- Why Invest in Solar Power and Battery Storage?
- What Does Solar and Battery Storage Actually Cost in Canada?
- What Should You Look for When Choosing Your System?
- Your Best Option for Solar + Battery Storage
- How Do Provincial Programmes Affect Your System?
- How Do You Figure Out the Right System Size?
- Do Solar and Battery Systems Work in Canadian Winters?
- What's the Installation Process Like?
- Time to Get Your Solar Panel and Battery System
- Frequently Asked Questions About Solar And Battery System
Which Solar + Battery Bundle is Right for You? A Complete Buyer's Guide
- Why Invest in Solar Power and Battery Storage?
- What Does Solar and Battery Storage Actually Cost in Canada?
- What Should You Look for When Choosing Your System?
- Your Best Option for Solar + Battery Storage
- How Do Provincial Programmes Affect Your System?
- How Do You Figure Out the Right System Size?
- Do Solar and Battery Systems Work in Canadian Winters?
- What's the Installation Process Like?
- Time to Get Your Solar Panel and Battery System
- Frequently Asked Questions About Solar And Battery System
If you've been thinking about energy independence, you're not alone. More Canadians are installing home solar and battery systems to protect against rising rates and grid failures. Provincial programmes are offering serious money—up to $10,000 in rebates—to help you make the switch to solar and battery storage. Here's how to find the right bundle for your needs, budget, and climate.
Why Invest in Solar Power and Battery Storage?
Solar power and battery storage systems give Canadian homeowners something that's hard to put a price on: control over their own energy. These aren't just eco-friendly upgrades—they solve real problems you're probably dealing with right now, from climbing electricity bills to worrying about the next power outage.
Here's what you get:
Power When the Grid Goes Down: When ice storms or extreme weather knock out electricity, your home solar and battery system keeps your fridge, furnace, and lights running. No more sitting in the dark or worrying about burst pipes.
Protection from Rising Electricity Costs: Electricity rates keep going up across Canada, and that's not changing anytime soon. Generating your own power means you're not at the mercy of utility rate increases.
Save Money with Smart Timing: In Ontario and other provinces with time-of-use rates, you pay more for electricity during peak hours. Batteries let you store cheap solar power from the afternoon and use it during expensive evening hours instead of buying from the grid.
Get Credits for Extra Power: Most provinces have net metering programmes that give you credits when you send excess solar power back to the grid. It's like having the utility store your extra energy for free.
Good for the Planet and Your Property Value: You'll slash your carbon footprint while making your home worth more. Homes with solar systems sell faster and for higher prices.
The setup is straightforward: your solar panels make electricity during sunny days, and instead of losing that power or sending it all to the grid, your battery saves it for later. That's the big difference from solar-only systems—with solar and battery storage, you actually use your solar power at night when you need it most. And yes, these systems work great in Canadian winters. Modern technology handles cold temperatures and lower sun angles without breaking a sweat.
What Does Solar and Battery Storage Actually Cost in Canada?
The price tag on a solar and battery storage system can look intimidating at first, but costs have dropped quite a bit in recent years. Plus, Canadian rebates can shave thousands off what you'll actually pay out of pocket.
Here's the real pricing breakdown:
| Component | Cost Range (CAD) | Details |
| Solar Panels (5-8 kW) | $17,500 - $25,000 | $2.50-$3.50 per watt installed |
| Battery Storage | $8,000 - $20,000 | $800-$1,500 per kWh of capacity |
| Complete Bundle | $25,000 - $45,000 | Before rebates; saves on labour & permitting |
Buying everything together saves you money—you're paying one installation crew, dealing with permits once, and getting equipment that's designed to work as a matched set.
Federal programmes worth knowing about:
Canada Greener Homes Loan: This programme provided up to $40,000 in interest-free financing, but it stopped accepting new applications on October 1, 2025. If you already applied before that date, you can still access the funding.
Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit: Business owners can claim 30% back on eligible clean tech investments. This runs through 2034.
Provincial rebates (where you can save big):
| Province | Rebate Amount | Programme |
| British Columbia | Up to $10,000 ($5,000 solar + $5,000 battery) | BC Hydro |
| Ontario | Up to $10,000 ($5,000 solar + $5,000 battery) | Home Renovation Savings Programme |
| Nova Scotia | Up to $3,000 + battery incentives | SolarHomes Programme |
| Manitoba | Up to $5,000 ($500 per kW) | Efficiency Manitoba |
| Alberta | Varies by municipality | Local programmes (Banff, Medicine Hat) |
Most Canadian homeowners see their investment pay for itself in 10-15 years, and that's accounting for current electricity rates. Systems last 25 years or more, so you're looking at over a decade of essentially free power after breaking even. When you factor in that electricity rates keep climbing year after year, your savings grow over time. Add provincial rebates to the equation, and your payback period could be considerably shorter.
