Ontario man frustrated after spending $50,000 on solar panels, and he only saves $100 a month

When Scarborough homeowner Ovaldo Guzman decided to install solar panels on his roof four years ago, he thought he was making a smart, environmentally responsible investment. Like many Canadians, he wanted to “go green and save some money.”

But his $40,000 solar dream soon turned into a financial headache. Within a year, the system stopped working, and the company that installed it stopped responding. Guzman eventually paid another $10,000 for repairs.

“I didn’t get any money back or save money,” he told CTV’s Consumer Alert segment.

Guzman says his solar panels now save him about $100 a month on electricity, a modest return given his upfront costs. “No, never, never, never again,” he said when asked if he would recommend solar to others. “Solar panels are for Florida, Miami, places with sun all year. Here we have maybe four months, and that’s it.”

Solar Boom Meets Harsh Reality

Guzman’s story surfaces at a time when solar adoption in Canada is accelerating. More than 35,000 households across the country now generate their own electricity, according to Natural Resources Canada, and Ontario leads the way in residential installations.

Federal and provincial incentives, such as the Canada Greener Homes Loan (up to $40,000 interest-free) and the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program, have spurred demand. Yet experts say too many homeowners rush in without understanding the fine print.

According to the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), homeowners must evaluate not just the cost of panels but also the lifespan of their roof, the system warranty, and the reputation of the installer. “Solar can deliver strong savings when properly designed and maintained,” the organization notes, “but poor workmanship or misleading contracts can quickly erode those benefits.”

Insurance, Resale, and Maintenance

The Consumer Alert report also highlights risks that often go overlooked. Insurers may raise premiums or even deny claims if solar systems are installed without disclosure or outside eligibility guidelines.

“That could lead to a denied claim, a very costly mistake,” one expert warned.

Snow and ice buildup, animal nesting, and storm damage are also frequent concerns in Canada’s climate. In addition, solar panels increase a home’s rebuild value, which can push premiums higher.

Resale value presents another challenge.

Some potential buyers balk at inheriting maintenance obligations or lease agreements tied to solar systems. And if a roof replacement becomes necessary, owners must pay to remove and reinstall the panels, an often-overlooked cost.

Proceed, But With Caution

Solar energy remains one of the fastest-growing sources of power in Canada, providing about 1.6% of national electricity generation in 2024, a figure expected to triple by 2030. For many homeowners, the math still works, especially with modern high-efficiency panels and falling installation costs.

But as Guzman’s experience shows, going solar without research can backfire.

Before signing a contract, experts recommend getting multiple quotes, checking company credentials through the Better Business Bureau, confirming insurance coverage, and ensuring warranties include both equipment and labor.

As the clean-energy transition accelerates, more Canadians will face the same decision Guzman once did. His advice, though hard-earned, is simple: “Do your homework before you go green.”