• Canada’s 2023 renewable energy target: 21.9 GW of installed capacity for wind, solar, and energy storage.
• Canada’s 2023 renewable energy additions: 2.3 GW of new capacity, including wind, solar, and energy storage, with a total of 48,000 solar installations across the country. ⁸

• Canada’s 2024 solar forecast: +11,104 MW added, -1,892 MW retired, net gain of 9,212 MW. ⁹
• Canadian Solar Inc. 2024 expansion plans: adding 30 GW ingot, 15 GW wafer, 10 GW cell, and 25 GW module capacity by Q1 2024. ¹⁰
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) study: Canada’s solar capacity to grow sevenfold to 35 GW by 2050.

The average costs of different electricity generation sources in Canada:

Coal:

• Canada’s 2021 coal power generation cost: $432.22 million. ¹¹

Natural Gas:

• Canada’s 2021 natural gas power generation cost: $1.14 billion. ¹¹
• Alberta natural gas price: $5.43 in 2022, projected to drop to $2.20 by 2050 in a net-zero scenario (CER). ¹²

Solar Energy:

• Canada’s solar installation cost: $3.34/watt (up from $3.01/watt in 2021), totaling $25,050 for a 7.5kW PV system. ¹³

Hydropower in Canada:

• Hydropower’s average cost as an electricity generation source in Canada is not straightforward to determine due to various factors such as location, project scale, and technology used.
• Quebec has Canada’s lowest electricity rates at $5.7 USD/kWh. ¹⁴
• The total operational costs for generating, transmitting, and distributing hydroelectric power amounted to nearly $5.4 billion. ¹⁵

• Hydroelectricity power: 5% of Canada’s total electricity production. ¹⁶
• Wind energy: 97% of Canada’s electricity production in 2022 ¹⁶
• Coal: 7% of Canada’s electricity is generated through the burning of coal ¹⁷
• Renewable Energy: Other renewables (solar, wind): 5% of Canada’s electricity, growing annually. ¹⁷
• Nuclear power: 15% of Canada’s electricity. ¹⁷

Summary

Canada’s electricity mix: 80% non-oil, led by hydro (60%), nuclear (15%), wind (7%), gas/coal (7%), and solar PV (1%). Government targets: 90% green electricity by 2030, 100% by 2050, but no specific solar PV goal.

Canada’s urban centers: 23.6 hours/day electricity availability, with rare interruptions. Rural areas: variable availability. ¹⁸

Canada is home to over 43,000 solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, spanning residential, commercial, and industrial rooftops. These installations generate clean energy directly for homes and businesses, playing a significant role in advancing Canada’s renewable energy objectives. ¹⁹

From publicly available records, it seems like there are around 213 installed and projected solar farms in Canada. ²⁰

The off-grid solar market in Canada is experiencing significant growth. The current insights and projected trends are: ²¹

• Current Market Size (2024): Global off-grid market: $1.9 billion (2021). Canada’s off-grid installed capacity: 9.13 GW (2024).
• Projected Growth (2031): Global off-grid solar market: projected to reach $5.8 billion by 2031 (12.3% CAGR, 2022-2031). Canada: expected to reach 13.12 GW by 2029 (7.15% CAGR, 2024-2029).

Canada’s on-grid solar market is expected to reach 4.2 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2024, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.3% from 2024 to 2028. By 2028, the market demand is projected to increase to 4.60 billion kWh, maintaining a steady annual growth rate of 2.3% over the five-year period. ²²

The average monthly income for workers in the solar industry in Canada varies based on their roles and experience.

• Solar System Salary: In Canada, solar industry professionals can expect an average annual salary of $67,975, equivalent to $34.86 per hour. Starting salaries for entry-level positions begin at around $56,481, while seasoned experts can command up to $155,835 per year, reflecting a significant range of earning potential. ²³
• Solar Technician Salary: Canada’s average annual salary is approximately $52,000, equivalent to $26.67 per hour. In the solar industry, entry-level technicians typically begin at around $50,700 per year, with the potential to increase to $65,216 per year as they gain experience and move up the career ladder. ²⁴

The current population in Canada is estimated to be 39,107,046 people as of 2024. ²⁵

• Raw material costs: The costs of raw materials are one of the most significant expenses for solar panel manufacturers. The prices of raw materials like silicon, aluminum, and copper fluctuate depending on various factors like global supply and demand, geopolitical events, and economic conditions.
• Utilities: Electricity and other utility costs in Canada are $155 USD.
• Energy costs: The various stages involved in the production of solar panels, such as melting and shaping silicon, require high energy consumption.
• Labor costs: The cost of labor varies widely depending on the region and specific manufacturing company. The average labor cost per hour for solar panel manufacturing is around $25 to $31.

