FAQs

What is a solar panel?

A solar panel is a device made up of photovoltaic cells. These photovoltaic cells contain layers (often made of Silicon, Boron, and Phosphorous) that absorb the sun’s energy, causing the silicon atoms to lose their electrons. These different layers then create an electric field (similar to how a battery works) that directs the electrons out of the cells - creating electricity.

How do I save with solar?

The average PV System we install takes anywhere from 11-14 years to pay off. With our 25-year warranty, that means you may receive up to 10 years of free electricity. Furthermore, the federal government has released the Canada Greener Homes Grant, which offers homeowners up to $5000 off their PV System. Click here for more information.

What is net metering?

Your PV System’s electrical production covers the loads in your home during the day, however, it may sometimes produce more electricity than your home is using. This excess electricity can be sent out into the grid in return for Net Metering Credits. For every 1 kWh of electricity you send into the grid, you can then pull back exactly 1 kWh to use at a later time (usually when your PV System is no longer able to cover your home’s electrical loads).

What is the Canada Greener Homes Grant?

The Canada Greener Homes Grant is a grant that has just been released by the government, offering homeowners up to $5000.00 per household for home energy retrofits. This includes up to $1000.00 for every kW of solar you install (up to $5000.00). To see if you are eligible for these savings click here.

What sort of maintenance is required for a PV System?

Photovoltaic panels generate electricity without any moving components. This significantly reduces the number of possible failure points in the system. Therefore, they require little-to-no maintenance throughout their 25-40 year lifespan. If a panel does fail, you can relax knowing you will be covered under High Tide Energy’s 25-year warranty.

The photovoltaic modules, or panels, may require periodic washing to remove soiling caused by pollen, salt, pitch, or other environmental factors. Washing of the solar modules can be completed using distilled water and a squeegee, or any mild environmentally-friendly dish soap and a soft-bristled brush.

Does solar only work when the sun is out?

Solar panels will generate electricity as long as some light penetrates their surface. However, the output is reduced in the winter due to the minimal peak sun hours offered throughout the day. During a cloudy day, your system will lose anywhere from 5%-75% of its efficiency depending on the available irradiance (energy per square meter) offered by the sun. Other factors can also temporarily decrease your system’s efficiency, such as snow or fallen leaves.

What happens in the event of a power outage?

In the event of a power outage, your system will be disconnected from the grid. This is to ensure that BC Hydro’s workers will not be affected by any back feed from your system.

One way to keep your system online is through the installation of a Tesla Powerwall or Enphase battery storage system. These systems are able to disconnect your household from the grid and then grid-form to start up your PV system again. This means you can continue to power your home with the solar energy you produce, even when the grid is down.