Solar: Back into the Grid

When we talk to friends about our solar panels, we are often asked if we are now "off the grid." The answer is no as what is generated by our panels is equivalent to about 15-20% of our electricity demand based on usage. However, if you based it on cost (i.e., $0.802 per kWh), what we get back from the government each year essentially covers our yearly hydro bill with a little left over to be put towards the capital costs associated with getting the system installed in the first place.