Here’s a summary of the energy infrastructure in Canada:

Electricity Generation ^{16 17}

• Total installed electricity generation capacity: around 154 GW (as of 2023).
• Primary sources: hydropower (61.5%), furnace oil (27%), coal (5.7%), wind (5.97%), renewable energy (5%), and nuclear (15%).
• Major power plants ²⁶: Bruce Nuclear Generating Station (Ontario), Robert-Bourassa Hydroelectric Power Station (Quebec), Churchill Falls Hydroelectric Power Station (Newfoundland and Labrador), Darlington Nuclear Generating Station (Ontario), Pickering Nuclear Generating Station (Ontario), Gordon M. Shrum Hydroelectric Power Station (British Columbia), Mica Hydroelectric Power Station (British Columbia), La Grande-4 Hydroelectric Power Station (Quebec), La Grande-3 Hydroelectric Power Station (Quebec), Revelstoke Hydroelectric Power Station (British Columbia).

Transmission and distribution

• BC Hydro is the dominant electrical utility in British Columbia.
• EPCOR UTILITIES INC. Operates and manages electrical, gas, and water networks in Canada and the US.
• WAJAX Canada-wide services for power systems, equipment, and industrial products, specializing in efficient transmission and distribution solutions.

Renewable Energy

• Solar PV: Growing from 26 MW (2007) to 6,452 MW (2022), a 248x increase in 15 years.
• Wind energy capacity grows 8x from 1,846 MW (2007) to 15,132 MW (2022).
• Hydropower: Canada’s 609 hydroelectric facilities: 596 with ≥1 MW capacity, 13 with <1 MW capacity. ²⁷

Energy Access

Canada has made significant progress in providing electricity access to its population. As of the most recent data, 100% of the population has access to electricity.

Energy Imports

• Canada imports 2.7 million MWh from the U.S., slightly outpacing its 2.6 million MWh exports.
• February 2024: imports up 124.1% from average, exports down 44.8%. ²⁸

Here’s a summary of the key regulations surrounding solar panel production in Canada:

Renewable Energy Policy:

The development of renewable energy projects in Canada is subject to various regulatory requirements, including environmental assessments for new or modified facilities, and a range of permits, licenses, and authorizations addressing environmental, land use, safety, and other regulated aspects. Additionally, regulators must ensure that adequate consultation and accommodation measures have been taken to address potential impacts on the Aboriginal and treaty rights of Indigenous groups, as protected under Canada’s Constitution, and that these rights are respected throughout the project lifecycle. ²⁹

Certification ³⁰

The major certifications for solar panels in Canada include the following:

• Canadian Standards Association (CSA)Certification: CSA Group, a global leader in safety, social responsibility, and sustainability, verifies product compliance with relevant standards through its trusted certification marks. Among these standards is CSA C61215, which ensures the quality and performance of terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules.
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL)Certification: UL, a renowned US-based safety certification company with global recognition, has established a widely accepted set of standards for solar panels, including in Canada. Specifically, UL 1703 serves as the benchmark for flat-plate photovoltaic panels and modules, ensuring their safety and performance.
• IECCertification: The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a global authority that develops and publishes international standards for electrical, electronic, and related technologies. IEC certifications, such as IEC 61215 for crystalline silicon PV modules and IEC 61730 for safety qualification, are highly regarded and widely recognized in Canada, ensuring compliance with global best practice.
• Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) NRCan lends its support to the CanSIA Solar Installer Certification program, ensuring that certified installers have received comprehensive training in solar panel installation, providing consumers with added confidence. Additionally, NRCan administers the Eco Energy Efficiency for Renewable Power program, offering financial incentives to encourage the production of clean electricity

Quality Standards and Testing

• Canadian Solar upholds rigorous international standards, including ISO IEC 17024, IEC 61215, and IEC 61730, demonstrating its dedication to excellence. This commitment to quality is integrated throughout the entire production process, featuring 411 meticulous quality control checks, spanning from raw materials to packaging and final pre-shipping inspection, ensuring unparalleled attention to detail.
• Testing Conditions: Solar panels are evaluated under standardized conditions (STC) to assess their performance. These conditions simulate a clear day with direct sunlight, specifying a temperature of 25°C, intense sunlight of 1000 W/m², and an air mass of 1.5 (AM1.5), which replicates the sun’s rays hitting a 37°-tilted surface at a 41.81° angle above the horizon. ³¹

Renewable Energy Development Authority

The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) is the primary regulatory body responsible for overseeing and promoting renewable energy projects, including solar power, in Canada.

