More people in Ottawa are switching to solar power, and a big question keeps coming up: How much does it cost to install solar panels? The answer isn’t simple. There are two main costs—fixing or replacing the roof and adding the solar system. The good news? With some planning and the right info, the investment can pay off through lower bills, a boost in home value, and less money spent on energy over time.
Ontario leads the country in solar power. In fact, more than half of Canada’s solar energy comes from here. That makes Ottawa a smart place to go solar. With help from government programs and more solar systems popping up each year, now’s a great time to think about making the move.
Roofing and solar work can be pricey. No doubt about it. But over time, they can save you more than you spend. The trick is knowing what affects the cost and how to plan for it. Let’s take a closer look.
What to Know About Roof Costs Before You Go Solar
Before you get too excited about solar panels, take a moment to think about what they’ll sit on—your roof. If it’s worn out or not built to last, adding panels might cause more problems than it solves. It’s not just about getting panels up there. It’s about making sure the roof can handle them for the long haul.
Sometimes that means patching things up. Other times, it means a full replacement. Either way, the roof has to be solid before you add the weight of a solar panel system.
How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Ottawa?
Roof prices in Ottawa can change a lot depending on a few things. What type of roof you pick. How big the house is. What kind of shape your current roof is in. Here’s a rough idea of what people are paying:
- Asphalt Shingles (typical home): $15,000 to $20,000
- Steel Shingles: $23,000 to $27,000
- Standing Seam Metal Roof: $35,000 to $40,000
- Plywood Repair (if needed): $4,000 to $5,000
Some materials cost more upfront but hold up better over time. Metal roofs, for example, cost more but tend to last longer. They also work well with solar setups.
Asphalt shingles are easier on the budget at the start. But in a city like Ottawa—where winters are rough and temperatures bounce around—these shingles might not last as long.
At the end of the day, solar is a long-term move. So is a roof. Taking care of one helps protect the other.
What Solar Panels Really Cost in Ottawa
Once your roof is set, it’s time to put the solar panels up. But how much does that actually cost? Well, it depends. Things like how big your house is, how much power you use, and what kind of system you go with all affect the price.
So, what will you pay in Ottawa?
Let’s break it down.
Average Setup for a Home: $10,000–$20,000 (after rebates)
This price usually covers everything—panels, inverters, wires, and the hardware to hold it all in place. The final number depends on what kind of equipment you choose and how much electricity you want your PV systems to produce.
What Help Can You Get?
Luckily, there are energy efficiency programs that can bring down the overall cost of installing.
- Federal Loan: There’s a government loan that offers up to $40,000 with no interest. You pay it back over 10 years. It can go toward solar or other green home upgrades.
- Ontario Rebates: Ontario homeowners can access solar rebates and incentives through the Home Renovation Savings Program and the Canada Greener Homes Grant. These rebates can make the upfront costs easier to handle.
Adding these into the mix can lower how much you pay out of pocket.
How Soon Will You Start Saving?
That depends on your energy use and what your power bill looks like now. But here’s what most people see:
Monthly Savings: After going solar, most families save over $200 a month on electricity. That’s a big drop in bills.
Over the Years: After 20 to 30 years, those savings usually cover the full cost of the system—and then some.
Better for the Planet: Using solar cuts down on power from the grid. That means less pollution and a smaller carbon footprint.
Most people make their money back in 6 to 10 years. After that, it’s mostly just saving money and knowing your home is running a little cleaner.
Installing Your Roof and Solar Panels Together
If your roof’s getting old, it might be smart to think about more than just replacing it. Adding solar panels at the same time can save you money and time. Instead of doing one job now and another later, you knock them both out in one go.
Why It’s a Good Idea to Do Both Now
Doing the roof and solar together can make things easier and cheaper. Here’s how:
- One crew, one job. When you hire the same company for both, you might pay less. You’re not juggling different teams or timelines.
- Fewer people, fewer bills. One team means less labor and fewer hands on the job, which helps keep costs down.
- Skip the double work. If you put on solar panels now and replace the roof later, you’ll have to take them off and put them back on. That’s a lot of extra work. Doing both at once avoids all that.
