Going Solar in British Columbia
British Columbia enjoys a reputation as a leader in clean energy, and solar power is a growing part of that picture. While BC Hydro's low electricity rates historically made solar payback longer, rising rates and provincial programs have made solar a smart investment for BC homeowners.
Note: The federal Canada Greener Homes Grant (closed February 2024) and Canada Greener Homes Loan (closed October 2025) are no longer accepting new applications. BC homeowners can still benefit from BC Hydro's net metering program and the CleanBC Better Homes rebates.
Below are the British Columbia solar incentives and rebates that may benefit you.
British Columbia Solar Incentives, Rebates, And Benefits
Canada Greener Homes Grant (Closed Feb 2024)
The Canada Greener Homes Grant closed to new applications in February 2024 (program ran May 2021–February 2024). No new applications are being accepted. Existing approved applicants may still complete their claims. Visit NRCan.gc.ca for information on any successor federal programs.
Canada Greener Homes Loan (Closed Oct 2025)
The Canada Greener Homes Loan closed in October 2025 (final application deadline was January 20, 2026). No new applications are being accepted. Visit NRCan.gc.ca for information on any successor federal financing programs.
PST Exemption on Solar Equipment
British Columbia exempts solar panels and related equipment from its 7% Provincial Sales Tax. This exemption applies to solar modules, inverters, mounting systems, and associated components, providing immediate cost savings on the equipment portion of your solar installation.
CleanBC Better Homes Program
The CleanBC Better Homes program offers rebates for a range of home energy upgrades. While primarily focused on heat pumps, the program's energy audits and upgrade pathways can be combined with solar installations to maximize your total incentive package.
British Columbia Net Metering
BC Hydro's net metering program allows residential customers with solar systems up to 100 kW to sell excess electricity back to the grid at the retail rate. Unused credits accumulate monthly and are settled annually. FortisBC customers in BC can also access similar net metering arrangements.
Additional British Columbia Solar Programs
FortisBC Solar Incentives
FortisBC customers in the interior of BC can access the utility's own energy efficiency programs and net metering arrangements. FortisBC offers rebates on home energy upgrades that can be combined with provincial programs for solar installation.
Municipal Streamlined Permitting
Many BC municipalities including Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna have introduced streamlined solar permitting processes. Reduced permit costs and faster approvals lower the total installation cost and timeline, making solar more accessible for BC homeowners.
British Columbia Solar Incentives — At A Glance
British Columbia's solar incentive landscape has strengthened considerably in recent years. PST exemptions and BC Hydro's net metering make solar a financially rewarding upgrade for most BC homeowners. System payback periods typically range from 10 to 15 years.