• Federal Corporate Income Tax Rate Reduction: The Canadian government has introduced a temporary tax incentive for manufacturers of zero-emission technologies, reducing the federal corporate income tax rate from 15% to 7.5% for general corporate income and from 9% to 4.5% for small business income, providing a significant tax break for eligible companies. ³²
• Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit: Announced in the 2022 fall economic statement, a new tax credit aims to boost Canada’s competitiveness in the clean tech sector by incentivizing investments in solar, wind, and energy storage projects. This 30% tax credit supports qualifying investments in clean energy technologies, driving innovation and growth in the industry. ³³
• Canada Greener Homes Initiative ³⁴: Through the Canada Greener Homes Program, Canadian homeowners can receive grants of up to $5,000 to support energy-efficient upgrades, leading to lower energy bills and improved home efficiency. Furthermore, the program offers an additional $600 in funding to offset the costs of pre- and post-upgrade evaluations, ensuring a seamless and informed process.
• Canada Greener Homes Loan Program ³⁴: The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) administers a program offering interest-free loans of up to $40,000, repayable over 10 years, to support eligible home retrofits. These loans mirror the Greener Homes Grant, enabling homeowners to undertake similar energy-efficient upgrades without incurring immediate costs.
• Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Canada has launched a new incentive to boost renewable energy adoption, offering a 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar, wind, and energy storage projects completed by March 2034. This tax credit aims to stimulate investment in clean energy systems and accelerate Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. ³⁵
• Federal Solar Power Tax Breaks: Canadian residents can benefit from federal income tax credits covering a portion of the total cost of a photovoltaic (PV) system, resulting in lower tax liabilities or increased refunds. Furthermore, Canada provides a comprehensive range of over 78 clean energy incentive programs, supporting individuals and businesses in their transition to renewable energy solutions. ³⁶
• Provincial and municipal solar power incentives and rebates: some provinces in Canada are provided rebates and incentives such as:
• British Columbia provides a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) exemption for solar panels, encompassing all necessary installation equipment, including inverters, controllers, and wiring. Additionally, the Regional District of Nanaimo offers a rebate program for homeowners, providing $250 to $400 for the installation of solar PV, geothermal, thermal, or wind energy systems.
• Alberta has implemented micro-generation regulations, allowing for net-metering of photovoltaic (PV) systems up to 5 megawatts (MW). The city of Edmonton offers a solar rebate program, providing up to $4,000 (or $0.40/W) for installation costs, covering solar panels, inverters, cabling, and racking. However, lease payments, batteries, and administration costs are not eligible. Additionally, the town of Banff provides rebates of $0.75/W for solar systems between 2 kW and 20 kW for residents and commercial property owners. The Municipal Climate Change Action Centre also offers funding of up to 25% (max $300,000) for solar projects over 2 kW and under 1 MW, targeting community organizations and municipalities.
• Saskatchewan SaskPower provides a grant for solar or wind-powered pump systems, covering 50% of costs exceeding $500, up to a maximum of $500. This funding supports the purchase and installation of solar systems for farm livestock watering facilities, helping agricultural customers harness renewable energy.
• Yukon The Good Energy Yukon program is a solar incentive that reduces the expenses of installing renewable energy systems on residential property.
• Northwest Territories: The Government of Northwest Territories (NWT) and the Arctic Energy Alliance have partnered to offer solar incentives for residents, First Nations communities, and businesses. Through their rebate program, eligible participants can receive up to 50% of the total cost, capped at $50,000. Additionally, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations may be eligible for funding covering up to 50% of the total cost, also capped at $50,000.
• Toronto Through the Home Energy Loan Program, eligible homeowners can receive a loan of up to $1,000 to support the installation of a solar PV system. This financing option covers the costs of energy-efficient upgrades, featuring competitive interest rates starting at just 2%.
• Canadian Renewable Conservation Expense (CRCE): Businesses can deduct clean energy startup costs from their taxable income, supporting investments in sustainable energy solutions.
• Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance (CCA): Commercial renewable energy producers can significantly lower their taxable income through the enhanced Capital Cost Allowance (CCA). This incentive enables a full 100% write-off of eligible property costs in the first year, with the benefit gradually phasing out over time. ³²

Research and Development ³⁷

• CanmetENERGY plays a pivotal role in advancing Canada’s energy landscape by coordinating research initiatives, contributing to global photovoltaic standardization efforts through international committee participation, and generating valuable resources to enhance capacity-building and knowledge sharing across the country.
• CanmetENERGY fosters strategic partnerships with industry leaders, academic research groups, and government agencies, leveraging collaborative efforts through joint projects, co-developed software, and training resources. By sharing expertise and knowledge, they aim to inform decision-making and drive the adoption of solar energy solutions in Canada.

