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During summer, excess generation can be worth 33 cents per kilowatt-hour.
Photo Credit: iStock
Liz and John Ayer’s rooftop panels do more than cut household electricity use. Their 10-panel system in Alberta helps power a plug-in hybrid throughout the year and can also earn credits when the home produces more electricity than it needs.
Before adding solar, the Calgary homeowners altered their house to make better use of sunlight. In late 2024, they installed 10 panels on the back roof, aimed between south and southwest, and, as Canada’s National Observer reported, the system is already showing returns.
Alberta’s rules allow homeowners with grid-connected solar to enroll as micro-generators and receive net-metering credits for surplus electricity sent to the grid. In June, that meant a $49.50 microgeneration credit on the Ayers’ utility bill.
Their solar project cost about $13,000 overall, with a $5,600 grant from the federal Canada Greener Homes Program — now discontinued — helping reduce the expense.
Their rooftop system is reducing electricity expenses while also helping supply power for a plug-in hybrid in every season.
During summer, excess generation can be worth 33 cents per kilowatt-hour. In winter, when production is lower, electricity bought from the utility is usually about eight cents per kilowatt-hour.
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That spread can substantially improve the value of a residential solar system, especially for households that use more electricity for needs such as vehicle charging.
Before moving ahead, the Ayer family used a home assessment that reviewed earlier electricity bills and the property’s existing electrical infrastructure. That process helped identify a system size suited to their home and energy use.
EnergySage offers free tools that let homeowners compare competitive bids from local installers without giving up their contact information unless they decide to move forward with one. That can make it easier to understand pricing, equipment options, and expected savings before committing.
Even though the Canada Greener Homes grant is no longer available, homeowners may still find value in state, provincial, utility, or local incentives, along with savings from reducing the amount of electricity they buy. In places with net metering or microgeneration programs, the ability to earn bill credits can further shorten the payback period.
Firefly Solar co-founder Chris Anderson said a typical rooftop system delivers a “three-to-one payback.”
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© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.

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