Navigating the world of solar energy can seem like a puzzle, especially when you’re just starting with your solar array. At Camrose Energy, we frequently hear a few common questions from our Solar Club members. To help you get the most out of your solar system, we’ve updated this guide with the latest info and tips to clear things up.
Do I need to maintain my array?
The good news: your system requires minimal maintenance.
- Snow & Debris: During the spring and summer, rainfall will generally help wash away dust and dirt, while during the winter months, wind and sunlight will usually clearn snow from your panels!
- Safety First: Avoid climbing on your roof to clear your panels as it can be dangerous. A layer of dust or a few days of snow won’t significantly impact your annual production.
Why am I paying a bill and a loan when I was told I wouldn’t?
This can happen when you don’t have enough credits built up, especially if your system wasn’t running during the Hi Rate season (typically March–October). Without those long summer days, it’s harder to accumulate enough credits to offset your bill.
- What you can expect: After a full six months on the high rate, your credits should be sufficient to cover your bill during the lower-rate winter months. Over a full year, the balance typically works itself out.
- What to keep in mind: Adding high-energy appliances like an air conditioner, hot tub, deep freezer, or electric vehicleafter your array is installed can impact how much of your bill your system can offset. Keep this in mind when planning for future energy use.
Why doesn’t my monitoring app match my bill?
If you’re closely monitoring your system’s production through your app, you might notice discrepancies between your app’s figures and your bill. Here’s why: Your solar array primarily powers your home, and only the excess energy—the energy you don’t use—is sent to the grid. This is the energy you’re paid for, and it’s reflected on your bill.
Pro Tip: To make the most of your system, try running high-energy appliances like your washer and dryer during the day. By using the energy your system generates, you’ll minimize costs from pulling power from the grid.
Why am I producing so much energy right now?
It’s summer in Alberta!
As we move into the warmer months, your solar system is likely producing more energy than you’ve seen during the winter. This is because Alberta’s summer days can bring over 16 hours of sunlight, which provides a significant boost to your system’s output. Longer days mean more solar energy, and this is the time of year when your system can really shine.
This is also when the Solar Club™ offers our Hi Rate, so you get paid more for the energy you produce and feed into the grid. Make sure to take advantage of these summer months to maximize your solar savings.
Pro Tip: If you have any energy-hungry appliances like air conditioning, use them during the day when your system is producing more energy. This way, you can avoid drawing additional power from the grid and make the most of the extra energy your solar system generates.
When should I do a rate change?
At Camrose Energy, we offer flexible rate changing to help you make the most of your solar production throughout the year. You’ll receive reminders from our customer care team in March and October to switch between the Hi Rate and Lo Rate. However, the best part is that you don’t have to wait for those reminders—you can change your rate whenever it makes sense for you!
Here’s a general suggestion:
- Switch to the Hi Rate when your monthly production exceeds your monthly usage. This is typically during the summer months when your system is producing more energy.
- Switch to the Lo Rate when your production drops below your usage. This often happens in winter when sunlight hours are shorter.
Check your monitoring app for this info or calculate it yourself. Solar Club members can even backdate rate changesto their last meter read, ensuring you get the best value for your energy production every month.
We hope this updated guide answers your questions and helps you feel confident about your solar investment. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we love to talk solar!
At Camrose Energy, we’re here to support you every step of the way in making the most out of your Solar Clubmembership and maximizing the benefits of solar power for your home.
