WHAT IS SOLAR + BATTERY LOAD DISPLACEMENT SYSTEM?
A solar + battery load displacement system (also called zero-export solar) is designed so electricity stays inside your home.

Save on Energy Home Renovation Savings Program - Key Rebate Requirements
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To qualify for solar and battery rebates in Ontario:
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Solar must be rooftop-mounted
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A battery system is required
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System must operate as load displacement (no export)
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Net metering is not permitted
Rebate Amounts
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Up to $5,000 for solar PV
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Up to $5,000 for battery storage [$300/kW]
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Maximum $10,000 total
How load displacement works
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Solar energy powers your home during the day
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Extra energy is stored in a home battery
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Battery supplies power in the evening or during peak rates
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No electricity is exported to the grid
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Benefits of solar + battery systems
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Eligible for Save on Energy rebates
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Up to $5,000 for solar
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Up to $5,000 for battery storage
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Lower upfront cost after rebates
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Improved self-consumption
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Optional backup power during outages
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Reduced reliance on the electrical grid
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Limitations​​​​
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No net metering credits for excess solar production
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System size is limited to your home’s load
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Lower lifetime savings compared to net metering in most cases
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Must remain zero-export for the life of the system to keep rebates

WHICH SOLAR SYSTEM IS BEST
FOR HOMEOWNERS
Choose
Solar Net Metering
if:
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You want maximum lifetime savings
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Your roof can support a larger solar array
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You plan future upgrades (EVs, heat pumps)
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You prefer simplicity and utility credits
Choose
Solar + Battery Load Displacement
if:
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You want lower upfront costs using rebates
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Backup power is a priority
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You prefer energy independence over export credits
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Your electrical usage is consistent year-round

FINAL THOUGHTS - Net metering vs battery-based solar
For most homeowners, solar net metering delivers the highest financial return over 20–30 years. However, solar + battery load displacement systems become attractive when Save on Energy rebates and backup power are important factors.
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The best system depends on:
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Your electricity usage
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Budget and financing preferences
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Resiliency needs
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Long-term energy plans
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Thinking About Going Solar?
A professional site assessment can determine:
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Which system delivers the best ROI for your home
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Whether rebates or net metering make more sense
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Optimal system sizing and battery options
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