How much solar am I allowed to have?

Rules regarding system size are explicitly regulated by the AUC (Alberta Utilities Commission): Microgeneration (MG) regulation states that a solar system shall be sized to meet the electrical needs of the site (100%). When sizing their system, customers should look at previous year’s consumption and use that amount for target production (in kWh). Increasing your target production is acceptable when new major electrical equipment is installed and the owner provides proof of installation and ownership. If the equipment is not in your possession and connected to your service, it should not be considered for increasing target production. For more information you can visit the AUC site here: https://www.auc.ab.ca/

What happens to solar modules at the end of their useful life?

At the end of their 30-40 year useful service life, solar modules will inevitably need to be recycled. Thankfully, solar modules are highly recyclable. A typical silicon-based solar module comprises glass (76%), plastic (10%), aluminum (8%), silicon (5%), and other metals (1%). Of these materials, up to 96% can be reused to make new solar modules. This includes 95% of the glass, 100% of the aluminum, and 85% of the silicon. On top of all this, because you already have all the infrastructure in place (wiring, racking, and electrical capabilities), a new system can be installed at a fraction of the cost of similar sized systems built from scratch. Find out more about solar panels recycling HERE

Is critter guard/rodent protection necessary?

Whether you need critter guards for your solar array depends on several factors: Local Wildlife: If you live in an area with a high population of critters such as birds, squirrels, or rodents, they may be more likely to nest or cause damage to your solar arrays. Previous Incidents: If you’ve experienced critter-related issues with your solar array in the past, such as nests, chewed wiring, or other damage, it may be worth considering installing critter guards to prevent future incidents. Cost vs. Benefit: Critter guards can add to the overall cost of your solar installation. You’ll need to weigh the potential benefits of preventing critter damage against the additional expense. Repairs can be very expensive, and issues caused by birds/squirrels/critter rodents are not covered under warranty. Critter guards, such as mesh screens or barriers, can help prevent critters from accessing the space beneath your solar panels, reducing the risk of damage to wiring, nesting, or other issues. It is not necessary, but highly recommended by Rocky Mountain Solar Co. as issues caused by critters/rodents are not covered in by any of our warranties.

What is the solar club?

The Solar Club Loyalty Program is designed specifically for micro-generators. It allows customers to earn a premium on their solar electricity and help further green Alberta’s electricity grid. It is available with all UtilityNet retailers in Alberta. Enmax also offers there own version of the solar club with their Easymax Seasonal Solar program. The Solar Club allows you to change electricity rates throughout the year. During the months you export more electricity than you import, you will select a high export rate to maximize your returns. This is especially beneficial in Alberta as the majority of our annual production is in the 4 summer months. At the time of year where you begin to import more than you export, you are able to switch your rate back to the low seasonal Solar Club rate. For more information you can visit: UtilityNet https://www.utilitynet.ca/solarrate.html Enmax https://www1.enmax.com/solar/easymax-seasonal-solar

Are solar arrays fire hazards?

Solar arrays themselves do not inherently pose a significant fire risk when installed and maintained correctly. When installed by certified professionals and according to safety standards, the risk is minimal. Regular maintenance, adherence to building codes and safety standards, and proper training for emergency responders can further reduce any potential risks associated with solar energy systems.

Do I need batteries with my solar energy system?

Although battery storage systems are possible for most installations, 95% of our installations are grid-tied solar arrays without any batteries. The unique billing system of the deregulated Alberta energy market makes it just as economical to sell our excess electricity back to the grid (vs. storing it in batteries). Therefore they generally will not impact your savings enough to justify the cost. That being said, battery backup systems can be useful in areas where grid electricity has not been installed or it is unstable (remote locations). The security of having backup power is also something many customers are looking for. Also, if you have a EV, you may want to consider backup batteries to ensure you are always able to charge your vehicle. As the general population continues to electrify, battery backup systems will become more attractive. Storage systems will also become very economically viable if Alberta decides to impose any sort of peak demand billing system.

What happens to my solar system when the power goes out?

