Solar panels — photovoltaic (PV) panels — convert sunlight into electricity that can power your home, charge a battery, or be sold back to the grid for income.
As sunlight makes direct or diffused contact with a panel's surface, photovoltaic cells inside convert the light into direct current (DC). An inverter converts that DC into the alternating current (AC) your home runs on; surplus flows to a battery or out to the grid.
Output depends on system size, region, shading, roof orientation and panel quality. The average Canadian household uses about 11,000 kWh of electricity a year, and a well-placed Canadian system commonly produces 1,000–1,330 kWh per installed kW — Saskatchewan and Alberta lead the country.
System prices have fallen dramatically over the past decade; rebates, financing and net-metering income shorten payback further. Systems typically produce for 25–35+ years with minimal maintenance — periodic inspections keep them safe and efficient.
Panels are installed at an angle so snow slides off, they generate heat while producing, and cold air actually improves efficiency. Even heavily overcast days deliver roughly 30% of maximum output from diffused light.
The sunlight that hits Earth's surface in 90 minutes carries enough energy to meet the world's demand for an entire year.
Cut monthly bills and shield yourself from rising rates for decades.
Generating from sunlight produces no greenhouse gases.
Store or sell surplus and rely less on the grid.
