Solar-generated energy has grown fast in Canada over the past 30 years. Older technology once made it difficult to generate enough power in northern climates, but advances in efficiency and design now make solar energy practical across the country — even in Alberta’s cold winters. If you are exploring solar panels in Calgary, these updated statistics show why adoption is rising faster than ever.
How Much Solar Energy Is Generated in Canada
As of 2024, Canada’s total installed solar capacity exceeds 3,000 megawatts (MW), according to the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA). Growth continues each year, with Alberta leading national expansion and accounting for the majority of new utility-scale installations. Between 2022 and 2024, over 1,000 MW of new capacity was added, driven by both residential rooftop systems and large solar farms.
National initiatives like Energy Efficiency for Homes and Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) have made it easier for homeowners to invest in renewable energy while reducing upfront costs. This aligns with Canada’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, outlined by the Government of Canada’s Renewable Energy Framework.
Provincial Highlights
Alberta remains Canada’s fastest-growing solar market, generating more than 60% of all new national capacity. With abundant sunshine and open land, the province has seen major projects like the Claresholm Solar Park (132 MW) and additional multi-hundred-megawatt farms now under construction. Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario continue to expand smaller distributed generation projects, while Nova Scotia and Quebec are ramping up community-scale solar programs.
Average solar output can vary by region: in winter months like December, arrays may generate around 45–50 kWh per kW installed, while in spring and summer, that number can rise to more than 120 kWh per kW. Overall, Canada’s solar potential remains strong, particularly across the Prairie provinces.
Recent Developments and the Future of Solar
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) World Energy Outlook 2024, solar energy is now the lowest-cost source of new electricity generation worldwide — and Canada is positioned to capitalize on that shift. Alberta’s deregulated electricity market, combined with federal incentives, has created ideal conditions for investment in renewable infrastructure.
Looking ahead, CanREA projects that Canada will need to install an average of 5,000 MW of new wind and solar annually through 2050 to meet its net-zero commitments. With provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia leading adoption, Canada is on track to transform its energy mix over the next decade.
Join Canada’s Solar Movement
If you’re ready to take the next step toward cleaner, lower-cost energy, Panel Upgrade Experts can help design and install a system tailored to your property. We’ve been serving Calgary homeowners since 2013, providing professional solar installations, electrical panel upgrades, and reliable long-term service. Visit our verified Solar Alberta listing or request your free solar quote today.
