Do Heat Pumps Really Work in Canadian Winters? Busting the Biggest Myths
Written by Solenery
2 min read
Introduction
Ready to install solar panels? Not so fast—your electrical panel might need an upgrade. Many Canadian homes, especially those built before 2000, don’t have enough capacity to safely support a new solar system. And skipping this step could delay your project or create a costly surprise mid-installation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the electrical requirements for rooftop solar in Canada, how to tell if your panel is ready, what an upgrade costs, and how to make sure you qualify for solar rebates and clean energy loans. Don’t worry—it’s not as intimidating as it sounds.
What Does Your Electrical Panel Do—and Why It Matters for Solar
Your panel, often called a breaker box or distribution panel, is the hub that directs power to every part of your home. When you install solar, it needs to safely manage both electricity coming into your home (from the utility) and electricity going out (from your solar panels).
Why It Matters
- Solar panels send power back to the grid (especially with net metering).
- Overloaded panels can cause overheating or safety violations.
- Provincial code may require extra breakers, spacers, or subpanels for solar.
Installers won’t proceed if your panel is undersized or outdated—code compliance is non-negotiable.
How Big Should Your Panel Be for Solar in Canada?
The size you need depends on your home’s existing demand and the size of your solar system.
Panel Size Recommendations
| System Size | Recommended Panel Size |
|---|---|
| Up to 4 kW | 100 amps (may still need inspection) |
| 4–8 kW | 100–150 amps |
| 8+ kW | 200 amps or higher |
Common Issues
- Older homes may have 60A or 100A panels—not enough.
- Fully loaded panels (no spare breakers) may need expansion.
- Fuse boxes (common pre-1980) usually require replacement.
Example: A homeowner in Regina with a 100A panel wanted a 7.5 kW system. Their installer recommended a panel upgrade to 200A to meet code and allow for future EV charging.
How to Know If You Need a Panel Upgrade
You’ll likely need an upgrade if:
Signs You May Need an Upgrade
- Your panel is 100 amps or less.
- You see fuses instead of breakers.
- The panel is full with no extra slots.
- The installer notes a lack of space for solar breakers.
Your installer or licensed electrician will run a load calculation, based on Canadian Electrical Code, to see if your panel can support solar safely.
Some provinces allow derating or load-side tap installations, which may let you skip a full upgrade. Ask your installer.
What Does an Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost in Canada?
Costs vary depending on your home, region, and whether other upgrades are needed.
Typical Upgrade Costs
| Upgrade Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 100A → 200A Panel | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| New Panel + Meter Base | $3,000 – $5,500 |
| Subpanel Install Only | $1,000 – $2,000 |
You May Also Need
- New meter base.
- Utility disconnect switch.
- Inspection or permit fees.
Good news: If your upgrade supports clean energy (solar, EV charger, heat pump), it may qualify for rebates or interest-free financing.
Are There Rebates or Loans to Cover Electrical Upgrades?
Yes—and they’re better than ever in 2025. You can now fold your electrical upgrade into most federal and provincial clean energy incentive programs:
Federal Programs
- Canada Greener Homes Loan: Up to $40,000 interest-free over 10 years.
- Covers panel upgrades required for solar, heat pumps, or EV chargers.
Provincial Programs
- Ontario (HER+): Can include panel upgrades when paired with heat pump or insulation work.
- British Columbia (CleanBC): Includes electrical work tied to heat pump or solar upgrades.
- Nova Scotia (Efficiency NS): Panel and wiring upgrades may qualify when combined with energy efficiency retrofits.
- Manitoba (Efficiency MB): Bundled with solar and building envelope upgrades.
- Yukon (Good Energy Program): Applies to solar-ready upgrades and wiring.
Example: A homeowner in Ontario used the Greener Homes Loan to cover a $4,200 panel upgrade + 6.5 kW solar system, repaid over 10 years interest-free. They also claimed a $5,000 HER+ rebate for a heat pump, bringing their effective solar upgrade cost below $20,000.
Conclusion
Your roof might be ready for solar—but don’t forget to check your panel. A quick inspection can save you time, money, and headaches down the line. And with rebates and interest-free loans available, even major upgrades are more accessible than ever.