Solar panels in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown is one of the best cities in Canada for residential solar energy. Solar panels in Charlottetown produce an average of 1,103 kWh of electricity per year for every 1 kW of solar capacity installed. This means a typical 10 kW residential system generates approximately 11,030 kWh annually – enough to offset most or all of a household’s electricity consumption. The Gulf of St. Lawrence maritime climate provides abundant sunlight, and PEI’s relatively flat terrain means fewer shading issues compared to other provinces. Cold winter temperatures actually improve panel efficiency, helping maintain strong year-round production.

Maritime Electric charges 14.37¢/kWh for the first 2,000 kWh consumed per month, with a lower rate of 11.42¢/kWh for additional consumption, plus a $24.57/month service charge (effective March 1, 2025). PEI has the 6th highest electricity costs among Canadian provinces, and rates have increased over 12% in recent years with further increases expected. By going solar, Charlottetown homeowners can save approximately $1,500 per year on electricity costs. Over a 25-year system lifespan, those savings grow as electricity rates continue to rise.

Charlottetown residents benefit from PEI’s Net Metering program, which provides full 1:1 credits at the retail electricity rate for excess solar energy exported to the grid. Systems up to 100 kW are eligible, and credits are applied to your Maritime Electric bill with annual expiry on October 31st. The PACE Atlantic financing program is available in Charlottetown, offering 0% interest loans over 15 years for up to $40,000 or 15% of property value – making solar accessible with no upfront cost. The efficiencyPEI Solar Electric Rebate Program ($0.50/watt, max $5,000 for homeowners) has been paused since September 5, 2025, pending 2026-27 funding approval – check efficiencypei.ca for updates on resumption. The Energy Efficiency Loan Program (up to 100% of cost at 5% over up to 15 years) currently requires efficiencyPEI rebate pre-approval, which is also paused. The federal Canada Greener Homes Grant and Loan are both closed to new applicants.