Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any fees for applying to the microFIT Program?

No, there are no fees for applying to the microFIT Program.

Where can I find the MicroFIT or FIT Rules?

The MicroFIT rules can be found on their website at www.microfit.powerauthority.on.ca and the FIT rules can be found on www.fit.powerauthority.on.ca.

Will the system actually generate money?

The amount of money generated depends on the location of the project, direction of the solar panels, tilt angle of the panels and available unshaded area available for the system. In general, a 10KW system can earn around $10,000 annually.

Isn’t it too cold for solar power in Canada?

Solar panels do not require heat to generate power but they require sunlight and cold does not mean lack of sun shine. The remarkable thing about Ontario is that over the course of the year it receives more sun light then Germany and Japan and they are the world leaders in solar energy use.

Can the system really work for the whole duration of the OPA contract (20 years)? What are the warranties available?

The two major components of the solar electric system are the solar PV panels and inverters. The solar PV panels come with a 25 year warranty. However, the panels normally last much longer than that as is evident in the satellite applications which have been functioning for the past five decades. The inverters come with a 15 year warranty and are designed for more than 20 years.

What are the maintenance costs and requirements?

The solar electric system is a maintenance free system. There are no moving parts and hence no wear and tear.

What if the OPA decides to terminate the program?

The MicroFIT & FIT programs are offered through a contract for 20 years with the OPA which guarantees a fixed contract price for each unit generated by the solar electric system. Even if the program is terminated after a few years, the contract is valid for 20 years and will not be affected by the termination decision. Such a decision would only affect those people who have not yet signed the contract with OPA.

Why is there such a big difference in the price quotes from different solar service providers?

Some companies may quote very low prices while others may quote very high prices. At WWSolar, we do not believe in charging high prices for our services. We also do not claim to offer the lowest pricing but our prices are competitive and we take pride in providing quality service and follow up for our customers.

What is a site assessment?

Site assessment is a process that lets us know how big of a system can be installed on a roof top in order to maximise the profits that can be generated from a particular location.

Is the site assessment free?

Many companies do offer free site survey based on Google data. However, when Google data is used it only gives us an estimate. For an accurate and reliable site assessment, it requires a visit by an experienced professional to perform a site survey. At WWSolar we advise our customers to get the site assessment done by our professionals for a nominal fee of $250 in order to optimize the system so they can generate the most profit over the course of the contract.

Should I replace my roof before I have the solar electric system installed?

In some cases home owners may consider having their roofing shingles replaced before having the solar installed. If the roofing shingles are relatively new, this is not a concern. Solar panels actually extend the lifespan of your roofing shingles (because the sun is what ages the shingles, and the panels are covering a portion of the roof). WWSolar will have your roof assessed by an independent Structural Engineer before installing the solar electric system.

How safe is the solar electric system?

All new wiring or wiring alterations to your home, including the installation of solar PV, will be inspected an approved by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). The ESA is an independent authority that has very high standards and regulations and will make sure that the system is very safe. This inspection is also a requirement for connecting to your local utility grid.

Can I install the solar system in stages/phases?

Yes, the system is modular. More panels can be added without removing or replacing the existing system. Under MicroFIT, this is called an incremental project. An incremental MicroFIT project is an expansion of an existing project. The incremental project must make use of the existing project metering and connection and must use the same technology as the existing project. To receive a contract for an incremental microFIT project, you must be the owner of the existing project and the incremental project.

If I sell my property, what effect does PV have on the sale price?

Energy conservation and renewable generation adds value to a home. Solar energy can be one of the best home improvement investments you make. The microFIT contract is transferable to the new homeowners. It can also be a great bargaining tool when negotiating your selling price.

If I install rooftop solar panels, does that mean I’ll never have to pay another electricity bill?

You will continue to pay for all of the electricity that you consume in your house or business. You will be paid for all of the electricity produced from your solar panels. Power generated under the microFIT and FIT Program is to be metered and accounted for separately from any electricity consumed by the owner of the project.

Is there a penalty if I decide I no longer want to participate in the microFIT Program?

No. A microFIT contract holder may terminate a contract with the consent of the OPA. There are no fees or penalties for terminating your contract; however, you will no longer receive payments for power generated from your renewable energy system following termination. Also note that if your connection agreement with your local distribution company is terminated, your microFIT contract is terminated automatically.