Solar Hot Water Systems and Components
What to look for
Consider the following when choosing a solar panel system:
A system, not just panels
As well as solar panels, you will need a solar hot water tank, new lengths of pipework and controls. These should be sized and installed by a CANSIA-approved professional.
Your purpose
The best configuration will depend on whether you are using the system for domestic hot water only, for domestic hot water plus space heating, or for a swimming pool. Again, consult a CANSIA-approved professional.
Durability
Coatings and seals should be guaranteed for at least 25 years for normal circumstances.
Government Grants
A wide range of government grants are available, depending on the building type and application. A professional installer may be aware of other subsidies in addition to those mentioned here. You are also advised to read the conditions carefully for grant or rebate schemes - and note that, while most good projects can be funded this way, not all can.
Homeowners can get a fixed rebate of $1500 through a combination of provincial and federal programmes for adding panels to an existing home. New homes built to EnergyStar or R2000 standards can claim a $1000 grant for solar panels. For a limited time there is an additional subsidy opportunity through the NRC, which is worth another $1300 to $1700. Businesses, public institutions and non-profit organisations can typically get 25% of the pre-tax price paid by the provincial government (SHIFT) and another 25% by the federal government (ecoEnergy for Renewable Heat).
Criteria
Vendors
| WestSource | Regina SK | 866 510 0516 |
| Nexus Solar Corp | Saskatoon, SK | 1-306-373-5960 |
| Rock Paper Sun Ltd. | Saskatoon, SK | 1-306-290-1875 |
| Suncatcher Solar Homes | Delisle, SK | (306) 493 2355 |
| Kelln Solar | Lumsden, SK | (888) 731-8882 |
| Sustainable Concepts Inc | Pilot Butte, SK | (306) 781-4561 |
| Solar Outpost | Saskatoon, SK | (306) 975-7772 |
| Mech-El Services | Saskatoon, SK | (306) 956-0177 |
| Solar Freedom International | Saskatoon, SK | 1 306 652 1442 |
| Prairie Alternative Energy Solutions | Saskatoon | 1 306 221-6378 |
| Solar Era | Regina SK | |
| Evergreen Energy Solutions | Regina SK | 1 306 585 2288 |
| WSE Technologies | Saskatoon, SK | 1 306 244 8808 |
| Regina Geothermal & Solar Inc | Regina, SK | (306) 591 2243 |
| Terralta Inc | Medicine Hat AB | 1 403 866 4328 |
| Helios Solar | Burnaby BC | 1 866 628 4340 |
| Green Sun Rising Inc | Windsor ON |