Clipping in a solar photovoltaic (PV) system occurs when the DC power generated by the solar panels exceeds the maximum capacity of the inverter to convert it into usable AC power. While a small amount of clipping is generally considered acceptable and may occur occasionally in well-designed systems, excessive clipping can lead to energy losses and reduced overall system efficiency. Here are some considerations regarding clipping in solar PV systems: Frequency and duration: Occasional clipping during periods of exceptionally high solar irradiance, such as on clear, sunny days, is generally acceptable. However, if clipping occurs frequently or for extended periods, it may indicate that the DC to AC ratio of the system is too high, leading to inefficient operation. Impact on energy yield: Clipping results in the loss of potential energy production during those periods when the inverter cannot convert all the DC power generated by the solar panels into usable AC power. The impact of clipping on energy yield depends on factors such as system design, geographical location, solar panel orientation, and shading. Inverter efficiency: Newer inverters often have improved efficiency and wider operating ranges, which can help reduce the occurrence and impact of clipping. Choosing an inverter with a higher maximum power point (MPP) voltage and wider voltage range can mitigate clipping to some extent. System optimization: Proper system design, including selecting the appropriate DC to AC ratio, sizing the inverter correctly, and optimizing the tilt and orientation of solar panels, can help minimize clipping and maximize energy harvest. Cost considerations: While reducing clipping is desirable to maximize energy production, excessively increasing the DC to AC ratio to eliminate all clipping may not be cost-effective. The additional investment in extra solar panels and a larger inverter may not always justify the marginal increase in energy yield. In summary, while clipping is generally considered acceptable in solar PV systems to some extent, minimizing it through proper system design and component selection is essential to optimize energy production and maximize the return on investment. Balancing the cost of additional components with the benefits of reduced clipping is crucial in determining the most suitable design for a specific project.

What is “clipping”? Should I be worried about it?

The DC to AC ratio of your system is very important. Simply put the DC to AC ratio is the total system size of the modules vs. capacity of the inverter. When making this decision we need to consider cost of equipment (higher powered or more inverters will increase cost) vs. the amount of production we can expect from the modules. In most cases it’s appropriate for the AC size of your system to be less than your DC size for a few different reasons. Rule of thumb is you want your DC to AC ratio to be about 1.2 to 1.3, and there are a few reasons why: #1 – Production of the Modules The first is the production of the modules themselves. Out of the box, the modules run at ~98% efficiency. Year over year they degrade at a 0.4% rate, however, these are not the only losses we need to consider when properly designing a system. Keep in mind we are always trying to maximize production, but at any given time, there are several “losses” occurring during the day; here are most important variable we consider: Tilt – this is the largest factor; modules are flush mount at the tilt of your roof, and not at the optimal angle for production. Incidence angle/orientation – the direction at which the sun is hitting your panels. Dirt/dust/debris (depending on severity can be up to 2-3%). Year over year degradation (as mentioned previously). Temperature – the warmer it is, the more inefficient electricity is. Wiring/connections losses. #2 – Clipping Due to the loss factors mentioned, it is safe to assume the instances where your modules are going to be producing near 100% of their rated capacity are non-existent. Therefore, it is not necessary to have an inverter capable of producing near the panels rated valued. That being said, there may be times when your modules produce more electricity than your inverter can tolerate. During these times you may lose some production; this is called “clipping”. Clipping is common with solar, and the inverters are designed to manage it. #3 – Cost of Equipment Adding more or higher-powered inverters to your system will have substantial cost implications. In most cases this extra cost cannot be justified, as the production gains will not be substantial enough to justify the extra money. #4 – Microgen Approval The other important factor we need to consider is your Microgen application with your line provider. The line providers approve your system based on the AC size of the system, not the size of your panels (DC size). Because they will approve based on AC size, we do not want to select an inverter with excess capacity. The appropriate DC to AC ratio for a solar photovoltaic (PV) system depends on several factors including the type of solar panels used, the inverter efficiency, shading conditions, temperature variations, and the desired system performance. However, a common rule of thumb is to aim for a DC to AC ratio between 1.2 to 1.5. This means that the DC capacity (in kW or MW) of the solar panels should be 1.2 to 1.5 times the AC capacity (in kW or MW) of the inverter. Having a slightly higher DC capacity than the inverter’s AC capacity allows for better energy capture during periods of peak sunlight and reduces the risk of clipping (when the inverter cannot convert all the DC power generated by the panels into usable AC power). However, excessively high DC to AC ratios can lead to inefficiencies and increased costs without significant benefits. Our team determines the most appropriate DC to AC ratio for a specific project, considering site-specific conditions and requirements. Additionally, advancements in inverter technology and system design may influence the optimal DC to AC ratio, so we are constantly staying updated with industry best practices.

