Why People Are Looking at Solar Now
Energy bills keep going up. Storms knock out power more often. The grid’s feeling a little shaky these days and honestly, it’s got folks thinking twice about how we power our homes.
That’s where solar comes in.
At True Beacon Solar, we saw it firsthand. What started as an electrical contracting business turned into a mission: help homeowners take back control of their power. With the right setup, you can stay warm, keep the lights on, and feed your family even when the power grid goes down.
People across Ottawa, Orleans, Kingston, and nearby areas are looking at solar as a way to protect what matters most. But before you dive in, it helps to understand how it all works.
What Is Solar Energy, Really?
Solar energy is power from the sun. That’s it. The sun gives off light and warmth every day, no electric bill, no break. All we have to do is catch it and put it to good use.
That’s where solar panels come in.
They sit up on your roof and soak in the sunlight. Inside, special materials turn that sunlight into power you can actually use. It happens quietly. No gears, no gas, no smoke.
And here’s the cool part, it still works when it’s cloudy or cold. Got snow on your roof in January? No problem. Solar panels can even do better when it’s chilly outside.
In a place like Ottawa, where the weather can flip fast, solar still holds up all year round
How Do Solar Panels Turn Sunlight Into Power?
Alright, so the sun’s doing its thing. But how does sunlight actually power your fridge or charge your phone?
Here’s the short and simple version.
Solar panels are built using a material called silicon, the same stuff inside computer chips. When sunlight hits the photovoltaic cells, it stirs up tiny particles called electrons. That movement creates direct current, or DC electricity.
But your home doesn’t use DC power. It runs on AC power alternating current just like the electricity you get from the power company.
That’s where the inverter comes in.
The inverter’s job? Flip that solar-made DC power into AC power your home uses. Your lights, appliances, and outlets all work the same. You won’t even notice the difference.
Here’s the full journey in plain terms:
The sun hits your solar panels.
- The panels make DC power.
- The inverter changes it into AC power.
- That power goes through your breaker panel and into your home.
Got extra power? It can be sent back to the electrical grid or saved in a battery (we’ll get to that part soon).
What’s Included in a Solar Setup?
A solar system might sound high-tech, but when you break it down, it’s really just a few key parts working together. Here’s what’s usually included when True Beacon Solar installs your system:
Solar Panels
These are the stars of the show. They sit on your roof and soak up sunlight. The more light they catch, the more power they make. Simple as that. All of our panels come with 25-year warranties, so they’ll be working for you long after they’re paid off.
Inverter
Solar power starts as DC electricity. The inverter changes it into AC power so your home can actually use it. There are a few kinds (like string inverters and microinverters), and we’ll help you choose what fits best. Most brands back theirs for 10 to 25 years.
Mounting System
This is what holds your panels in place. It’s bolted right into your roof or the ground if needed. Built tough to handle strong winds and snow. Perfect for life in Ottawa.
Wiring + Electrical Gear
This covers all the behind-the-scenes stuff: wires, conduit, disconnect switches, and safety equipment that links your solar setup to your home’s electrical panel. This is where True Beacon Solar really shines. We’re licensed electricians, so everything is done safely and up to code, no shortcuts.
Monitoring System
Once it’s running, you can check your system’s performance anytime right from your phone or computer. Want to know how much power you made today? You got it. Curious how much you saved last month? That’s in there, too. It’s actually fun to watch.
Battery Backup (Optional but Worth It)
A lot of folks ask about this and it makes sense. A home battery means your solar system can still power things if the grid goes out. It stores extra energy during the day so you can use it at night or in a blackout. It’s not in every install, but when you need it, it’s a lifesaver.
Net Metering vs Load Displacement: Where Does Extra Power Go?
When your solar panels are working hard, say, on a sunny afternoon, but you’re not using all the power, where does that extra renewable energy go?
Good question. You’ve got two main options: Net Metering or Load Displacement. Let’s break them down.
Option 1: Net Metering
This setup is really common in Ontario.
When your solar system makes more electricity than your home needs, the extra power goes back to the grid. You don’t get paid for it, but you do get credits on your hydro bill.
Later, like at night or on a cloudy day, you pull power from the grid again, and those credits help cover the energy cost. It’s kind of like storing the sun’s energy for later.
Here’s how it works in a nutshell:
Daytime: Solar makes more than you need ? extra goes to the grid ? you earn credits.
Nighttime or winter: You use more than you make ? power comes from the grid ? credits help cover it.
At True Beacon Solar, we install Net Metering–ready systems all across Ottawa, and we’ll even handle the paperwork to get you set up.
