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PV Frequently Asked Questions
What is PV?
"PV" stands for "photovoltaic", which means electricity (voltaic) from light (photo). PV panels come in various shapes, sizes, and types, but all are based on technology that converts light energy into electricity.
What are the benefits of purchasing through the CREW SIDE program?
The process of researching technologies and getting information from many different vendors has already been done by the CREW SIDE team allowing for the most hassle free purchasing experience for the customer. Click here for the CREW SIDE information sheet.
How much electricity will be produced by an average PV system?
Approximately 1100 – 1200 kilowatt hours per year will be produced for an average 1kW PV solar system in Southern Ontario. For example an actual 3kW PV solar system that has been operating on a home in Waterloo since 2005 has produced an average of 3487 kilowatt hours per year.
What are the benefits for the environment?
An average 3kW PV system will reduce a home's carbon footprint by 3.5 tons per year for the 35-40 year lifespan of the solar panels.
How much does a PV system cost?
The approximate costs for PV systems are as follows:
1kw = $8,000 to $13,000
2kw = $16,000 to $21,000
3kw = $24,000 to $30,000
How does Ontario's new "feed in tariff" program work?
The Ontario government's new "feed in tariff" program pays the home owner a guaranteed 80.2 cents per kilowatt hour of solar electricity produced throughout the 20 year contract. The home owner will only pay the going rate of approximately 11-13 cents per kilowatt hour for the electricity he/she consumes, depending on your utility.
How much revenue will be generated for the homeowner?
A 1kW system producing 1200 kilowatt hours of electricity a year will generate $960 per year and a 3kW system will generate $2890. The payback period for a 1kW system is approximately 14 years and for a 3kW installation it is as short as 11 years, before considering any tax advantages (see the "Costs and Incentives" page [link here]). A return on investment of 7.5% to 10% per year will be realized under the new "feed in tariff" program. Finally, the panels will continue to generate electricity (and net-metered savings) for the home owner for 15 to 20 years after the 20 year "feed in tariff" contract has expired.
How much roof space is required?
Approximately 75 square feet is needed for a 1kW installation.
What if my roof does not face directly south?
A roof orientation from south-east to south-west will not see a significant decline in solar electricity production (approx. 5%). There will be more of a reduction in power generation for east and west orientations (approx. 25%).
What are the maintenance requirements?
There is almost no maintenance required for a rooftop PV solar system. Rain will keep the panels clean and there are no moving parts to break down. Snow in the winter will melt faster on solar panels than on most roofs, and will have a limited effect in any case (most of the electricity generated is in the longer summer days).