What is the best DC to AC ratio?

RMSC currently provides solar module recycling services through one of our strategic partners. Please contact us directly if you have any modules that need recycling.

Does Rocky Mountain Solar Co. (RMSC) recycle solar modules?

Solar is not perfect, and we understand that greenhouse gasses (GHGs) are produced during the manufacturing and transportation of solar equipment. However, when compared with other forms of electricity generation (coal, natural gas) solar is vastly superior. Let’s compare CO2 emissions per kWh produced of these 3 electricity generators: Solar = 50g CO2/kWh Natural Gas = 500g CO2/kWh Coal = 1,000g CO2/kWh As you can see, solar is 10 times more efficient than natural gas, and 20 times more efficient than coal. A solar module will pay back the GHGs created during its production & transportation in about 2 years of service. So although it is not perfect, solar is a massive step in the right direction.

Are solar energy systems truly “green”?

The short answer is no, but whether or not you need to clean the solar panels on your house depends on several factors: #1 Location: If your home is in an area with high levels of dust, pollen, bird droppings, or other debris, it may be necessary to clean your solar panels more frequently to maintain optimal performance. #2 Weather Conditions: Rain can naturally wash away some dirt and debris from solar panels, but if you live in a dry or dusty area where rain is infrequent, you may need to have your panels cleaned more often. #3 Tilt Angle and Orientation: The tilt angle and orientation of your solar panels can affect how much dirt and debris accumulate on them. Panels installed at a steep angle or in a location that receives a lot of wind may stay cleaner than panels installed at a shallow angle or in a sheltered area. #4 Loss of Efficiency: Dust, dirt, or shading from debris can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels by blocking sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells. Cleaning your panels can help maintain their performance and ensure you’re getting the maximum energy output. In general, it’s a good idea to visually inspect your solar panels periodically to check for any buildup of dirt, debris, or shading. If you notice a significant decrease in energy production or see visible dirt or debris on the panels, it may be time to clean them. However, proper safety precautions and manufacturer recommendations must be followed when cleaning your solar panels to avoid damaging the system. This is why we recommend you call us if you ever suspect your panels may benefit from a cleaning. It is important to note that we do include annual losses from dirt, dust, and debris (2-3%) in our production simulations.

Do I need to clean my solar panels?

Hail damage is a common concern for solar users. There is no denying that solar panels can be damaged by hail (particularly during some of Alberta’s worst storms), however, it is highly unlikely. Modules are manufactured using a tempered glass layer, and come with a minimum direct impact rating of 1” hailstone travelling at 80km/hr. Take a look at this video showing a 2.5” ice ball striking a panel at over 120 km/hr. Thankfully there are insurance options to protect yourself against potential risks such as hail, and the premiums are extremely low.

Can solar modules be damaged by hail?

Each inverter manufacturer provides their own monitoring platform and we will set this up for you at no extra cost. In most cases, the platforms will have both app & browser based portals. If you need assistance navigating your app or portal, or if you need help logging in, please contact your Project Manager. *Please note a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or ethernet) is required to monitor the solar production.

How do I monitor my solar production?