What Should You Look for When Choosing Your System?
Picking the right solar and battery storage setup means matching the technology to your actual needs. Here are the factors that matter most.
Energy Storage Capacity
Start by checking how much power you use. The average Canadian home uses 25-30 kWh per day, but yours might be different. Look at a year of electricity bills to see your real usage.
Then decide what you need during outages. A 10-15 kWh battery covers essentials—fridge, lights, internet, and maybe a TV. For whole-home backup including heating and all appliances, you need 25+ kWh. Canadian winters matter here since heating systems use a lot of power and shorter days mean less solar charging.
Not every battery needs to be bolted to your basement wall. The EcoFlow DELTA 3 Ultra Plus + 4 × 125W Solar Panel bundle gives you a complete solar and battery solution right out of the box. With 3072Wh (3.072 kWh) base capacity expandable up to 11kWh, it plugs directly into your home circuits but remains portable for cottage trips or RV adventures. The bundle includes four 125W solar panels and accepts up to 1600W solar input, delivering 3600-7200W of output—enough for heavy-duty appliances like your dryer or well pump.
Battery Chemistry & Technology
Most home solar and battery systems in Canada use lithium-ion batteries. You'll see two types: LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) and NMC (nickel manganese cobalt). LiFePO4 batteries last longer—typically 6,000-10,000 charge cycles—while NMC batteries are more compact.
Modern lithium batteries have built-in heating that keeps them working in cold weather. They automatically warm up when temperatures drop, so they perform well during Canadian winters. You'll get back 90-95% of the energy you store, which means very little waste.
Power Output
Storage capacity is how long your battery lasts. Power output is how much you can run at once—they're different things.
Continuous power is what your battery delivers steadily. Peak power handles short bursts when appliances start up. A battery might offer 5 kW continuous but 10 kW peak. For winter backup, make sure your continuous rating covers your heating system plus other essentials running at the same time.
Warranty & Lifespan
Most batteries come with 10-15 year warranties. The fine print usually guarantees 60-80% of original capacity at the end—that's normal battery aging.
Check if the warranty covers cold-weather use. Some manufacturers void coverage for unheated spaces, while others design for garage or outdoor installation in Canadian climates. Know what's covered before you buy.
Your Best Option for Solar + Battery Storage
There's no single "best" system for everyone—the right choice depends on your budget, energy needs, and which provincial rebates you can access. Here's a complete solar panel and battery bundle that stands out for its ready-to-use design and value in the Canadian market.
What You Get
The EcoFlow DELTA 3 Ultra Plus + 4 × 125W Solar Panel bundle is a complete solar charging solution in one package. Unlike systems where you buy components separately, this bundle includes everything you need: the DELTA 3 Ultra Plus portable power station (3072Wh capacity) plus four 125W solar panels. It's portable but powerful enough to run your whole home, and you can expand capacity up to 11kWh with additional batteries.
Power Output That Handles Real Loads
The DELTA 3 Ultra Plus delivers 3600W continuously with 7200W surge power—enough to run your fridge, lights, internet, TV, and even heavy appliances during an outage. With 11 total output ports including 5 AC outlets, 3 USB-C ports (one at 140W for fast charging), and dedicated RV/Anderson outputs, you can power multiple devices simultaneously.
Solar Charging Included
This is where the bundle shines: the four included 125W solar panels (500W total) charge the system in approximately 7.68 hours of sunlight. The system accepts up to 1600W solar input if you add more panels later. No searching for compatible panels or worrying about connections—everything works together right out of the box.
Beyond solar, you have flexibility:
Wall charging: 1800W input charges from 0-80% in just 91 minutes (full charge in 2 hours)
Generator charging: Up to 3200W input (0-80% in 53 minutes with compatible generator)
Car/alternator charging: Up to 1000W for charging on the road
Built to Last
The LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery chemistry gives you long-lasting performance with excellent cycle life. The system maintains 80% capacity capacity after years of daily use—significantly longer than cheaper battery types. The 5-year warranty (3+2 years) covers everything, giving you peace of mind.
The Portability Advantage
Here's what sets the DELTA 3 Ultra Plus apart: it integrates with your home circuits for backup power, but you can unplug it and take it anywhere. Use it at home during outages, then bring it to the cottage or RV. At 33.7kg, it's portable enough to move when needed but substantial enough to power your essential loads for extended periods.
