Solar installation Halifax has become an attractive option for homeowners and businesses looking to cut energy costs and reduce their carbon emissions. The Solar City Program in Halifax makes this possible by offering long-term financing and guidance for property owners interested in installing solar energy systems.
Nova Scotia’s Market Outlook and Labour Force Study forecasts that by 2030, the province will install approximately 140 MW of solar capacity—enough to power around 17,500 solar homes. This growth steadily reshapes the province through the development of renewable energy.
To those interested in solar panel installations, this blog walks you through the entire process while explaining the benefits of adopting renewable energy in Nova Scotia.
Key Takeaways
- The Solar City Program makes solar installation in Halifax affordable by offering 10-year financing with a fixed 4.75% interest rate.
- Property owners, including residents, non-profits, and businesses, can benefit from long-term energy savings, net metering, and transferability of financing to future owners.
- You can pay the full amount at any time within 10 years without a penalty. Choose bi-weekly, monthly, or yearly payments through Pre-Authorized Payment.
What is the Solar City Program?
The Solar City Program gives property owners access to innovative solar energy solutions that are accessible for financing through a Local Improvement Charge (LIC). Rather than paying upfront, homeowners can spread installation costs over time while still benefiting from energy savings.
How the Program Works
Under this program, property owners sign an agreement with the municipality to cover the cost of installing a solar system. After the installation, the municipality reimburses the solar contractor, and a voluntary LIC is placed on the property. This charge is separate from the annual property tax bill.
Here are some important details to know:
- A fixed interest rate of 4.75% for 10 years.
- The option to pay the remaining balance in full at any time without penalty.
- The LIC stays with the property, not the individual owner. If the property is sold, the charge can be transferred to the next owner with mutual agreement.
Are You Qualified to Participate in the Program?
Property owners who meet the program’s requirements and are located within municipal boundaries with accounts in good standing may participate in the program, including:
- Residential property owners
- Non-profit organizations
- Places of worship
- Co-operatives
- Charities
To qualify, you also need to meet these conditions:
- All residential taxes and fees must be paid in full.
- Any existing municipal liens (such as for sewer replacement) must be either fully paid or on an approved payment plan.
If you’re unsure about your account status, you can register, and the municipality will confirm eligibility for you.
What to Expect During the Process
The installation process for solar panel installations under the program is simple to help you choose the right contractor and solar power system for your solar needs.
1. Program Registration
Complete the online form by providing details about your property and your property assessment number. Once you register, the office will review your information and notify you of your eligibility. If you qualify, you’ll receive an email with a unique Solar City project ID and instructions on how to move forward with your project.
2. Solar Company Proposal
The solar contractor will design the system, supply the equipment, and facilitate the installation. As the building owner, you’re responsible for choosing your own contractor. The municipality does not select one on their behalf. When choosing a solar system company:
- Contact multiple solar contractors for proposals.
- Discuss pest protection, as birds sometimes nest under panels.
Email your chosen proposal to the Solar City office for approval. Remember, only systems capable of producing at least 70% of the energy that an optimal system would generate at the same site qualify for Solar City financing. Factors like roof orientation, slope, shading, and azimuth affect approval.
Choosing MAG Solar means sure approval. Let us help you switch to clean energy under the Solar City Program. We handle system design, installation, and paperwork so you can enjoy stress-free solar savings.
3. Contractor Review & Agreement
After you select a contractor, Solar City staff review:
- Third-party liability insurance and Workers’ Compensation Board status.
- Permits for building and electrical work.
- Certified solar modules and equipment suitable for Nova Scotia.
- Accurate solar energy assessment meeting program criteria.
Once approved, you’ll receive an Energy Efficiency Equipment Participant Agreement. All legal owners must sign before installation begins.
Important Note: You must sign and return the agreement within the 30-day window.
4. Solar System Installation
With approvals complete, you (as the property owner) and the contractor enter into a separate installation and maintenance agreement covering:
- Project cost and payment schedule.
