Solar Panels Cost in Canada (2026)
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Solar energy is becoming more affordable for Canadian homeowners, thanks to declining equipment costs, provincial net metering programs, and available financing options. But how much do solar panels cost in Canada in 2026?
This guide breaks down the average cost of solar panels, installation prices by province, and available programs to help you determine whether solar is a good investment for your home.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Canada?
Average Solar System Costs in Canada (2026)
| System Size (kW) | Average Cost (CAD) | Est. Annual Savings | Est. Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,500 – $17,500 | $800 – $1,200 | 11 – 18 years |
| 7 kW | $17,500 – $24,500 | $1,100 – $1,700 | 10 – 16 years |
| 10 kW | $25,000 – $35,000 | $1,600 – $2,400 | 10 – 16 years |
Prices include solar panels, inverters, mounting hardware, and professional installation. Annual savings estimated at national average electricity rate (~14¢/kWh). Payback period varies by province, electricity rate, and roof orientation. Provincial net metering programs and local financing (such as Alberta CEIP or Halifax Solar City) can improve payback significantly — federal Greener Homes Grant and Loan are both closed as of 2025.
Solar Panel Costs by Province in Canada
The cost of solar installation varies by province due to differences in labour rates, equipment pricing, and local conditions. The “After Incentives” column has been removed — the federal Greener Homes Grant and Loan both closed in 2025. The table now shows the key active program per province. See our full incentives guide →
| Province/Territory | Avg Cost per Watt (CAD) | 10 kW System Cost | Key Active Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $2.60 – $3.40 | $26,000 – $34,000 | Net metering (LDC) |
| British Columbia | $2.80 – $3.50 | $28,000 – $35,000 | BC Hydro net metering |
| Alberta | $2.40 – $3.20 | $24,000 – $32,000 | CEIP financing + net metering |
| Quebec | $2.50 – $3.30 | $25,000 – $33,000 | Hydro-Québec net metering |
| Manitoba | $2.40 – $3.00 | $24,000 – $30,000 | Manitoba Hydro net metering |
| Saskatchewan | $2.60 – $3.20 | $26,000 – $32,000 | SaskPower net metering |
| Nova Scotia | $2.80 – $3.50 | $28,000 – $35,000 | NS Power net metering + Solar City (HRM) |
| New Brunswick | $2.70 – $3.40 | $27,000 – $34,000 | NB Power net metering |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $2.90 – $3.60 | $29,000 – $36,000 | NL Hydro net metering |
| Prince Edward Island | $2.70 – $3.40 | $27,000 – $34,000 | Maritime Electric net metering |
| Northwest Territories | $3.00 – $3.80 | $30,000 – $38,000 | Limited — confirm locally |
| Yukon | $3.00 – $3.80 | $30,000 – $38,000 | Limited — confirm locally |
| Nunavut | $3.20 – $4.00 | $32,000 – $40,000 | Limited — confirm locally |
Solar Incentives and Rebates in Canada
Government incentives significantly reduce the cost of going solar in Canada. The most valuable active program in 2026 is Ontario’s Home Renovation Savings (HRS) Program — up to $10,000–$12,000 for solar and battery. Federal Greener Homes Grant and Loan are both closed as of 2025. Here’s what’s available by province:
❌ Canada Greener Homes Grant — Closed
This program is closed. Applications closed February 2024 and the final deadline for existing applicants to submit documents was December 31, 2025. No new applications are being accepted.
❌ Canada Greener Homes Loan — Closed
This program is closed. October 1, 2025 was the last day to apply. Existing approved applications continue to be processed.
✅ Ontario — HRS Rebate Up to $12,000 + Net Metering
- Home Renovation Savings (HRS) Program: Up to $5,000 for solar ($1,000/kW) + $5,000 for battery storage = $10,000 total ($12,000 when bundled with other upgrades). Active through late 2026, first-come first-served.
- ⚠️ HRS vs Net Metering: You generally cannot claim the HRS rebate and enrol in net metering simultaneously. Choose your path before installation — confirm with your LDC.
- Net Metering: Available through Hydro One, Toronto Hydro, Alectra, and most Ontario LDCs. Credits at full retail rate (~14–16¢/kWh blended). No HRS rebate if you choose this path.
- Toronto HELP: Up to $125,000 low-interest via property tax. Ottawa Better Homes Loan: $125,000 at 4.33% fixed.
- HST: Solar panels are HST-exempt in Ontario — saves $1,800–$4,400 on a typical system.
→ Full Ontario Solar Guide: HRS rebate, net metering, and cost breakdown
✅ British Columbia
BC Hydro net metering credits excess solar at the retail rate (~10¢/kWh). CleanBC Better Homes rebates available for heat pumps and energy upgrades. No direct provincial solar PV rebate currently.
✅ Alberta
Alberta Micro-Generation (net metering) program active — credits at ~9¢/kWh via ENMAX/ATCO. Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) offers property tax financing up to $50,000 over 20 years. No provincial sales tax on solar (GST only).
✅ Quebec
Hydro-Québec net metering credits excess solar at the retail rate. The Rénoclimat program offers grants for eligible home upgrades — confirm current solar eligibility directly with Hydro-Québec as program details change regularly.
⚠️ Nova Scotia
The SolarHomes program closed to new residential applicants on April 17, 2025. NS Power net metering remains active — one of Canada’s best, crediting excess solar at full retail rate (~18.5¢/kWh) with 12-month rollover. Halifax Regional Municipality residents can access Solar City PACE financing at 4.75% fixed over 10 years with no upfront cost.
✅ New Brunswick
NB Power net metering program active. No current direct provincial solar rebate program — confirm latest incentives with NB Power or an approved local installer.
How Much Can You Save with Solar in Canada?
A well-sized solar panel system can save homeowners $1,000 to $3,000 per year on electricity bills. The payback period is typically 6 to 12 years, depending on electricity rates and incentives.
Most solar panel systems last 25+ years, meaning you’ll enjoy decades of free electricity after your system is paid off.
Is Solar Worth it in Canada?
Solar energy is a smart investment in Canada, especially in provinces with high electricity rates and strong net metering programs.
- Lower electricity bills through net metering
- Provincial financing programs (CEIP, Solar City PACE)
- Increase home value
- Reduce carbon footprint
- Lower electricity bills
- Government rebates & grants
- Increase home value
- Reduce carbon footprint
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long do solar panels last in Canada?
Most solar panels last 25 to 30 years with minimal maintenance.
2. Does solar work in winter?
Yes! Solar panels generate electricity even in winter. Cold temperatures can actually improve panel efficiency, and panels still produce power on cloudy days.
3. Can I get paid for excess solar energy?
Yes! Most provinces have net metering programs that credit you for excess solar energy sent to the grid. Credits are applied to your electricity bill — in provinces like Nova Scotia, credits are valued at the full retail rate (~18.5¢/kWh). In Alberta, credits are ~9¢/kWh. Programs vary by province and utility, so check with your local provider.
4. How do I find the best solar installer in Canada?
Get multiple quotes from top-rated solar companies to compare prices, warranties, and reviews.
Find out if solar is worth it for you
With dropping solar costs, provincial net metering programs, and rising electricity rates, solar remains one of the best long-term investments Canadian homeowners can make. Get free, no-obligation quotes from top Canadian solar installers and see how much you can save!