Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight to electricity. We sell and install all the equipment for both off-grid and grid-tie systems. We have installed photovoltaic systems in municipalities all over the Lower Mainland. Our extensive experience with BC Hydro’s net metering will make your grid connection a painless experience.
We sell and install equipment from a wide variety of manufacturers including:
Photovoltaic Panels: Day4 Energy, Mitsubishi, Sharp, BP Solar, SolarFun
Inverters: Xantrex, Enphase, SMA, Outback, Fronius
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it cost?
We have designed and installed systems ranging from $15,000 – $90,000.
How will it work for my building?
The first step is to call us to ensure you have a good understanding of PV systems and that it’s the best system for your site. If it is the next step is to book an renewable energy assessment with VREC, which is a consultation that will provide you with a report on your building’s suitability for solar and what the costs and output would be for your specific conditions. Cost of this assessment is credited against your purchase of a system and installation from us. Book an Assessment
Is there enough sun here?
Yes, there is enough sun in rainy Metro Vancouver to generate electricity. The nations the generates the most electricity from photovoltaics is Germany and much of that country receives less annual sunlight than Vancouver. The system pictured here provides 100% of the electricity needed for this small, energy conserving household in North Vancouver.
Will it pay for itself?
A photovoltaic system will save enough money to recover the cost of the system in Washington State and Ontario (and Japan, and Germany and….). BC is not yet there, as the utility has not yet chosen not to offer a preferential rate for green electricity sold to the grid. Currently, a PV system is more like a hybrid vehicle; it saves energy, but is generally installed more for environmental or energy security benefits. It is a cost-effective and silent alternative to generators for a building not yet on or near the grid, or in some cases as a building-integrated application in substitution for wall sheathing.
Can I see one you’ve installed?
You can see and inspect one of our installations at the Society Promoting Environmental Conservation, and we will happily give you a tour of their system. The system shown at lower right is the first grid-tied PV system in Vancouver, designed and installed by VREC. (See our portfolio for more pictures of installations.)
Can I sell excess power to BC Hydro? Are there any grants or incentives?
Since 2004 BC Hydro has allowed renewable energy systems to connect directly to the grid, allowing you to use the grid as a rechargeable battery — selling surplus power to the grid to be used by others and taking it back when you need a little extra.
VREC has installed the first such systems in Vancouver and North Vancouver and has experience arranging for permits and grid interconnection in municipalities that are unfamiliar with photovoltaics.
The incentives currently for photovoltaics are is PST-exemption for the equipment and a small Live Smart grant.
Can I be completely independent in case the power goes out?
If you want to be completely off-grid or to have fuel and noise free backup power in an emergency, you can add a battery bank to store the power on-site for later use. VREC can also custom design back-up systems, for example a propane generator/PV hybrid; Once the power from the solar charged batteries is gone a gas generator will automatically turn on.
How do I get started on making my home solar electric?
Call VREC at 778-918-3973 to arrange for an assessment of your building for it’s suitability for this system and provide a quote, shade analysis and report. Cost for this consulting service (currently $200 for a residential photovoltaic system, $300 for multiple systems (e.g. photovoltaic and solar hot water) and $400 for commercial systems. This cost is credited against the price of a system purchased from and installed by VREC.
What do VREC clients think of their systems?
“I would like to thank you guys for all your help in getting the Solar system installed. It has been a few years since I started this project and it was awesome to see it actually happen and in just a few days. Your guys help certainly made the process easier, faster, and I feel much more confident that by going this route, as opposed to DIY, that the electrical work was done professionally and will pass inspection with flying colours. Darren did a great job of managing the project, getting everyone involved, and his attention to detail would make any Virgo happy.”
- Doug Horn, North Vancouver*
* Featured on the cover of Home Power magazine summer 2007.
