Solar panels are appealing — and since 2026, a new Hydro-Québec rebate finally changes the math. Here’s how net metering works, the new financial help, and what it means on the electrical side.
Net metering, in plain terms
In Quebec, residential panels work with Hydro-Québec’s net metering. When your panels produce more than you use, the surplus is fed to the grid and “credited” to your account. When you use more (at night, in winter), you draw on those credits. Your meter, in a way, runs backward.
What to know
Credits in kWh
Your surpluses are converted into energy credits, at the same rate — not cash.
A seasonal bank
You build credits in summer (strong sunlight) to spend in winter (high consumption).
No cheque from Hydro
Unused surpluses aren’t paid out. The goal: size to cover your consumption, without overproducing.
Hydro-Québec’s solar rebate
This is the game-changer: since March 31, 2026, Hydro-Québec financially supports residential solar self-generation.
Installations completed since June 30, 2025 may be eligible, and the application is made through the LogisVert platform. Amounts and conditions change — always check the current program before buying.
Is it worth it in Quebec?
Let’s be honest: electricity here is among the cheapest in North America, which lengthens the payback. But the new rebate changes a lot: by covering up to 40 % of the cost ($1,000/kW), it noticeably shortens the payback time. Solar becomes all the more attractive if you aim for autonomy, expect rate increases, or value the environmental side. Worth evaluating project by project, numbers in hand.
What it involves at home
A solar system isn’t just panels on the roof. You need an inverter, a connection to the electrical panel, a disconnect switch, and a net metering agreement with Hydro-Québec. All of this must be done by a licensed electrical contractor, to code — it’s also the condition for an approved, safe… and rebate-eligible connection.
Solar during an outage: the surprise
Many don’t know: a grid-tied solar system shuts off automatically during a power outage, even in full sun. It’s not a defect — it’s a safety (“anti-islanding”) that stops your production from feeding back into the grid and endangering Hydro line workers. To keep power during an outage, you need to add a battery with the right transfer equipment.
How many panels for your home?
It depends on your annual consumption, your roof’s surface and orientation. With net metering, the goal is to cover your consumption without overproducing (surpluses aren’t paid in cash). A south-facing, well-exposed, low-shade roof gets the most. We size from your real consumption data — not a generic number.
The connection, by the book
CMEQ-certified company holding an RBQ licence. We handle the electrical side of your solar project — connection, protection, compliance and coordination with Hydro-Québec. Serving Greater Montréal, Laval and the North Shore.
A solar project in mind?
We assess the electrical side and the grid connection. Free quote.
Your questions about solar
Is there a rebate for solar in Quebec?+
Yes. Since March 31, 2026, Hydro-Québec offers $1,000 per kW installed, up to 40 % of the eligible cost, for residential systems up to 40 kW. The application is made through the LogisVert platform.
Are solar panels worth it in Quebec?+
Cheap electricity lengthens payback, but the new rebate (up to 40 % of the cost) noticeably shortens it. It’s calculated project by project.
How does Hydro-Québec net metering work?+
Your production surpluses are fed to the grid and credited in kWh to your account at the same rate. You draw on those credits when you use more than you produce.
Do I need an electrician for solar?+
Yes. The panel connection, inverter, disconnect and net metering agreement must be done by a licensed contractor, to code — it’s also required for the rebate.
Do solar panels work in winter?+
Yes, but less: production drops with short days and snow. That’s why you build credits in summer for winter.
Do I need a battery with solar panels?+
Not for day-to-day net metering. A battery is needed to keep power during an outage, or to aim for more autonomy.
Do solar panels work during a power outage?+
No, not without a battery: a grid-tied system shuts off automatically during an outage, for the safety of Hydro line workers. A battery with transfer changes that.
What roof orientation is best for solar?+
Ideally due south, well tilted and shade-free. East and west also work, with slightly reduced output.
