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Savings calculator

What could plug-in solar save you?

Choose your city, panel direction and kit size to estimate production and savings. We use NREL PVWatts with your shading estimate and local electricity rate. Check the assumptions before using a result.

About these estimates. We are campaigning to make certified plug-in solar an option in Canada. This calculator estimates what a kit could produce and save. An estimate does not establish that a particular kit or installation is approved.

Panel direction

Shade reduces the sunlight reaching your panels. Choose 0% for no shade, or a higher value for shade from buildings, trees or railings. We use 20% as a starting assumption. Panel direction is a separate setting.

Estimated yearly production
650 kWh
812 kWh before 20% shading
Estimated yearly savings
CAD 62.36
using 16¢/kWh in charges solar can reduce, Alberta competitive market (1-yr fixed) + ENMAX Power D100 distribution
Time to recover the kit cost
8 yr 3 mo
using a kit cost of CAD 502.33 (median of 4 EU listings, pre-tax CAD)

Monthly production in Edmonton

800 W · south-facing · 20% shading. Estimated electricity produced in each month.

020406080Jan39Feb56Mar78Apr74May52Jun44Jul50Aug57Sep61Oct54Nov43Dec42kWh

How we estimate savings

  • 60% used at home. We assume the household uses 60% of the electricity the kit produces. Only that portion earns savings in this estimate. We give no credit for surplus electricity. Your household's use could differ.
  • Vertical (90°) panels. The model assumes panels mounted upright, as on a balcony railing. A different tilt, location or mounting arrangement could change production.
  • The charges solar can reduce. We count the per-kWh energy, transmission and other variable charges included in the local rate data. Fixed monthly fees remain on your bill. See rate breakdown.
  • Electricity rates held constant. We use the same electricity rate throughout the estimate. Future rate changes could shorten or lengthen the time it takes to recover the kit cost.
  • An estimated kit price. All money amounts are in Canadian dollars. We use European listing prices converted to CAD, or a model assumption when listings are unavailable. This is not a Canadian retail quote. Delivery, installation and taxes can change the cost.
  • Rate source date: 2026-04-17. Full rate citations.