When most people think of solar panels, they picture bright, sunny places like California or Arizona. But what about places with less predictable weather, like Halifax? The good news is that solar energy is still a smart investment, even in less sunny climates. Let’s unpack why.
Solar Panels Work in All Light Conditions
Solar panels don’t need blazing sunshine to produce electricity. They generate power from daylight, not direct sunlight. While bright, sunny days increase output, even on overcast days, solar panels capture diffused sunlight and generate electricity. In fact, Germany—a global leader in solar energy—has far fewer sunny days than Halifax and still reaps the rewards of solar power!
Energy Costs Are Rising
No shocker, but electricity rates in Nova Scotia have been rising, and they’re unlikely to stop climbing anytime soon. Investing in solar means protecting yourself from future rate hikes by generating your power. Over time, the savings on your electricity bills can add up significantly, making solar a cost-effective choice.
Government Incentives Make Solar Affordable
Did you know that Nova Scotia offers incentives to help homeowners and businesses switch to solar? Local rebates can reduce the upfront installation cost, shortening the payback period and making solar more accessible. Explore Efficiency Nova Scotia’s SolarHomes program. The SolarHomes program helps NS homeowners by offering rebates on approved solar PV systems up to 10kW in size. That works out to be $0.30/Watt installed DC capacity. The maximum rebate is $3,000.
Boost Your Property Value
Homes with solar panels are increasingly in demand. A study by the Appraisal Institute of Canada found that solar installations can increase property values, especially as buyers look for energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes. In a competitive real estate market like Halifax, going solar “is a good thing.”
Solar Is a Year-Round Solution
While Halifax winters can be long, solar panels are designed to function even in snowy conditions. Panels are typically installed at an angle, allowing snow to slide off and ensuring they remain exposed to daylight. Plus, the cold actually increases panel efficiency, meaning they perform better in cooler temperatures. We wrote a blog post about solar and Nova Scotia winters.
Solar Technology Is More Affordable and Efficient Than Ever
Advances in solar technology have made panels more efficient and durable, meaning you get more energy from less sunlight. Coupled with falling prices for equipment and installation, there’s never been a better time to invest in solar power.
Don’t Wait for the Perfect Weather to Go Solar
Halifax may not be the sunniest spot in Canada, but solar energy still shines here. With the right technology, government support, and rising energy costs, going solar makes both environmental and financial sense.
Ready to harness the power of the sun? Perfect, let’s start the conversation on how solar can work for your home or business—even in the heart of the Maritimes! ♥️
Solar Ascent, we make solar simple.
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