Complete Solar Solution
Unlike battery-only systems where you need to source compatible solar panels separately, this bundle eliminates the guesswork. The included panels are matched to the system's specifications, and you're ready to generate clean solar power from day one. For Canadians wanting true energy independence without the complexity of piecing together components, this is solar and battery storage made simple.
Who Should Consider This
This system makes sense if you want a complete solar solution without buying panels separately, own a cottage that needs backup power, spend time RVing, or value the option to relocate your investment. It's also smart for anyone wanting portable power that can charge from the sun anywhere you go. The modular design means you can start with this bundle and expand capacity later as your needs grow.
Best for: Anyone wanting a complete solar + battery solution out of the box, cottage owners, RV enthusiasts, or homeowners who value portable backup power with included solar charging capability.
How Do Provincial Programmes Affect Your System?
Net metering rules and rebate programmes vary significantly across Canada, and these differences should influence your solar and battery storage decisions.
Net Metering by Province
Each province handles excess solar power differently:
Ontario: Monthly net metering with no credit rollover. Use it or lose it each month, so size your system carefully to match your actual consumption.
British Columbia: Annual net metering through BC Hydro. Credits accumulate throughout the year, giving you flexibility between seasons.
Alberta: Available through select utilities. Check with your specific provider for programme details.
Nova Scotia: Net metering programmes are available. Contact Nova Scotia Power for current rates and terms.
Saskatchewan: Credits roll over indefinitely—the most generous policy in Canada for solar owners.
Manitoba: Uses a net-billing programme rather than traditional net metering. Different rate structure applies.
How This Affects Your System Size
In provinces where credits roll over (BC, Saskatchewan), you can install a larger system to handle future needs like EV charging. Your excess summer production banks credit for winter use.
In provinces without rollover (Ontario), match your system size closely to current consumption. Overproducing just gives free power to the utility. This is where battery storage becomes more valuable—you keep and use your excess solar power instead of giving it away.
Check Your Provincial Rebates
Rebate programmes have application deadlines and limited funding. Visit your provincial energy authority website for current programme status:
BC Hydro (British Columbia)
Home Renovation Savings Programme (Ontario)
Efficiency Manitoba
SolarNS (Nova Scotia)
Some programmes operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so don't wait too long once you've made your decision.
How Do You Figure Out the Right System Size?
Getting your solar power and battery storage system sized correctly matters more than most people realize. Too small and you won't have enough backup power. Too large and you've wasted money on capacity you'll never use.
1. Start With Your Actual Usage
Pull out 12 months of electricity bills and calculate your average daily consumption. Add up your total kWh used for the year, then divide by 365. Most Canadians use 25-30 kWh per day, but your number could be quite different. Look for seasonal patterns—your winter bills are probably higher than summer ones, especially if you heat with electricity.
Daily usage = Annual kWh ÷ 365
2. Think About Future Needs
Planning to buy an EV? That adds 10-15 kWh per day. Installing a heat pump? Factor in another 15-20 kWh daily in winter. Size your system for where you'll be in 3-5 years, not just today's needs.
3. Battery Sizing Made Simple
Here's a straightforward approach for your solar panel and battery system:
Essential backup battery = Daily kWh × 0.5
Whole-home backup battery = Daily kWh × 1.0
For example, if you use 30 kWh daily, a 15 kWh battery covers your essentials. A 30 kWh battery gives you full-home coverage.
4. How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?
Canadian winters mean reduced solar production—typically 20-40% of summer output depending on your location. Snow coverage can block panels for days after storms. Setting your panels at the right angle (30-50 degrees works well for most Canadian latitudes) helps with production and lets snow slide off easier.
Solar panels needed (kW) = Battery size (kWh) × 1.5 to 2.0
So a 10 kWh battery pairs well with 15-20 kW of solar panels. A 20 kWh battery works best with 30-40 kW of panels to maintain reliable year-round charging in Canadian weather.
Do Solar and Battery Systems Work in Canadian Winters?
Yes, they still work in the winter. Modern home solar and battery systems are designed to handle our climate, though proper installation makes a big difference.
Batteries Handle the Cold
Today's lithium batteries have built-in heating that turns on automatically when temperatures drop. Most work reliably from -20°C to +50°C, which covers almost any weather Canada gets. The heating uses a small amount of stored power but keeps the battery performing well even in extreme cold.
Solar Panels in Cold Weather
Solar panels actually produce more electricity in cold temperatures than in hot weather. A clear, cold February day generates more power than a hot August afternoon with the same amount of sunlight. Winter's real challenge isn't temperature—it's shorter days, lower sun angles, and snow blocking the panels after storms.
Where to Install Your Battery
Put your battery inside your house or in an insulated garage if you can. This cuts down on heating energy and helps the battery last longer. If you need to install outside, check that the system is rated for outdoor use in your climate.
