FAQ
Why Should I Be Interested In Solar Now?
Ontario’s new Green Energy Act dramatically increases investment in renewable energy projects with an aim to making Ontario the leading green economy in North America. New investments total $4 billion.
What is the Feed-In Tariff?
Ontario’s Green Energy Act includes a program through the Ontario Power Authority to pay individuals, business and industry up to $0.80 per kilowatt hour of electricity produced by a solar panel system generating power that feeds back in to the local grid. The province will enter into 20 year guaranteed-rate contracts with standardized rules and prices that are dramatically higher than normal rates in order to spur local renewable energy growth and reward local energy production.
Why a Feed-In Tariff?
The province of Ontario wants to encourage smart, sustainable, local renewable energy solutions. It believes solar energy is key to delivering clean energy in Ontario. It recognizes the relative expense of solar installation and is now committed to providing a long-term sound rate of return guaranteed by the province for 20 years. The program is just one of many the government is introducing to encourage a smarter power grid across the province.
Who is eligible?
Any person or business in any area of Ontario can install a solar array system and participate in this program. Solar systems require about 100 square feet of area per kilowatt, and systems can be installed on any rooftop or under/unused piece of land. Contracts can be applied through direct ownership or through leasing options and ownership can change without affecting the specific contract.
When does the program start?
The Fit program launched in October 2009. A full ramp-up is scheduled for November 30, 2009.
How long will the application process take?
The FIT program has identified a targeted intent for a 60-day application turnaround in the terms and conditions of the program currently posted.
Are their rebates or tax breaks available for solar installation?
The Canada Revenue Agency has an applicable Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) deduction in which the cost of depreciable assets acquired for use in business can be claimed over a prescribed number of years. Also, there are various other rebates offered through such incentives as the ecoEnergy program.
I have heard of RESOP but how does the new FIT program relate to the RESOP program?
The FIT program replaces the previous RESOP program administered by the Government of Ontario that had offered an enhanced rate of return for solar energy. The new FIT program is more robust, more streamlined and a greatly enhanced kind of offering, and now almost doubles the old RESOP rates of return previously offered.
How much does solar cost and what income will it generate as part of the Feed-In Tariff program?
Solar systems can be installed for under $9/watt or $9000 per kilowatt. The exact cost depends on the roof or ground area, the efficiency of the solar panels, the specific FIT rate applied and the overall size of the system – larger systems are cheaper per kilowatt than smaller ones. The exact income generation will depend on similar factors but can represent approximately a 10% return on investment. On an unshaded south facing roof, each kilowatt of solar installed can generate between 1000 and 1300 kilowatt hours. A 100 kW system could conservatively generate more than $80,000 annually. A 250 kW system could generate more than $200,000 annually etc. Contact us for specific sample rates and revenue.
How long do they last?
Solar electric panels have a 25 year warranty. They commonly last many years more than that. The system will likely continue to produce electricity long after the 20 year Feed-In Tariff contract has been completed, generating power and profit for you for many more years.
Why choose Advanced Solar Investments?
ASI provides full-inclusive, full-utility, full-service custom systems with no hidden costs. We can provide the best price for product because we are independent not franchised to one single manufacturer. We provide start to finish FIT program application process assistance to our clients. When investing in equipment for a 20 year power production contract, you want to be sure to choose a company that you can trust.
How do I know what my system is producing?
The system meter displays the cumulative energy produced by the solar array. All participants in the FIT program possess a second utility meter that logs and records the kilowatt hours of energy produced by the solar system and being fed back into the grid. Your utility provides payment directly to you based on your FIT contract.
How do the systems attach to my roof?
ASI designs a custom proprietary racking system for each rooftop installation designed for the specific needs of the client.
What do I need to start?
First you need access to a suitable location for solar panel placement – a flat or south facing roof slope, unused or underused land are all ideal. Contact us to discuss your situation and the ideal possible package for you.
