Why Canada’s New Clean-Power Push Makes Now a Great Time for Solar Through the Lens of a Residential Designer
As a residential design and architectural design team we work daily on renovations, custom homes, and multi-unit builds across Vancouver and B.C. Alongside designing beautiful, functional interiors and exteriors, I keep a close eye on broader policy shifts that can impact how we design and build for the future.
Right now, Canadian clean-energy policy and a forecasted $200 billion in investment are making solar energy and storage systems not just environmentally wise, but also financially compelling. For Vancouver homeowners where cloudy skies are the norm the question is no longer “Does solar work here?” but rather “How do we make it work for our property?”
Solar in Vancouver: Does It Actually Work?
Yes, it does. Despite our reputation for rain, Vancouver receives more annual sunlight than Germany, one of the global leaders in solar adoption. Solar panels still produce energy on cloudy days, though at lower efficiency. What matters most is design: south- or west-facing roofs, minimal shading, and good roof pitch can make solar a strong investment here. For properties with poor orientation or heavy shading, it may not pencil out — but that’s why we always start with a site-specific feasibility study.
Pairing solar with battery storage also changes the equation, offering backup power during outages and reducing reliance on the grid during peak times.
Why Policy Momentum Matters
Clean Electricity Regulations (CER)
As of January 2025, Canada’s CER caps emissions from fossil-fuel power plants, accelerating the shift to renewables and storage. This strengthens the case for distributed energy like rooftop solar.
Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit (CT ITC)
Available to businesses and developers, the CT ITC offers up to 30% refundable tax credits for clean-tech investments (solar, batteries, etc.). While not directly accessible to homeowners, it’s powerful for multi-unit developments or projects structured under a company.
Forecasted $200B Investment
Industry projections point to $200+ billion flowing into clean power by 2035, which will improve supply chains, reduce costs, and expand market opportunities for solar integrators and homeowners alike.
What It Means for Our Clients
Resilience + Sustainability: Homes with solar + storage reduce utility bills and improve outage protection.
Design Integration: Rooflines, mechanical rooms, and layouts can be optimized from the start.
Value Differentiation: Eco-conscious buyers place a premium on homes with clean-power features.
Better ROI Conversations: Incentives and financing improve payback periods compared to five years ago.
Challenges remain: grid interconnection can take time, programs evolve, and not every roof is solar-ready. That’s why we guide clients through feasibility, permitting, and partnerships with trusted integrators like Stardust Solar.
Why Stardust Solar and Similar Integrators Are Well-Positioned
Solar integrators with training programs, installer networks, and scale will be critical players. As designers, we value their ability to align system design with architectural intent ensuring solar looks intentional and works seamlessly.
Rebates, Grants, and Loans Available in B.C.
Here’s what Vancouver homeowners can currently access:
Solar won’t be right for every Vancouver home but for the right properties, it’s an investment in resilience, value, and sustainability. With federal and provincial programs, interest-free loans, and net metering, the barriers are lower than ever.
At Jamie Banfield Design Inc., we’re committed to helping clients explore these opportunities as part of their renovation or new-build journey. By integrating solar and storage into our design process, we’re not just creating beautiful homes we’re building homes that are future-ready.
Curious whether solar makes sense for your property? Book a “Meet + Inspire” session and let’s explore your options together.