A legitimate concern when considering the purchase of ANY technology is that a new, better version is right around the corner. Does the same hold true for solar panels? Let’s start with the similarities. Similar to other technologies, new and improved solar products are being released each year. Instead of processing power, new solar panels have incremental improvements to their efficiency of converting sunlight into electricity. For example, let’s look at the most commonly sold solar panel technology today: mono-crystalline silicon. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the maximum efficiency of this technology has increased from 14% in 1977, to 26% in 2018. That’s an average of roughly 0.3% per year. Some technologies are so rapidly eclipsed by advancement that they are rendered useless well before the end of their useful life. This is because, not only is the technology advancing, but the requirements of that technology are advancing too (i.e. software). In stark contrast, what we want from solar panels (electricity) is not changing. The amount we need and what we use it for may change, but a kWh is identical no matter what produced it. There is zero difference between a kWh of energy from a 30-year-old solar panel, and a brand new one. As long as electricity is useful, and the sun keeps shining, a solar panel will never become obsolete. Think of solar panels like a chair. A chair has one basic function: for you to sit on it. There are advancements in chair technology each year, but our requirement of them stays the same. Even an ancient chair still performs its intended function. The same can be said for solar panels.

Will my solar modules become obsolete as technology improves?

Ensuring your solar energy system is not strictly required, but is a good idea. Although events requiring claims for damaged solar panels are extremely rare, they can happen. Many insurance companies in Canada offer straightforward insurance coverages and low rates to insure your solar energy system. It’s simply a matter of adding the value of the installed hardware to the value of your home or business property as insurance policies deem anything that constitutes a ‘permanent fixture’ as insurable. As an example, we installed a system in Calgary with equipment valued at $71,000; our customers added it to their insurance policy and their premium increased by approximately $100/year. Most residential systems can be insured for $2-3 per month. As mentioned before, some insurance providers will add solar modules to your insurance policy at no additional cost.

Should I get insurance for my solar energy system?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are typically made of several layers of materials designed to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. The main components of a solar panel include: #1 Solar Cells: The core component responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. Solar cells are typically made of silicon, which is a semiconductor material. There are different types of solar cells, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film, each with its own manufacturing process and efficiency. #2 Encapsulation Materials: Solar cells are encapsulated between layers of protective materials such as glass, plastic, or other transparent materials. These materials protect the solar cells from damage and weathering while allowing sunlight to pass through. #3 Backsheet: The backsheet is a layer on the backside of the solar panel that provides additional protection against moisture and mechanical damage. It is usually made of polymer materials such as polyester or fluoropolymer. #4 Frame: Most solar panels have a metal frame around the edges, which provides structural support and rigidity to the panel. The frame is typically made of aluminum or stainless steel. #5 Junction Box: This box is located on the back of the solar panel and contains electrical connections that allow the solar panel to be connected to other panels and to the electrical system of a building or device. It also includes bypass diodes to prevent damage from shading or mismatched cells. Overall, solar panels are engineered to be durable, efficient, and long-lasting, with materials chosen to withstand outdoor conditions and maximize energy production over their lifespan.

What is a solar module composed of?

Solar energy systems operate more like a lightbulb than an engine. There are no moving parts to wear out and no filters or oil to change. Components will eventually wear out, and in rare cases have a defect, but no regular upkeep or maintenance is required for these systems to work as intended. This means that home/business owners do not require any special training or in-house expertise to operate their solar energy system safely and efficiently. In some cases, occasional removal of tree leaves or other debris is required, however snow removal is not expected (see below). If a component is defective, it is easily detected, and you can count on Rocky Mountain Solar Co. to handle your warranty replacement.

How much maintenance does a solar energy system require?

Solar energy systems operate more like a lightbulb than an engine. There are no moving parts to wear out and no filters or oil to change. Components will eventually wear out, and in rare cases have a defect, but no regular upkeep or maintenance is required for these systems to work as intended. This means that home/business owners do not require any special training or in-house expertise to operate their solar energy system safely and efficiently. In some cases, occasional removal of tree leaves or other debris is required, however snow removal is not expected (see below). If a component is defective, it is easily detected, and you can count on Rocky Mountain Solar Co. to handle your warranty replacement.

How long are solar modules warrantied?

