Solar Nova Scotia’s Mission
Solar Nova Scotia is a volunteer, non-profit industry association advancing solar energy, battery storage and beneficial electrification. We support a reliable, affordable electricity system that strengthens Nova Scotia’s energy security, reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and helps meet provincial climate goals.
We unite the solar industry through networking and educational events, empower the public and professionals with training opportunities, promote our corporate members, conduct vital research, and advocate for solar-friendly legislation. Our mission is to foster a collaborative and informed community that advances solar energy and battery solutions to meet provincial climate goals.
What We Do:
- We Bring the Solar Industry Together: for networking and community-building events like the Atlantic Canada Solar Summit and through partnerships with aligned goals.
- We Educate the Public and Build Industry Capacity: through initiatives like our “Discover Solar” presentation series, our popular Facebook Discussion Group, industry training events, and knowledge sharing with partners to bring solar training to Nova Scotia.
- We Promote our Corporate Members: through social media, our NS Solar Directory, and sponsorship opportunities.
- We Conduct Solar Research: to identify solutions and remove barriers to the adoption of solar energy and battery storage in Nova Scotia.
- We Advocate on Behalf of the Solar Industry: engaging members and advocating to create a regulatory environment that encourages the adoption of solar.
Our 2026 Policy Roadmap
Our 2026 Policy Roadmap sets out five priorities to advance solar energy, battery storage and beneficial electrification in Nova Scotia. It identifies policy changes to support investment, expand participation and strengthen the province’s electricity system.
What We Believe:
- Solar energy and battery storage have a vital role in reducing emissions, supporting a reliable electricity system and helping Nova Scotia build a clean energy economy.
- The Solar Industry is a community of many stakeholders that needs a voice and a seat at the table when it comes to planning for the energy future of Nova Scotia.
- The industry provides widespread benefits to Nova Scotians, including economic growth, jobs, and environmental benefits.
- Nova Scotia can be a Canadian leader in Distributed Energy Resources.
- Collaboration and innovation are key to achieving sustainable energy solutions.
A Growing Solar Industry in Nova Scotia
Explore developments shaping solar energy and battery storage in Nova Scotia.
Solar Across Nova Scotia
- Solar energy serves homes, businesses and communities across Nova Scotia. Rooftop installations, commercial systems and community solar gardens demonstrate the range of opportunities to generate electricity locally.
- Community solar gardens make solar accessible to people who cannot install panels on their own property, including renters and households with shaded roofs. Projects in communities such as Berwick and Mahone Bay illustrate this approach.
Related info:
Regulatory Improvements
- Nova Scotia’s Clean Power Plan identifies a role for solar energy, battery storage and demand response in the transition away from coal. Solar Nova Scotia advocates for policies that enable homes, businesses and communities to contribute to this transition.
- Nova Scotia’s electricity institutions are changing. The Nova Scotia Energy Board regulates the sector, while IESO Nova Scotia is assuming responsibility for electricity system planning, procurement and grid operations. Solar Nova Scotia advocates for transparent processes and fair opportunities for distributed energy resources.
- Solar Nova Scotia represents the industry in regulatory proceedings and policy discussions. Our work addresses net metering, interconnection, battery storage, demand-side management and beneficial electrification. We engage corporate members, government, utilities and other stakeholders to identify barriers and advance practical solutions.
- Nova Scotia Power’s Solar Grid Hosting Capacity Map provides preliminary information for project planning. It is a screening tool, not a guarantee of available capacity or interconnection approval; developers should confirm requirements and costs through the applicable interconnection process.
Programs and Incentives
- Federal clean economy investment tax credits can support eligible solar and energy storage projects. The Clean Technology and Clean Electricity credits have different rules for applicants, equipment and project timing. Confirm eligibility and applicable requirements before making an investment decision.
- Efficiency Nova Scotia’s Smart Synergy program offers incentives for eligible participants to reduce electricity demand during peak periods. Contact Efficiency Nova Scotia to confirm participation requirements and whether your proposed battery or demand-management project qualifies.
- Nova Scotia Power’s Commercial Net Metering Program allows eligible customers to generate renewable electricity to offset their electricity use. Eligible projects can be up to 1 MW AC, depending on the customer category and program rules. Interconnection requirements and costs should be assessed early.
- Nova Scotia’s Community Solar Program supports subscription-based solar gardens, allowing more people to benefit from solar without installing panels on their own property. Check the provincial program information for project eligibility, application status and subscription opportunities.
Related info:
Other Solar NS News
- Join us for the 2026 Atlantic Canada Solar Summit on December 1–2 at the Halifax Convention Centre. The event brings together industry leaders, policymakers and energy professionals for workshops, a conference, trade show and networking. This year’s theme is Regional Collaboration. Electrification. Distributed Energy Resources. Visit solarsummit.ca for registration and event details.