Bonus: You can still apply for the $40,000 interest-free loan from the federal government with a net metering system.
Option 2: Load Displacement
This one’s a bit different and is often used when folks are adding batteries.
With load displacement, all the solar energy your system makes is used right inside your home. You’re powering things directly, lowering your hydro bill in real time. But if your solar cells make more than your home needs, that extra power doesn’t go anywhere. It doesn’t feed the grid, and you don’t get credits.
It’s a good choice for people who:
- Want to be more energy independent
- Plan to add batteries for extra energy storage
- Want to use Ontario’s battery rebate (up to $5,000 off batteries)
Pro Tip: The battery rebate only applies to load displacement setups, not net metering.
So… Which One’s Better?
It really depends on what you’re after.
Want simple savings without dealing with batteries? Net metering could be a great fit.
Looking for backup power, more control, and battery rebates? Load displacement is the better pick.
Not sure what’s right for you? That’s what we help you figure out during your quote and design visit.
What If the Power Goes Out? Will Solar Still Work?
Short answer? Nope, unless you’ve got a battery.
This surprises a lot of people. You’d think that with solar panels on your roof and the sun shining, you’d still have power, right?
But here’s the deal…
When the grid goes down, your solar system shuts down too.
Why? Safety.
There’s a rule called Rapid Shutdown. When there’s a power outage, utility crews are out fixing lines. If your system kept sending electricity back to the grid, it could put those workers in danger.
So, your solar has to fully disconnect. That means no power from the panels even in broad daylight unless your system is built to run without the grid.
The Fix? Add a Battery + Smart Switch
This is where home batteries come in.
When you add a battery and a smart switch, your house can “island” itself, basically cut off from the grid, so your solar panels can keep doing their job without feeding power to outside lines.
Here’s what happens:
Power goes out
Smart switch cuts your house off from the grid
Battery kicks in to run key things
Solar keeps charging the battery and powering your home while the sun’s out
At True Beacon Solar, we help you pick the right battery size based on what you want to keep running during an outage like the fridge, Wi-Fi, lights, or maybe your well pump.
Most folks start with one battery. You can always add more later.
How Much Maintenance Does a Solar System Need?
Honestly? A little maintenance at all.
Once your solar setup is in place and running, there’s really not a whole lot to worry about. Since there aren’t any moving parts, there’s barely any wear and tear.
Here’s what most folks around Ottawa ask us:
Do I need to clean the panels?
Most of the time, no. Rain and snow usually take care of it.
We install your panels at an angle so dirt and leaves slide off on their own. If you do notice a mess building up, a light spray from a garden hose is usually enough. No need to get up there every season.
What about repairs?
The part that might need work later on is the inverter. It usually lasts around 10 to 15 years. If it goes, it’ll need to be swapped out. The good news? Most inverters come with long warranties, and we’re here to help if anything happens.
At True Beacon Solar, every install comes with a 5-year labour warranty. So if something goes wrong, you’re not on your own.
Do I need to check on it all the time?
Not at all. You’ll have an app that shows how your system’s doing. If something’s off, it’ll let you know. Most people just check it to see how much power they made that day; it’s honestly kind of fun to watch.
Bottom line: Solar systems don’t ask for much. They’re built to last over 25 years. Once it’s running, you pretty much just let it do its thing and enjoy the savings.
How Long Does It Take To Get Installed?
Good news: Going solar doesn’t take forever. Most of the time, it’s a smooth 6 to 10 weeks from the moment you say “let’s do this” to the day your system starts making power.
But here’s the thing, it’s not all hammers and ladders. A big part of the wait comes from paperwork, permits, and your utility company giving the final thumbs-up.
Here’s how it usually goes:
Step 1: Quote + Site Visit
We start with a quick call to hear what you’re looking for. Then we swing by to check your roof, see how much sunlight it gets, and take a look at your electrical panel. Easy stuff.
Step 2: System Design + Approval
Next, we design a system that fits your home and power needs. You’ll see where the panels go, how much energy you’ll likely produce, and what the full price looks like with any rebates or payment plans included. Once you say “go,” we handle the paperwork and permit stuff.
Step 3: Installation
This part’s usually quicker than folks expect. Our solar installers get it done in 3 to 4 days. We mount the panels, run the wiring, and hook up the inverter. Once we’re rolling, things move fast.
Step 4: Utility Hookup + Final Checks
After we wrap up the install, we schedule the final inspection and get the green light from the utility. That’s the last step before you flip the switch and start making your own power.
And just like that, you’re running on sunshine.
Pro Tip: Want to move faster? If you’ve got your hydro bill, some roof info, and past power use ready, we can speed things up on our end.