How to Pay for It Without Stress
Paying for a roof and solar setup can feel like a lot. But you don’t have to cover it all at once. There are options to help:
- Roof loans: You can borrow money and pay it back over time. That way, you don’t need to empty your savings.
- Solar loans: These loans are made just for people adding solar. They help spread out the cost so it feels more doable.
At True Beacon, we help you figure it out step by step. No pressure. No rush. Just a clear path to getting your roof and solar done without the headache.
What Affects the Total Cost of Roof and Solar Installations
Putting on a new roof and adding solar panels doesn’t always cost the same. The total price depends on a few different things. Some are about how your roof is built, and others come down to what kind of choices you make. Knowing what to expect can help you plan better and avoid surprises later.
Here are a few things that can raise or lower the cost:
Roof Shape and Build: A flat or simple roof is easier and faster to work on. But if your roof is steep, has lots of angles, or includes extra features like skylights, it takes more time. That means more labor and more money.
Condition of the Roof: If your roof is worn out or not strong enough to hold solar panels, it will need repairs first. That can mean extra materials and extra work. Those things add to the cost.
Kind of Solar Panels You Choose: Some solar panels cost more than others. The ones that last longer or work better in low sunlight usually come with a higher price tag. But over time, they can save you more money on energy bills.
Who You Hire: Labor costs depend on the team you choose. A crew with more skill may charge a little more, but they’re less likely to make mistakes. That can help avoid costly repairs later.
Every job is a little different. Thinking through these things ahead of time can help you stay on budget and avoid last-minute costs.
Extra Costs to Keep in Mind
You might already be aware of the high costs of getting a new roof and solar panels. However, there are some other things that can increase your bill. If you know about these things early, you can avoid unexpected charges in the future.
Permits and Inspection
In Ottawa, you need to get the right permits before starting a roof or solar job. You will also have inspections. These have a cost, so be sure to include that in your budget from the beginning.
Extra Roof Support
Some roofs need extra help to hold the weight of solar panels. If your roof needs more support, this means more work and more cost. A quick look before you start can help find any issues.
Batteries for Backup Power
Do you want to save some of that energy for later? You will need a battery. It is a good way to keep power when the sun isn’t shining, but it can cost a lot. Add this to your list if it is important to you
Basic Upkeep
Solar panels do not need a lot of work, but you can’t ignore them completely. A simple clean and check from time to time helps them work better and last longer. It is a small cost, but it is still good to plan for it.
How to Save Money on Roof and Solar Projects
Getting a new roof and solar panels doesn’t need to be very expensive. With some smart choices, you can lower costs and still have great results that last.
Look for Rebates
Begin by looking for rebates offered by the government. Some come from federal programs, while others are local. These can significantly reduce the cost of your project.
Add Other Upgrades While You’re At It
If you are already fixing your home, it may be a good time to work on other things as well. Putting in better insulation or new windows can help your house feel cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This also helps your solar panels work better.
Choose the Right Roof
A roof made of metal may cost more at first. But it lasts a long time and is good for solar panels. This means you won’t need to change it for a while, which saves money in the future.
Saving money on big home projects can be hard, but it’s possible. With some planning and smart choices, you can get a strong roof and working panels that help save energy. This way, you will keep more money in your pocket.
Why People in Ottawa Go with True Beacon for Solar Installation
We’re Licensed and Know What We’re Doing
Our crew is made up of trained electricians who’ve been doing this for a long time. We don’t guess. We don’t rush. We just do it right.
We Always Check the Roof First
Your roof matters. Before we start, we take a close look to see if it can hold solar panels. If something’s not right, we’ll fix it first.
We Get Ottawa’s Crazy Weather
Snow, ice, deep cold—we’ve seen it all. Our systems are built to hold up through winter after winter. No worries there.
You Get All the Info, in Writing
We give you all the paperwork you need. And if anything goes wrong with our work, you’re covered for five years.
People Around Here Trust Us
We’ve helped over 250 homeowners in Ottawa. They call us because we show up, we explain things clearly, and we follow through.
No Hidden Costs or Surprises
What we quote is what you pay. We’ll also go over any money-back programs or savings that might help lower your costs.
We Handle the Whole Thing
You don’t need to figure it all out on your own. We take care of the forms, the install, and the setup. Most people say it’s easier than they thought.
