Frequently Asked Questions
YES! The most common misconception is that we need sunlight all year, the utility companies have what’s called Net Metering, which allows you to bank extra power credits you generate in the summer, to be used in the winter. And electricity flows better in the colder months so your system can produce max power with the shorter days!
Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power the home.
Installing residential solar panels can help reduce electricity bills, lower carbon footprint, increase property value, and provide energy independence. (Think, owning your power vs. Renting it!)
The cost of residential solar panels varies depending on factors such as the size of the system, home location/orientation, immediate surroundings like landscaping or other buildings, and installation costs. However, there are often incentives and rebates available to help offset the initial cost.
Solar panels can generate electricity in various climates as long as there is access to sunlight. However, the efficiency of solar panels may vary depending on the amount of sunlight available. Generally speaking, Western Canadian provinces generate more power in spring, summer, and fall when it's sunnier. In the winter, solar panels are less effective due to cloud cover, but you may be surprised to learn that energy is still produced on cloudy days or even when the panels are covered by snow.
Most residential solar panels are designed to last for 30-40 years, with warranties typically ranging from 20-25 years.
Solar panels require minimal maintenance, we suggest leaving the cleaning up to mother nature.
Net Metering means when your Solar system produces more power than you’re using, the extra power goes into a kwh (Kilowatt hour) bank to be used in the winter. You can essentially store energy produced to be used later in the year when we get less sun during the day for use during the night.
Solar panels can be installed on various types of roofs, including shingle, metal, tile, and flat roofs. However, the condition and orientation of the roof may affect the efficiency of the solar panels.
Solar Benefits
increased home value
increased home value
Research shows a 3-4% increase in value for homes that have solar panels. In addition, homes with solar usually sell faster. Future West Solar guarantees fair pricing on all residential solar systems with no hidden costs.
clean energy
clean energy
Our customers feel better knowing they are part of the change the world needs. Solar is the future and we want to be a part of it. At Future West Solar, our vision is to put solar on as many homes as possible in the Okanagan Valley and beyond.
saving money now
saving money now
Most of our customers offset 100% of their electricity bill. That means they pay nothing for power after their home solar systems is installed. Government programs help with initial equipment and installation costs, so the payback period is shorter than you might think.
saving money in the future
saving money in the future
Do you think the cost of electricity will go up in the future? Not to worry! Your solar energy system is your protection from inflation. By choosing solar now, you'll earn a higher return as time goes on. In the sunny months, you'll make more power than you need, so you can sell it back to BC Hydro at market rates, and draw on your credit in the winter months.
expert service
expert service
Our team offers a full-service approach, beginning with a free sunshine and home eligibility analysis. We'll let you in on potential costs vs. benefits, so you know the value you stand to gain before committing to solar. That's not all; we'll ensure your investment is warranty-protected, and if you need ongoing support, we'll be where you need us!
best quality
best quality
Our quality is unmatched - we use the best software for analysis and planning, the best equipment, and our own expert installation team familiar with modern building codes and best practices. Other companies like to cut corners, but we prefer to do things right from day one.