A renewable energy system can generate electricity from sources such as:
- solar photovoltaic (PV);
- wind;
- hydro;
- biomass; and
- geothermal.
What size system can I install?
For grid-tied systems, the maximum capacity you can install depends on your lot and electrical infrastructure. You will be eligible for the micro-generation program.
Many residential properties in Yukon have a limit of 5 kilowatts for the system output. In the case of a solar photovoltaic system, that means the inverter rating. The array can be larger.
For lots with a higher limit, our micro-generation program allows up to 50 kilowatt systems.
What will a solar photovoltaic system cost?
For grid-tied residential installations, the cost ranges from around $2.50 to $3.50 per watt.
For larger grid-tied systems, the cost ranges from around $1.50 to $3.00 per watt.
Off-grid, battery-based systems cost 2 to 4 times more. This is due to the high cost of:
- batteries;
- charge controllers; and
- back-up generators.
Other renewable systems vary greatly by site and project.
Will there be impacts to my home or business insurance?
Your home or business insurance rates or conditions may change if you install a renewable energy system on your building or property. Contact your insurance company to discuss your plans before installing your system.
How much energy can I generate?
With solar photovoltaic, you can expect to generate about 900 to 1,100 kilowatt hours per year for every kilowatt of capacity installed.
For example:
A home with a 5-kilowatt photovoltaic system will generate an estimated 4,500 to 5,500 kilowatt hours per year. That is about 50 per cent of the electricity used by the average Yukon household per year. This assumes the house does not have electric heat.
Download our solar calculator to estimate savings.
Wind, micro-hydro and biomass are more more dependent on the site and system. You can contact the Energy Branch to arrange a time to discuss your project.