What Does It Cost? And How Much Can You Save?
Alright, here’s the deal: solar doesn’t come with a set price tag.
It depends on a few things, how much power you use, how big your roof is, how much sun you get, and if you’re adding a battery.
Still, we can give you a solid idea of what to expect and why solar usually pays off in a great way.
First, Let’s Talk Savings
If your hydro bill is around $200 or more each month, solar could save you a lot. Over time, those savings can add up to $50,000 or more over the life of your system.
Here’s how it works:
- You make your own power during the day.
- You buy way less from the utility.
- You get credits or use a battery to cover your evening use.
Over the years, your system basically covers its own cost, then just keeps saving you money for decades.
The one thing to keep in mind? Most hydro companies still charge a monthly connection fee (usually $40–$60), even if you’re barely using their power. But your total cost still drops a lot.
What About Upfront Costs?
This part’s actually pretty exciting. Thanks to some helpful programs in Canada, you don’t need a pile of cash to go solar anymore.
Here’s what’s on the table right now:
A $40,000 interest-free loan from the federal government (you’ve got 10 years to pay it back)
Up to $5,000 rebate for going solar (Ontario)
Another $5,000 off if you add a battery and go with a load displacement setup
With these programs, most homeowners can get started with little to no money up front and see smaller electricity bills right out of the gate.
And What Does True Beacon Solar Do Differently?
We don’t guess. We look at how much power you actually use and design your system around that. And since we’re licensed electricians with real-world experience in both homes and large buildings, we build everything to last.
You’ll get top-quality equipment, real warranties, and a team that knows how to set you up for long-term savings, not just a quick install.
Why Choose True Beacon Solar?
Let’s be honest, solar companies are everywhere. Some have big ads and big promises. Others hire whoever’s available to do the work.
At True Beacon Solar, we do things differently. And we’ve got the skills to back it up.
We’re Electricians First
Solar isn’t just about panels; it’s a full electrical setup. Most companies? They aren’t electricians.
They sell you the system, then pass the job off.
Not us.
Our founder, Nicholas Piche, is a licensed Master Electrician and CSA-certified. We take care of everything ourselves, from the wiring to the final switch-on.
We Come From Big Projects
We’ve worked on large commercial sites all over North America. So when we work on your home, we bring that same attention to detail and care.
No Outsourcing. No Guesswork.
Our crew is trained by us.
Our system designs? Also done in-house.
And when we give you a quote, it’s clear and upfront.
We don’t disappear after the job’s done. We’re here before, during, and long after the panels are up.
We’re Local And We’re In It for the Long Run
We live in Ottawa. We work here.
This business is personal. We’re growing it one solid install at a time.
No shortcuts. No rush jobs.
Just quality work that lasts. That’s how we light the way forward.
Real Questions from Real Customers (FAQs)
Do solar panels work in winter or on cloudy days?
Absolutely. Even with snow or clouds, your panels still convert the sun’s rays into usable power. They won’t hit peak production, but they’ll still generate electricity.
Will my home still have power during an outage?
Not unless you’ve added a battery and a transfer switch. Without those, your system shuts off to protect utility crews. Want backup power? A battery setup is the first thing we’ll recommend.
What’s included in a solar system?
The essential components include panels, an inverter, racking, a charge controller, monitoring software, and (optionally) a battery. Everything works together to power your home’s electrical system safely and smoothly.
How much can I expect to save?
If your monthly bill is $200 or more, you could save over $50,000 in your system’s lifetime. You’ll use less energy from the grid, which cuts down your energy consumption in a big way.
How do I know what system size I need?
We’ll look at your electricity generation needs, how much energy you use year-round, and your roof size. From there, we design a custom system that fits your home and lifestyle.
Do I need direct sunlight all day long for solar to work?
Not at all. While the amount of sunlight affects daily output, your panels will still produce power on cloudy days. We build systems that work through all four seasons in Ontario.
How many panels will I need?
The number of panels depends on your usage and roof space. Most homes in Ottawa need anywhere from 10 to 30 panels to fully offset their bills.
Does solar panel efficiency really matter?
Yes, but not in the way you might think. Higher solar panel efficiency means you can generate more power with fewer panels, great if your roof is small or shaded.
What’s the difference between solar power and electric current?
Good question. Solar panels generate direct electric current (DC), which gets converted into alternating current (AC) by the inverter. AC is what your home actually uses.
Is solar really a reliable energy source in Canada?
Totally. The sun is a renewable, free energy source, and panels work year-round even in Ottawa winters. With the right setup, you’ll have power through the seasons.