- Equipment warranties and specifications.
- Operation and maintenance plans.
Remember, it is your responsibility to check for quality workmanship and compliance with solar industry standards. So, you need to select a contractor wisely.
5. Project Close-Out
When installation is complete, the contractor submits a Certification of Completion with the following documents:
- Description of work performed and final cost.
- Differences between proposed and installed systems.
- Data monitoring access and final inspections.
- Contractor invoice and applicable permits.
The municipality will not reimburse the contractor until all required documents have been submitted.
6. Payment Release
Once approved, the municipality reimburses the contractor directly. And for you, as the property owner, you will receive:
- An LIC invoice.
- A schedule of payments.
The first payment is due six weeks after the invoice date. Interest accrues daily on the principal at a fixed rate of 4.75%. The amortization period is ten years.
Sample Payment Schedule
Let’s say you have a $15,000 solar project with a minimum principal payment of $1,500 per year. Below is an example of how you could repay it over ten years at 4.75% interest:
| Yearly Installment | Interest Charged | Total Annual Payment | Remaining Balance |
| 1 | N/A | $1,500 | $13,500 |
| 2 | $641.25 | $2,141.25 | $12,000 |
| 3 | $570 | $2,070 | $10,500 |
| 4 | $498.75 | $1,998.75 | $9,000 |
| 5 | $427.50 | $1,927.50 | $7,500 |
| 6 | $356.25 | $1,856.25 | $6,000 |
| 7 | $285 | $1,785 | $4,500 |
| 8 | $213.75 | $1,713.75 | $3,000 |
| 9 | $142.50 | $1,642.50 | $1,500 |
| 10 | $71.25 | $1,571.25 | $0 |
As you can see, LIC payments shrink as the balance declines. So, this makes solar customers’ energy savings easier to manage over time.
How Will You Pay?
You can pay off the full amount at any time within the 10-year term without penalty. Flexible payment options are available. You can choose bi-weekly, monthly, or annual payments through a Pre-Authorized Payment plan. Payments by cash, debit, money order, or cheque are accepted.
Costs, Savings, and Energy Benefits
Because building owners choose their own solar energy system, costs vary. However, savings from solar energy production normally rise over time as traditional electricity prices increase. But you need to know that you can:
- Lower energy bills and operating costs
- Reduce carbon emissions for a more sustainable future
- Transfer financing to new property owners
- Access net metering through NS Power to offset excess power generation
Your solar contractor’s assessment will predict financial benefits over the life of the system. This helps you evaluate your investment and repayment ability.
What Makes Solar City Different
The program’s structure provides financing options while maintaining high standards for solar energy solutions. By collecting performance data from installed systems, the municipality helps create open data sources that improve solar energy production in Nova Scotia.
Other Advantages
- Step-by-step support for the entire process.
- Professional review of solar power system designs.
- Support for non-profits, businesses, and residential clients alike.
- Rebates and net metering opportunities that help save money.
Equipment and System Quality
The Solar City Program requires contractors to use certified equipment. This ensures that panels, inverters, and other components meet the highest quality standards. Solar modules must be suitable for local conditions and designed to produce efficient energy savings even in variable sunlight.
Make the most of Halifax’s Solar City Program with MAG Solar. Our experts design and install high-quality solar systems that qualify for the program’s 10-year financing.
Start Your Solar Panel Installation in Halifax
Solar installation in Halifax is simpler than ever, thanks to the Solar City Program. With clear steps, fixed-rate financing, and contractor oversight, you can confidently invest in a solar energy system that supports your solar needs.
By working with reputable contractors and using the latest technology, solar customers in Nova Scotia can produce efficient energy savings and move toward a greener future.
If you’re ready to explore solar energy production and want expert support for your next project, consider reaching out to MAG Solar to discuss how our team can guide you through the installation process.
