Steps for solar city participation

Step 1: Register for the Solar City Halifax program 

  • Property owner registers online for the Solar City program
  • Solar city office confirms property owner eligibility


Step 2: Select a solar contractor and request a solar energy assessment

  • Property owner sources solar contractors to obtain a solar energy system proposal that best meets their energy consumption habits and obtain quotes
  • To help select a contractor, please refer to our Tips for Choosing a Solar Contractor and the Nova Scotia Go Solar Guide. A list of Atlantic Canadian solar companies registered with Solar Nova Scotia is available.
  •  If you intend on installing a solar electric system and obtaining the SolarHomes rebate, you are required to select an approved contractor from the Efficiency Trade Network.
  • Only portions of a solar system that have a total solar resource fraction (TSRF) of at least 70% will be approved for rebates and financing. This means that north-facing or heavily shaded solar panels may not be approved, depending on azimuth, slope and shading factors.
  • It is recommended that you obtain quotes from at least three solar contractors and evaluate each based on quality, experience and price as this is significant, long-term investment. The municipality is not responsible for selecting a contractor on behalf of Property Owners. It is solely the responsibility of the Property Owner to follow best practices while selecting a reputable contractor to complete the work.
  • When satisfied a with solar contractor and their proposal, property owner emails the Solar City office with selection


Step 3: Solar contractor review and execute property owner agreement

  • Solar City office completes a detailed third party review of the chosen solar contractor and system proposal 
  • Solar City office approves the financing for the proposed project and forwards the property owner an Energy Efficiency Equipment Participant Agreement for review and signature
  • An Energy Efficiency Equipment Participant Agreement must be signed by all legal property owners and executed by HRM before the install begins otherwise financing will not be approved.


Step 4: Solar Contractor completes installation

  • Solar contractor completes solar energy system installation


Step 5: Project Completion Report and Close Out 

Step 6: Payment

  • Solar city office reimburses solar contractors for work completed
  • Property owner receives a Local Improvement Charge (LIC) invoice and schedule of payments from the municipality
     

Are you a property owner? See the Property Owner Guide. Also see tips for selecting a contractor and installation professional.

Are you a solar contractor? See the Information for Solar Contractors.