Alberta has better solar resources than what most people may think. Solar electric systems will even produce electricity on cloudy days, although generation is significantly reduced.
Small solar electric systems can make a significant contribution to meeting energy needs. A small solar electric system may be a good choice if:
• trees, buildings, or other structures do not shade the installation location,
• there is adequate roof, wall or yard space to permit a collector assembly installation,
• the desired electrical output can be achieved, • there are few personal financial barriers for on-
grid homes or • the home or cabin is located off-grid, away from power lines.
Most people are interested in solar energy because it is a nonpolluting source of power. Solar electric systems are one of the most flexible home-based renewable energy systems available. The system can be moved from one location to another with far greater ease than other renewable energy systems and can be added to over an extended period of time, a few solar panels at a time.
Depending on the solar resource availability and the home’s electric energy consumption, a small solar electric system can lower electricity bills by 50 to 90 percent, prevent power interruptions and avoid the high costs of extending utility power lines to remote locations.