If you’ve been researching solar in Halifax or anywhere in Nova Scotia, you’ve probably come across mentions of the SolarHomes rebate and the Canada Greener Homes Grant. Here’s the big update: both programs are now closed to new applicants.
That doesn’t mean help for solar is gone. In fact, 2025 is a turning point. Homeowners still have zero-interest loans, PACE financing, and net-metering credits that make going solar more affordable and impactful than ever.
Let’s break down what’s ended, what’s still available, and how Nova Scotians can make the most of solar today.
Canada Greener Homes Grant: Ended February 2024
- Provided up to $5,000 in retrofit grants + $600 for energy assessments.
- Closed to new applicants on Feb 5, 2024.
- Existing participants must:
- Complete retrofits by Nov 30, 2025.
- Submit final assessments by Dec 31, 2025.
- Complete retrofits by Nov 30, 2025.
SolarHomes Program: Closed as of April 2025
- Offered rebates of $0.30/W (up to $3,000) on solar PV systems.
- Closed to new homeowners on April 17, 2025.
- Only registered non-profits and charities can now apply.
- Approved projects must be installed and completed by March 31, 2026.
- Program highlights: helped over 6,000 households cut energy bills, reduce emissions by 32,000+ tonnes of CO₂, and save $12.5M per year in electricity costs.
What’s Still Available in 2025
1. Canada Greener Homes Loan
- Up to $40,000, 0% interest, repayable over 10 years.
- Covers solar PV systems, batteries, and other retrofits.
- Must apply before starting work.
- New funding was added in 2025 to keep the program open, but demand is high.
2. PACE Financing (Solar City – Halifax)
- Property Assessed Clean Energy loan administered by HRM.
- Low-interest financing (3–6%) repaid via your property tax bill.
- Loan stays with the property if you sell your home.
- Example: A Halifax family financed a 7 kW system with quarterly payments of about $183, mostly offset by solar credits.
3. Net-Metering Credits
- Systems up to 27 kW are eligible.
- 1:1 retail credit for every excess kWh sent to the grid.
- Credits roll forward for 12 months, then reset.
- A key way to reduce (or even eliminate) your Nova Scotia Power bill.
4. Business & Commercial Incentives
- 30% Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit.
- 15% Clean Economy Tax Credit for non-profits and municipalities.
- Full depreciation or deduction options through CCA and CRCE.
So… Is Solar Still Worth It in Nova Scotia?
Yes — and here’s why:
- Electricity costs keep rising (Nova Scotians pay ~18¢/kWh).
- Halifax’s solar potential is strong: each 1 kW produces ~1,073 kWh/year.
- With financing + net-metering, your monthly solar payment can replace your power bill instead of adding to it.
Even without rebates, solar in Nova Scotia remains one of the smartest long-term investments for homeowners.
Key Takeaways for Homeowners
- No more direct rebates: SolarHomes and Greener Homes Grant are closed.
- Loans and financing lead the way: 0% Greener Homes Loan and Solar City PACE program make solar accessible.
- Net-metering maximizes returns: Every excess kWh cuts your bill.
- Businesses benefit from tax credits: Commercial solar has powerful incentives.
Ready to Explore Your Solar Options?
At Solar Ascent, we’ve helped nearly 500 Nova Scotia families take control of their power bills. Even with rebates gone, the right financing plan can let you go solar with $0 down and payments that simply replace your rising power bill.
👉 Book your free solar assessment today — and see how solar can work for your home in 2025.