True Beacon Home Solar System Pricing
Prices listed exclude applicable rebates
Low Consumption
$170/mo with 0% APR
- $20,000 Including Tax
- 6092 kWh Annual Generation
- 11x 450W Solar Panels
- Engineering & Permits
- Installation Included
- 25 Years Warranty
- 24/7 Monitoring
- EV Compatible
- Battery Compatible
Standard Consumption
$270/mo with 0% APR
- $32,000 Including Tax
- 11,802 kWh Annual Generation
- 22x 450W Solar Panels
- Engineering & Permits
- Installation costs Included
- 25 Years Warranty
- 24/7 System Monitoring
- Electric Vehicle Ready
- Battery Expansion Ready
High Consumption
$360/mo with 0% APR
- $43,000 Including Tax
- 16,731kWh Annual Generation
- 33x 450W Solar Panels
- Engineering & Permits
- Installation Included
- 25 Years Warranty
- 24/7 System Monitoring
- Electric Vehicle Ready
- Battery Expansion Ready
How One Homeowner Saved Money with True Beacon Solar Installation
Nicholas Morin reached out to us to install an EV charger in his garage. The process was simple. He said, “They arrived on time and finished ahead of schedule.” After a smooth installation, he was happy with the work.
A few months later, Nicholas called us again—this time for solar panels. We installed a 5.2 kW system on his roof. “Now I’m saving a bunch of cash every month!” he told us. The system works well, and he even feeds extra energy back to the grid. “I can monitor my energy production and stats for each panel,” he said.
For us, it’s not just about installing solar panels. It’s about helping people save money and reduce their energy use. Nicholas’s home is now more cost-effective, and we’re proud to have helped.
Ready to Power Your Home with Solar Energy?
At True Beacon, we make it easy to switch to clean, renewable energy. Our expert team ensures a smooth installation process, from roof inspection to system setup. Let us help you save on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Call us at 613-701-1028 for a free consultation!
Call us at 613-701-1028 or visit truebeacon.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my roof before installing solar panels?
If your roof is over 10 to 15 years old or starting to wear out, it’s a good idea to replace it before putting up solar panels. That way, you won’t have to take the panels down later just to fix or replace the roof—it saves money and hassle in the long run.
Can I finance both the roof and solar system together?
Yes, you can. A lot of people choose to roll the roof work and solar install into one loan. At True Beacon, we can help explain the loan choices and any rebates that might lower your cost.
What government rebates or incentives are available in Ontario?
If you live in Ontario, you might be able to get a $40,000 loan from the federal government with no interest. Some homes also qualify for extra rebates for solar panels or battery systems, depending on what you install.
How much can I save on energy bills with solar?
It depends on your setup and how much electricity you use. But many folks in Ottawa save at least $200 a month. Over time, that can mean more than $50,000 back in your pocket.
What factors impact the total cost of installation?
Costs vary based on system size, roof material, roof pitch, structural repairs, and panel type. Labor, permit fees, and optional battery storage can also affect the total price.
What is the average cost of a roof and solar installation in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, the average price for a residential solar installation is between $2.42 and $3.05 per watt. The price may vary based on the size of the system and the materials used. You can also lower this cost with the federal government’s available incentives and provincial rebates. This helps make solar energy more affordable and available for homeowners.
How long does the installation process take from start to finish?
The installation of a roof and solar system usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. This time includes getting permits, preparing the site, and setting up the system. Each project’s timeline can change. Factors include labour costs, the complexity of the work, and the speed at which necessary permits are obtained. This ensures that the project is finished safely and meets all requirements.
How does solar power help lower my electricity bills?
Solar power reduces your dependence on the grid by generating energy at home. This lowers your cost of electricity, especially during peak times when rates are higher. Over time, this adds up to real savings.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Ottawa?
The payback period is usually between 6 to 10 years, depending on your system size, available rebates, and your home’s energy consumption. After that, your solar system continues to save money for many years.
What other benefits come with solar besides saving money?
Switching to solar supports clean energy and reduces your environmental impact. With net metering, you can also earn credits for extra energy you send to the grid. Plus, solar with battery storage can help during power outages.