- Our Solar Nova Scotia Facebook Discussion Group is approaching 7,000 members. It’s a place for homeowners, industry professionals and anyone interested in solar energy and batteries to ask questions, share experiences and discuss developments across Nova Scotia.
Board Of Directors
Our Board of Directors are experts in renewable energy and education, helping us empower people to go solar.
David Brushett
PB Energy
Michael Peters
Glooscap Ventures
John Jennex
Solar Ascent
Julian Boyle
Switch PACE CIC
Roby Douglas
Natural Forces Solar
Jamie Rendle
Watts Up Solar ltd.
Steven Vezina
TreeTop Solar
William Morris
Guillevin International
David Brushett
PB Energy
Michael Peters
Glooscap Ventures
John Jennex
Solar Ascent
William Morris
Guillevin International
Julian Boyle
Switch PACE CIC
Jamie Rendle
Watts Up Solar ltd.
Roby Douglas
Natural Forces Solar
Steven Vezina
TreeTop Solar
FAQ
Your Questions Answered
Explore our frequently asked questions to find answers to common queries about solar energy.
What is solar energy?
Solar energy is energy from sunlight. It can be used to generate electricity, heat water or help heat and light buildings.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into direct-current electricity. An inverter converts it into alternating-current electricity for typical household appliances and the grid. Compatible battery systems can store electricity for later use.
Solar thermal systems collect heat from the sun, often for hot water. Passive solar design uses building orientation, windows, shading and materials to make use of sunlight and manage heat.
The questions below focus on solar PV and battery storage.
Why use solar energy?
Solar panels generate electricity where it is used and can reduce the amount you buy from your utility. Savings depend on installation and financing costs, shading, system output, electricity rates and the rules for crediting surplus generation. Ask installers for an annual production estimate and a clear explanation of their savings assumptions.
A grid-connected system supplies your home first and exports surplus electricity. Under Nova Scotia Power’s Self-Generating Option, eligible exports are credited according to the program rules. Generation above your annual electricity consumption is not purchased. Bill credits are an accounting arrangement; they do not physically store electricity or provide backup power.
Read Nova Scotia Power’s Self-Generating Option for current details. Customers of municipal utilities should confirm the rules with their own utility.
Is the design process for an on-grid system the same as that for an off-grid system?
No. A grid-connected system works alongside your utility supply and can offset part or all of your annual electricity use. Its design should consider your roof or ground space, shading, electrical service, utility requirements and expected future needs, such as a heat pump or electric vehicle. A battery is optional unless your chosen design or backup requirements call for one.
An off-grid system must meet your needs without a utility connection. It requires detailed planning for daily and seasonal electricity demand, battery storage, periods of low solar generation and any backup generator. Managing energy use is especially important.
For either approach, ask a qualified installer to assess your property and explain the system’s capabilities, limitations and maintenance needs.
Can I install my own solar energy system?
Start by speaking with a qualified solar installer and certified electrician. Solar installations involve electrical work, structural considerations and often work at height. Required permits, inspections and utility approvals need to be addressed before the system is connected and operated.
If you want to complete some non-electrical preparation yourself, agree on the scope with your installer first. Confirm how this affects permits, safety, warranties and responsibility for the completed system.
Will a grid-tied solar system power my home during a power outage?
A standard grid-connected solar system shuts down during an outage to prevent electricity from feeding into utility lines. Solar panels alone therefore do not usually provide backup power.
A system designed for backup can safely isolate from the grid and supply selected circuits, or potentially the whole home. This requires compatible equipment and usually battery storage. Backup duration depends on the battery’s usable capacity, the appliances running and available solar generation.
If outage protection is a priority, ask your installer which loads the system can support, for how long, and whether the solar panels can recharge the battery while the grid is down.
Is my home a good site for solar?
A suitable site has enough usable roof or ground space and good access to sunlight. South-facing panels generally produce the most annual electricity, but east- and west-facing roofs can also be suitable. Shading, roof pitch and layout all affect output.
Ask an installer to assess shading, roof condition and remaining life, structural suitability, electrical capacity and expected annual generation. Discuss planned changes such as a heat pump or electric vehicle so the design reflects your future electricity needs.
How do I get professional design and installation help?
Start with the Solar Nova Scotia Corporate Directory to find companies serving your area.
Compare written proposals covering equipment, expected annual production, total installed cost, warranties, permits and after-sales support. Ask about relevant experience and references. If you want batteries or outage protection, make those requirements clear from the outset.