed. Here is what is actually available now, how solar loans compare, and why "free solar" pitches deserve a hard look.
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Federal programs — status
Stopped taking new applicants in March 2024. The final deadline for existing applicants to upload documents was 31 December 2025. The $5,000 solar grant is no longer open.
The interest-free loan of up to $40,000 stopped accepting applications on 1 October 2025.
An $800-million program delivered through the provinces and territories, aimed at lower- and median-income households. Eligibility and amounts vary by where you live.
Each changes your upfront cost, your lifetime savings, and how complicated it is to sell the house later. None is universally best.
Highest lifetime savings, no interest, simplest ownership. Best payback, but ties up $15k–$35k. You own the system and any future net-metering credits outright.
Spreads the cost over 5–15 years. You still own the system and keep the incentives. Watch the interest rate and any dealer fee folded into the price — a low monthly payment can hide a high total cost.
A company owns the panels; you pay a monthly fee to use them. Little or no upfront cost, but the savings are smaller and the contract follows the house. Read the escalator clause.
You buy the electricity the panels produce at a set rate rather than renting the hardware. Similar trade-offs to a lease; the per-kWh rate and term are what matter.
With the federal grant closed, the value increasingly comes from provincial rebates, utility programs, and net-metering credits — all of which differ by province and change often.
Retail-rate net metering with credits carried up to 12 months; check your local utility (LDC).
Net metering through BC Hydro and FortisBC; low clean-power rates mean longer payback.
Micro-generation export credits; some retailers offer higher summer export rates.
Hydro-Québec net metering in kWh credits valid for 24 months; very low rates.
Net metering with SaskPower; strong sun and higher rates help payback.
Programs and rates vary by province; rising power prices are improving the case.
Program details change frequently. Always confirm current terms with the administering agency or your utility before signing anything.
Common questions
Run your bill through the estimator to see payback under a cash purchase, then talk to installers about loan terms.
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