Skill Development Programs ³⁷

• International Collaboration on Solar PV Electricity Forecasting: Working with Global Partners to Improve Dolar PV Forecasting.
• Representing Canada in the International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme: contributing to international research and knowledge sharing.

Sarnia solar project: ³⁸

• Capacity: 80 MW
• Status: operational since 2015

Prairie Sunlight II solar project:

• Capacity: 24.5 MW
• Status: Operational since 2020

Elmsley Solar (Ontario):

• Capacity of 20 megawatts.
• Status: operational since 2010

Innisfail solar:

• Capacity: 25.3 MW.
• Status: began operation in July 2020.

Brooks Solar II: Alberta, Canada

• Capacity: 27 MW
• Status: Operating since 2022

Brooks Solar Farm II: Alberta

• Capacity: 400 MW
• Status: operational since November 2022

Enchant Solar Project: Clydesdale Solar (Alberta)

• Capacity: 75 MW
• Status: began operation in December 2022.

Vauxhall Solar (Alberta):

• Capacity: 60 megawatt (MW) solar facility.
• The project is expectedto be completed in one phase, with commercialoperations commencingin late2025and continuing over the next 30 years and beyond.

Dunmore Solar Project (Alberta):

• Capacity: 216 MW
• Status: under construction, operational by 2025

Airport City Solar (Alberta):

• Capacity: 120 MW
• Status: Under construction

Travers Solar Project (Alberta):

• Capacity is expected to be 465 megawatts AC and 691 megawatts DC.
• Status: under construction.

Vulcan 255S DER Solar PV Park:

• According to Global Data, it is currently under construction.
• It is planned for Alberta, Canada.
• The project is expected to be commissioned in June 2024.

Aira Solar Project (Alberta):

• Capacity: 450 MW solar facility.
• Approvals were received by the Alberta Utilities Commission in March 2024. The estimated cost for this project is $700 million, and it is scheduled for completion by 2025. ³⁹

Scotford Solar Project: 

• Capacity of 81 MW.
• currently under construction to support their goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. ⁴⁰

The Saddlebrook Solar Project has a capacity of 101 MW. ⁴⁰

XOLAR INC. Offers a comprehensive, turnkey solution for both residential and commercial clients, handling every aspect of solar panel projects, from design to installation. Additionally, they help clients reduce operating costs by implementing tailored solar energy solutions, including customizable off-grid systems designed to meet diverse needs, ranging from small cottages to large industrial facilities. ⁴¹

Arborus Consulting excels in delivering expert energy analysis, design engineering, and consulting services for high-performance buildings, with a diverse portfolio that includes solar installations in national parks and remote schools, as well as utility-scale solar development experience. Their extensive energy modeling expertise encompasses over 700 simulations, verifications, and technical assistance projects, solidifying their position as a trusted authority in the field.

AMP Solar Group: Headquartered in Ontario, Amp Solar Group is a pioneering company that specializes in developing adaptable, sustainable energy infrastructure. Leveraging cutting-edge, proprietary risk management technologies, they deliver cost-effective, clean solar energy solutions that ensure reliability, security, and peace of mind for their customers.

Azgard Solar offers a comprehensive suite of solar solutions, featuring top-quality solar panels, racking, and inverters, all bundled into a seamless, turn-key package. Their flagship service is the self-installation solar option, a market-leading solution that combines exceptional affordability with maximum energy generation (and manual adjustability). Additionally, Azgard provides expert services spanning design, installation, operations, and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free solar experience

Solar Krafte Dedicated to achieving grid-parity solar power, this company strives to make solar energy costs equivalent to or even lower than traditional fossil fuel-based electricity. They design and build eco-friendly solar farms with intelligence, prioritizing scalability and cost-efficiency. As a result, their projects yield electricity prices that significantly undercut carbon-intensive generation, both currently and in the long term. ⁴²

Bendygo’s With expertise in tailored solar solutions, the company specializes in designing and installing customized solar power systems for commercial, residential, and agricultural clients. They offer end-to-end project management, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to FIT contract negotiation and beyond. Their comprehensive services encompass design, engineering, procurement, construction, and application, as well as financing, development, operation, and maintenance of solar power projects on both land and rooftop installations.

Canadian Solar as one of the world’s leading solar panel manufacturers, Canadian Solar has achieved a remarkable milestone of shipping over 32 GW of photovoltaic (PV) products. What sets them apart is their unique value proposition: delivering top-quality solar panels at competitive prices, outpacing most manufacturers in the industry. Their diverse product lineup features innovative solutions like shingle mono modules (up to 420 W) and bifacial poly PERC modules (up to 430 W), catering to various customer needs. ⁴³