MicroFIT Solar Income Calculator
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System Power
System Power refers to the total combined rated alternating-current (AC) power output of the system. More power output calls for more area covered with solar panels—but also means more income generated.
The amount of power a given system produces depends on a number of factors, including location, orientation and angle of panels, and shading. By following the position of the sun, 1- or 2-axis tracking mounts can boost system output an average of 25% to 40%.
Location
The amount of electricity your solar power system can generate depends on the amount of sunlight available at your location. The values used here are averages values based on RETScreen Clean Energy Project Analysis Software created by Natural Resources Canada.
For example, the estimated average output for Toronto would be 1150 kWh per year per kilowatt of panels. This figure takes into consideration average system efficiencies and losses.
System Size
System size is calculated based on a 200 W panel (module) with an average size of 62” x 36” (15.7 ft2) or 1574mm x 914mm (1.46 m2).
You can choose from many different module sizes and power ratings. The optimal choice will depend on specifics of your project and installation.
The total area of an installation will also depend on the type of mounting system used. Sloped roof systems have a very compact footprint; ballasted mounts for flat roofs require extra space to avoid shading.
MicroFIT Income
The 2009 Green Energy Act included the introduction of Feed In Tariff (FIT) programs through the Ontario Power Authority (OPA). MicroFIT and FIT programs ensure your local power company buys your solar power at a premium rate guaranteed for 20 years. MicroFIT is designed for systems 10 kW and under; FIT is designed for systems more than 10 kW.
The MicroFIT purchase rate of 80.2¢ per kWh is nearly 10 times the retail cost of electricity. That’s why it makes financial sense to sell solar power to the grid (Grid-Tie) instead of using it yourself (Off-Grid).
The income amounts shown here have been averaged over the 20-year MicroFIT contract. They factor in a 1% reduction in output per year typical of most solar panels.