Solar panels come with two different warranties: product warranty and power production warranty. The product warranty on solar modules ranges from 10-15 years and covers the integrity of the panel and its construction. This protects you against manufacturing defects, environmental issues, and premature wear and tear. Additionally, modules come with a 25–30 year power production warranty. This protects you against faster than expected degradation of the panel’s energy output. Although warranties vary, typical power production warranties state that the power output by year 25 shall be no less than 80% of its rated value. This is applied linearly, promising no greater than 0.8% loss per year. Sophisticated monitoring software makes spotting defects or issues very easy. If you encounter a component failure, simply contact Rocky Mountain Solar Co, and we will complete the warranty replacement at no charge. Even if your warranty has expired, we will continue to support you. Please reach out to our team if you would like additional information.

Will my solar energy system work while covered in snow?

Depending on the geographic location and tilt angle of your solar panels, they may become covered in snow for extended periods of time during the winter. Although sunlight will penetrate a thin layer of snow, anything more than a couple of inches will prevent most potential energy production. This is not cause for concern, however, as demonstrated by a recognized study at the Northern Alberta Institute for Technology (NAIT). This study placed two sets of solar panels on the roof of an Edmonton campus building at various tilt angles. One set of panels were constantly maintained with snow removal, while the second was left untouched. After gathering 5 years of data, the study concluded that annual energy loss due to snow was between 3-6%. But how could this be? Some of the panels were covered in snow for multiple weeks or even months! The answer lies with how and when solar panels produce energy. First, the power from the sun is most intense when it hits at a perpendicular (90 degree) angle. Solar panels, therefore, will produce the most power when sunlight is aimed directly at them. Secondly, the duration of sun exposure will dictate the amount of energy received. The outcome of these two factors means the energy produced by solar panels is maximized when days are long, and the sun is in a high position in the sky (summer). Alternatively, energy production is minimized when days are short, and the sun is in a low position (winter). Thankfully, this period of minimum energy production is also when snowfall occurs. The result, confirmed by the NAIT data, is that snow coverage affects the already low periods of energy production. In other words, snow coverage takes a big bite out of the smallest slice of the energy pie. (Note: While minimal, snow losses are explicitly incorporated in our analysis and design.)

How Do Solar Panels Work In Alberta Commercial Buildings?

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Article Overview

Understanding how solar panels work is the first step for commercial property managers evaluating renewable energy investments. This article explains how solar panels convert sunlight into usable electricity in Alberta commercial buildings, from rooftop arrays to grid integration. It provides a technically accurate overview of system components, electrical conversion, and utility interaction so decision-makers can assess solar opportunities with clarity and confidence.

What Happens When Sunlight Hits A Commercial Solar Panel?

To understand how solar panels work in commercial buildings, it helps to start at the photovoltaic cell level. A commercial solar panel contains multiple silicon-based photovoltaic cells wired together within a durable frame. These cells are designed to convert sunlight into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect.

When sunlight strikes the surface of a panel, photons transfer energy to electrons within the silicon material. This energy excites the electrons and allows them to move, creating an electrical current. The electricity produced at this stage is direct current power.

For a more detailed breakdown of what a solar panel is and how solar energy is produced step by step, including photovoltaic cell construction and inverter function, see our complete technical guide on What Is A Solar Panel And How Is Solar Energy Produced Step By Step?

In Alberta’s climate, solar panels often perform efficiently due to cooler temperatures, as lower ambient heat can improve photovoltaic efficiency compared to very hot climates. Snow management and system tilt angles are key design considerations to maintain year-round production.

How Does A Solar Panel Work Within A Commercial System?

Understanding how a solar panel works individually is only part of the equation. In commercial buildings, panels operate as part of a larger interconnected system.

Individual panels are connected in strings, and multiple strings are combined to form a commercial array. The scale of the system depends on roof size, structural capacity, electrical service limits, and the building’s energy consumption profile.

The direct current electricity generated by the panels flows through wiring to inverters. From there, it is converted into alternating current electricity that matches the building’s electrical infrastructure and Alberta utility standards. The electricity can then be used immediately on site or exported to the grid under approved interconnection agreements.

Commercial systems are engineered to ensure voltage stability, load balancing, and compliance with Alberta Electrical Code requirements. Proper system design ensures safe and predictable operation across decades of service.

