Living independently on the sun: a complete guide for Quebec

Are you considering making your home energy autonomous thanks to solar panels? Whether it is to reduce your electricity bills, prepare for power outages or reduce your ecological footprint, energy self-sufficiency is an ambitious but accessible project.

This guide explains how to size your system, choose Best components and plan your installation. You'll understand the essential steps without falling into technical jargon.

What you need to know right from the start

• Full autonomy requires batteries To store the energy produced during the day and use it at night
• A well-sized system costs between $25,000 and $50,000 according to your energy needs
• The installation must comply with CMEQ standards and the Quebec Construction Code
• All owners can access it, but a prior assessment of your consumption is essential
• The investment pays for itself in 10 to 15 years with available grants

What is an autonomous house in solar energy

An autonomous house produces all the electricity it needs thanks to solar panels, without depending on the Hydro-Québec network. Complete autonomy requires three main components: solar panels that capture the energy, the batteries that store it, and an inverter that converts the current.

In Quebec, this type of installation is particularly suitable for remote residences, cottages without access to the network, or for owners who want total energy independence. The Quebec climate offers good solar potential, with approximately 1,200 to 1,500 hours of sunshine usable per year according to Quebec Energy Transition.

How to calculate your real energy needs

Consult your Hydro-Québec bills for the last 12 months to find out your average daily consumption in kilowatt hours (kWh). Divide your total annual consumption by 365. For example, if you consume 10,950 kWh per year, your average is 30 kWh per day. Identify your winter consumption peaks.

An autonomous house in Quebec must be sized for the least sunny months (November to February), not only for the annual average. To reduce your needs, consider alternatives such as a wood stove for heating or a propane water heater.

What power of solar panels to install

A standard 400 watt solar panel produces about 1.5 to 2 kWh per day in Quebec on an annual average. In southern Quebec, each kilowatt of installed power can produce approximately 1,200 kWh per year according to Hydro-Quebec

For a consumption of 30 kWh per day, you will need around 15 to 20 solar panels, or an installation of 6 to 8 kilowatts. Add 20 to 30% margin to make up for losses and cloudy days.

Orientation optimal is in full south with an inclination of 30 to 50 degrees. We recommend an inclination of about 30 degrees for annual production. For winter, a steeper inclination (60 degrees) may be advantageous to facilitate the sliding of snow depending on Eco-housing.

Shading can reduce total production by 25 to 40% depending on Vesta. Prune or remove problem trees prior to installation.

How to size your battery bank

The Batteries store energy for use at night and during overcast days. For three days of battery life (recommended standard), multiply your daily consumption by three. With 30 kWh per day, you'll need 90 kWh of capacity.

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are the Best for the Quebec climate: lifespan of 10 to 15 years, stable performances at low temperatures, and high discharge depth. Install your batteries in an insulated and heated space to maintain their efficiency.

Decision table according to your situation

What to do to move forward with your project

Start with a professional energy assessment. Ask for certified installers RBQ specialized in autonomous systems. Verify your eligibility for grants via Renoclimat And the Canada's Greener Homes GrantS, which can reduce your costs by $5,000 to $10,000.

Obtain the necessary municipal permits and have your installation inspected by a CMEQ master electrician. Plan the installation for spring or summer to test the system before winter.

Prevent costly mistakes

Undersizing your system is the most common error. Size for December and January, the least productive months. Plan a emergency generator for extended periods without sunlight. Choose compatible components from a single vendor to avoid warranty issues.

Your energy autonomy at your fingertips

Complete energy autonomy is achievable in Quebec with careful planning. You now have the essential knowledge to properly size your system and avoid costly pitfalls. Remember that autonomy starts with reducing your consumption.

Do you need support for your solar project?

If you want to assess the feasibility of an autonomous system for your property, our team can guide you. Contact ERCO today to discuss your project to install autonomous solar panels in Quebec.

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