MicroFIT & FIT FAQs
Q. Why “Go Solar” now?
A. Solar energy is a limitless and free source of power that produces no greenhouse gas emissions. By generating solar power, you help reduce your carbon footprint and our dependency on limited fossil fuels. Now that the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) is providing incentives to homeowners and businesses in Ontario to install solar energy systems, solar is also an attractive investment opportunity. Under the Green Energy Act, Ontario’s Feed-In Tariff (FIT) programs offer home, cottage, small business and farm owners a unique opportunity to generate income while helping to meet Ontario’s growing power needs and creating new jobs.
Q. What is Ontario’s MicroFIT program?
A. MicroFIT is a green energy subsidy program developed by the Ontario Government with the Ontario Power Authority. The MicroFIT program is designed for projects 10 kW and under; the FIT program is designed for projects over 10 kW. The MicroFIT program is based on a 20-year contract with the OPA, which pays you 80.2¢ for every kilowatt-hour of solar electricity you produce and feed into the grid.
Q. What do I need to start a MicroFIT project?
A. A sunny spot, a MicroFIT-eligble solar power system and a MicroFIT contract from the OPA. A sloped, south-facing roof is ideal, but with the appropriate mounting hardware flat roofs can work as well. Ground-mounted systems can be used where roof mounting is not ideal. As part of our turnkey eSolar installation process, EfstonScience takes care of all permit and MicroFIT applications on your behalf. Get a FREE solar assessment to find out how much you could be earning.
Q. What’s included in a MicroFIT Solar Power System?
A. A typical MicroFIT Solar Power System include the solar panels (also called modules), mounting hardware to attach them to your roof, an inverter to convert the direct-current (DC power) from the panels to alternating-current (AC) power for the grid, and a dedicated Hydro meter. FIT & MicroFIT systems are “grid-tied,” so they do not use batteries to store power.
Q. Who pays me?
A. On behalf of the Ontario Power Authority, your local power distribution company will pay you a guaranteed price for all the electricity your solar system produces, either monthly or with each power billing cycle.
Q. How long will my contract be for?
A. The MicroFIT contract guarantees a fixed-term price for all the electricity your solar system produces for 20 years.
Q. What happens once the MicroFIT contract expires?
A. After 20 years, you may be able to keep selling the solar energy you produce or you may choose to use the power yourself.
Q. What is the life span of a solar power system?
A. Solar panels typically last at least 40 years. Generally the manufacturer’s power warranty is 90% of the rated power after 10 years and 80% after 25 years. The first solar system was installed in 1949 and is still operating and producing power.
Q. How much will the system cost?
A. The exact cost will vary depending on the size, location and specifics of your installation. As a rough guide, a mid-sized residential 5 kW system would cost between $27,000 to $30,000 installed and could generate between $4,000 to $5,000 per year with the MicroFIT program. Review some cost and income scenarios for small, medium and large MicroFIT setups.
Q. Is financing available?
A. Yes! $0 down, low-interest financing options are available for both home and business owners. Loans can be secured either with your house or the solar system and MicroFIT contract as collateral. You can pay back the loan directly from the income generated by the system, with typical payback within 7 to 10 years.
Q. Do you offer solar energy systems for larger commercial projects?
A. Yes. Systems more than 10 kW fall under the FIT Program. These systems require a more involved application process and engineering review. For more information, contact one of our Renewable Energy Specialists at FIT@eScience.ca or visit the OPA’s FIT website.
Q. What is included in EfstonScience’s turnkey installation process?
A. EfstonScience offers a start-to-finish eSolar installation process that includes:
- Analysis of your site for power and income potential
- Design of the optimum solution for your project’s unique needs
- Coordination and completion of the OPA application process on your behalf
- Obtaining of engineering drawings and building and electrical permits
- Assistance with financing, if needed
- Life-time technical support
Q. Why choose EfstonScience for my solar installation?
A. Partnering with the experienced team at EfstonScience will ensure that you get the most from of your solar investment:
- Simplicity. EfstonScience’s turnkey solar power systems include everything from site analysis and system design to engineering, installation and support. Our team of qualified installers and electricians will take care of all technical and administrative details, permits and applications.
- Reliability. The EfstonScience Service Commitment means lifetime technical support on your system. This year we’re celebrating 40 years in business, so you know EfstonScience will be there for you down the road.
- Selection. As Canada’s largest science retailer, we have access to the full range of solar products on the market. Given our solid reputation, suppliers want to work with us and negotiate lower prices that we can pass on to our customers. That enables us to mix and match components to give you the best system and meet OPA requirements for sourcing in Ontario. In addition to FIT & MicroFIT systems, EfstonScience offers off-grid, wind-power and hybrid wind+solar solutions.
- Experience. Our passive-solar heated SuperStore is home to the Renewable Energy Resource Centre, a unique hands-on showroom where our solar and wind power systems are on display. Come in and see it for yourself!
Got a Question? Let us know!
The life span of a solar power system spread is the investment over 30 years or 40 years.The return on investment is much more substantial. And hose who investment in solar power can feel more secure that they are making the right decision.