Solar panels and battery storage systems
Energy independence and increased reliability for your business
Solar photovoltaic (PV) system and battery storage systems, used in combination or on their own, are a great way to reduce your building’s energy bills and provide a reliable backup energy source.
Plus, we have multiple rebate offers available for businesses, multi-family buildings, social housing providers, and Indigenous customers living on-reserve and Indigenous governing bodies to make installing solar panels and battery storage systems more accessible.
On this page:
Benefits
1. Lower electricity bills and reduced on-peak costs
By participating in our self-generation program, you can lower your electricity bills by purchasing less energy from BC Hydro and by selling excess energy back to the grid. Plus, Battery storage can also help to mitigate your peak demand charges by using stored energy during times of peak usage.
2. Energy self-sufficiency and flexibility
Installing your own solar panel and/or battery storage system gives you more energy independence. Generate your own electricity to power your building, but with the flexibility to rely on our grid if needed. Plus, you can easily monitor your building’s energy production.
3. Backup power during an outage
With battery storage systems you have access to backup power that you can use in the case of a power outage.
4. Environmentally conscious
While the vast majority of power we generate is renewable hydroelectricity, using another renewable resource such as solar power is one way to have private generation. And if you’re using solar power and battery storage to displace backup diesel generation during a power outage, you’re making a sustainable choice.
Questions to ask your contractor
When working with your contractor to install your solar PV system and/or battery energy storage system there are certain considerations that will be unique to your project. Your contractor is knowledgeable and here to help make the best decision for your building.
Here are some questions and considerations to ask your contractor:
- How to size your system: How to calculate your energy use, whether you should conduct an energy audit to find areas to increase your efficiency?
- What type of solar inverter is being used, and why is it suited for my building?
- What is the expected lifespan of each component of the system, and how do maintenance needs vary over time?
- How is the battery management system configured to maximize battery life and efficiency?
- How does the solar panel and battery system perform under different weather conditions?
- What is the condition of my roof, and will it need repairs or replacement before installation?
- What are the weight load considerations for my roof structure?
- Is there adequate roof space?
- Are there any zoning and building requirements that should be considered?
Safety
There are rigorous safety standards and protocols followed during the installation and maintenance of battery energy storage systems. Always work with qualified professionals and obtain necessary approvals to help mitigate potential risks and ensure safe and effective operation.
Keep in mind these factors when installing a battery on your property:
1. Proper installation: Ensure that batteries are installed according to manufacturer specifications and local building codes. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards and reduced system performance.
2. Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial to dissipate heat generated during charging and discharging cycles. Install batteries in well-ventilated areas to prevent overheating.
3. Fire protection: Implement and maintain fire protection measures such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and fire-resistant barriers to mitigate the risk of fire.
4. Monitoring and maintenance: Regularly monitor battery performance and conduct routine maintenance to ensure safe and reliable operation. Keep batteries clean, check for signs of corrosion or damage, and promptly address any issues that arise.
5. Continuous monitoring: A battery management system (BMS) continuously monitors the battery's state, including its voltage, current, temperature, and state of charge. This helps prevent conditions that could lead to overheating, overcharging, or other unsafe states.
6. Protective measures: If it senses irregularities, the BMS can take corrective actions such as disconnecting the battery from the load or charger, alerting you, or activating cooling systems.
7. Training and education: Make sure to get training and education on proper battery handling, maintenance, and emergency procedures.
8. Emergency response plan: Develop a clear emergency response plan outlining steps to take in case of battery-related incidents, such as overheating or fire. Ensure all residents and/or employees are familiar with the plan and know how to respond effectively.
Available rebates
Rebates for business
Meet your business' energy needs with combined rebates of up to $50,000 on grid-connected solar panels and battery storage systems.
Rebates for social housing
Eligible social housing providers can apply for combined rebates of up to $150,000 on grid-connected solar panels and battery storage systems.
Rebates for multi-family buildings
Offset upfront costs with rebates of up to $50,000 in combined rebates on eligible grid-connected solar panels and battery storage systems for qualifying multi-family buildings.
Rebates for Indigenous communities
Indigenous customers living on-reserve and Indigenous governing bodies in our integrated (grid connected) area can apply for up to $150,000 in combined rebates on grid-connected solar panels and battery storage systems.