Dealing With Snow
Mount solar panels at 35-45 degrees so snow slides off more easily than with flat installations. After big snowfalls, you might need to brush snow off with a soft broom, or just wait for the panels to warm up and clear themselves. Don't use anything sharp or pour hot water on them—you'll crack the glass.
Running Your Heat During Outages
Your home solar and battery system needs to power your furnace or heat pump during winter outages. Make sure your battery has enough capacity and power output to handle the startup surge when your heating kicks in, plus keep it running continuously. This is why getting the sizing right matters so much in Canada.
What's the Installation Process Like?
Installing a solar and battery storage system takes time and coordination. Here's what actually happens from decision to power-on.
Installation Timeline
| Phase | Duration | What Happens |
| Permitting & Approvals | 2-8 weeks | Building permits, utility applications, safety authority reviews |
| Physical Installation | 2-6 days | Battery installation (1-3 days), solar panel mounting (1-3 days) |
| Inspections | 1-2 weeks | Provincial electrical safety authority and utility interconnection |
| System Activation | 1 day | Final utility approval and system goes live |
The permitting process varies significantly by province and municipality. Some areas move quickly, others take months. Your installer should handle all the paperwork, but ask upfront how long they expect it to take in your area.
Inspections You'll Need
Every province requires electrical safety authority inspections before your system can operate. The inspector checks that everything meets code and is installed safely. You'll also need utility interconnection approval, which confirms your system won't cause problems with the grid. Don't skip these steps—they protect you and validate your warranties.
Timing Your Installation
Plan to install between spring and autumn if possible. Winter installations are harder—shorter days, cold weather, and snow all slow things down. Plus, you want your system running before winter to build up production history and understand how it performs.
Don't Miss Rebate Deadlines
Check your provincial rebate application deadlines before starting. Some programmes require pre-approval before installation begins. Others operate first-come, first-served with limited funding. Missing a deadline could cost you thousands in rebates.
Time to Get Your Solar Panel and Battery System
The right home solar and battery system is different for everyone, but the benefits are the same—lower bills, backup power, and protection from rate increases. With up to $10,000 in provincial rebates still on the table, the math makes sense for most Canadian homeowners. Contact three to four installers for quotes, compare their recommendations, and don't wait too long on those rebate applications. Your energy independence starts with that first call.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar And Battery System
Q1: If my house is older and has an old electrical panel, is it possible to build a solar and battery system?
Probably, but first you'll need to improve your panel. Older homes frequently have 100-amp service panels, but solar and battery systems usually require a 200-amp panel. To upgrade, budget an additional $2,000 to $4,000. This improvement increases the electrical capacity of your entire house and typically makes you eligible for the same rebate programs.
Q2: How do my battery and solar panels fare in a hailstorm?
Hail up to 25 mm (about the size of a golf ball) can strike solar panels quickly. Your home insurance covers them, and they adhere to Canadian safety regulations. Batteries are kept safe from hail by being stored indoors or in covered outdoor boxes. Both the manufacturer's guarantee and your installer's craftsmanship warranty cover repairs in the event that something breaks.
Q3: Can I use a solar and battery system in Canada to get totally off the grid?
Yes, but most people find it impractical. To withstand weeks of overcast winter weather, you would want a huge battery bank (50+ kWh) and a lot more solar panels. For extended periods without sunlight, backup generators would also be necessary. In order to reduce their expenses and provide backup during outages, the majority of Canadians maintain their grid connection.
Q4: On a cloudy winter day, how long does it take for solar panels to charge a dead battery?
Your solar panels only generate 10–25% of their typical power on a winter day with a lot of clouds. In these circumstances, a 10 kWh battery with 5 kW of panels may take 8–12 hours to fully charge, as opposed to 2-3 hours on a bright summer day. Because foggy days are a part of Canadian life, you need additional panel capacity.
Q5: If I simply have solar panels and no battery, can my system still function in the event of a power outage?
No. During outages, grid-tied solar systems automatically turn off for safety—they are unable to supply power to lines while repair workers are on the job. To keep your house running in the event of a grid outage, you'll need a battery system that can island. One of the primary justifications for adding batteries to solar arrays is this.
Q6: How frequently should I clean my solar panels?
Not at all. The majority of cleaning is done by rain, but if you live in a dusty environment or have substantially lower output, you may need to rinse them once or twice a year. Avoid using a power washer or climbing on your roof; instead, use a standard garden hose from the ground. Avoid cleaning during the winter months when the panels may crack due to frozen water. If you'd like to leave cleaning to someone else, several installers provide cleaning services.