How Solar Panels Work With Inverters And Electrical Infrastructure

A common variation of the question is how solar panels work once electricity leaves the solar array and enters the building’s electrical system. The answer lies in the inverter and electrical integration.

Solar panels generate direct current electricity. However, commercial buildings operate on alternating current. The inverter performs the critical task of converting direct current into alternating current while synchronizing with the utility grid.

In commercial installations, inverters are selected based on system size, redundancy requirements, and monitoring capabilities. Larger buildings may use centralized string inverters or distributed inverter configurations depending on roof layout and shading conditions.

Beyond conversion, the inverter manages safety functions. These include rapid shutdown capability, anti-islanding protection during power outages, and voltage regulation to ensure grid compliance. Without proper inverter selection and configuration, system efficiency and safety can be compromised regardless of panel quality.

How Solar Panels Work With The Alberta Electrical Grid

Commercial property managers often ask how solar panels work when connected to the grid. In Alberta, most commercial systems are grid tied.

When solar production exceeds a building’s real time energy demand, surplus electricity is exported to the grid through a bi-directional meter. When solar production is lower than demand, such as during early morning or winter evenings, the building draws power from the grid as usual.

This grid interaction allows commercial buildings to reduce net electricity consumption while maintaining operational continuity. Utility approval, engineering review, and proper disconnect installation are mandatory before grid connection is authorized.

Grid tied systems are designed to shut down automatically during utility outages for safety reasons. This protects line workers and ensures regulatory compliance.

What Determines How Effectively Solar Energy Is Produced?

While the core process explains how solar panels work, overall system performance depends on several engineering factors. For commercial buildings in Alberta, these include:

● Roof orientation and tilt angle, and overall array layout

● Structural load capacity

● Electrical service size and configuration

● Shading from adjacent structures

● Snow shedding and drainage considerations

Each of these variables influences annual energy output and system longevity. Production estimates are typically calculated using modelling software that accounts for historical solar irradiance data specific to Alberta.

Commercial systems must also account for future maintenance access, equipment clearances, and compliance with fire code pathways. Performance is not determined by panel technology alone but by how the system is designed and integrated into the building.

Why Roofing And Structural Integration Matter In Commercial Installations

Solar panels in commercial buildings are typically configured into interconnected arrays and mounted on flat or low-slope rooftops using engineered racking systems. These array structures must be anchored securely while preserving the integrity of the building envelope.

Improper mounting can lead to membrane damage, water intrusion, and long term structural issues. For this reason, integrated roofing and solar expertise is critical. Proper flashing, ballast calculations, and structural assessments ensure the building remains protected while supporting the additional load of the solar array.

Electrical integration is equally important. Commercial installations require proper grounding, surge protection, disconnect switches, and coordination with existing distribution panels. All work must comply with Alberta Electrical Code standards and local permitting requirements.

What Alberta Commercial Buildings Should Understand Before Moving Forward

Solar technology is proven and reliable, but outcomes depend on engineering precision and proper integration. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a predictable process, yet overall performance is shaped by design, roofing considerations, electrical compliance, and grid coordination.

When installed correctly, commercial solar systems in Alberta provide stable long term energy production with minimal ongoing maintenance. Understanding how solar panels work allows property managers to evaluate system proposals based on technical merit rather than marketing claims.

Rocky Mountain Solar Co. delivers roof integrated, code compliant commercial solar systems designed specifically for Alberta buildings and grid requirements.

Contact us to request a professional commercial solar assessment tailored to your building’s structure, electrical capacity, and long term energy goals.

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How Do Solar Panels Work In Alberta Commercial Buildings?

What Happens When Sunlight Hits A Commercial Solar Panel?

How Does A Solar Panel Work Within A Commercial System?

How Solar Panels Work With Inverters And Electrical Infrastructure

How Solar Panels Work With The Alberta Electrical Grid

What Determines How Effectively Solar Energy Is Produced?

Why Roofing And Structural Integration Matter In Commercial Installations

What Alberta Commercial Buildings Should Understand Before Moving Forward

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