How do residential solar panel systems work?

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. When sunlight hits a solar panel, the PV cells in the panel absorb the energy, creating a flow of direct current (DC) electricity.

How long do residential solar panel systems last?

While residential solar panels generally last 25 to 40 years, the actual lifespan of your system will depend on a number of factors, such as its exposure to the elements, temperature, maintenance and more.

How big are the solar panels used for residential homes?

Solar panels can vary in size and weight, depending on the brand and panel availability. Typically, residential solar panels span 66 x 40 inches for the panel, and 1.25 x 1.6 for the frame, weighing roughly 42 pounds. For more accurate information, reach out to a reputable solar provider who would be able to give you a free quote and specifications of what solar panels are being used.

How much does it cost to install solar panels on my home?

The cost of residential solar panel installation varies based on the size of your home and its energy needs. At Zeno, we understand that every home is different, which is why we maximize your space by designing a residential solar panel system around your property’s size and needs.

How much do solar panels used for residential homes weigh?

Residential solar panels typically weigh an average of around 42 pounds, but this will still depend on the brand and size of the panel itself. For more accurate information of the weight of the solar panels, reach out to a reputable solar provider for a FREE quote. They can provide you with the specifications of the panels used for your home.

Get $50k For Solar With The Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP)

The Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) makes going solar easy, with no upfront cost and low-interest financing through your property tax bill.

Looking to make energy upgrades or install solar panels in your home or business? The Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) helps Calgarians finance energy-efficient and renewable energy projects with low-interest, no-upfront-cost financing—paid back conveniently through your property taxes.

Zeno is proud to be a city-approved CEIP contractor, helping you take advantage of this powerful program with ease.

What Is the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP)?

CEIP is a City of Calgary initiative that provides flexible financing for energy upgrades to residential and commercial properties. The program helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve property efficiency, and eliminate the upfront cost barrier of major energy projects.

Program Highlights

Up to $50,000 in financing (residential)
3.75% interest rate (2025)
Up to 20-year repayment through your property taxes
Optional 10% incentive back on project costs
No upfront payment and no penalties for early repayment
Financing is tied to the property, not the individual

Open to both homeowners and business owners

That means your solar system isn’t just saving you money. It’s making you money.

How CEIP Works for Calgary Homeowners

Whether you want to install solar with Zeno, upgrade insulation, or replace your furnace, CEIP makes it affordable and hassle-free.

Step-by-Step Residential Process

Pre-Qualification
- All registered property owners must be on board and sign the application.
- You must be up to date on your property taxes.
Pre-Project EnerGuide Evaluation
- A certified energy advisor will assess your home’s energy performance and provide a report.
Get Multiple Quotes
- The city recommends getting at least three quotes from CEIP-qualified contractors.
- Zeno is listed in the CEIP Qualified Contractor Directory.
Submit Your Project Application
- You’ll outline the proposed upgrades and financing needs.
Sign Agreements
- Includes a Clean Energy Improvement Agreement and Project Agreement with the City and Zeno.
Install Your Upgrades
- Work must be completed by a CEIP-qualified contractor. Zeno will also ensure all required permits are secured.
Post-Project EnerGuide Evaluation
- Confirms the energy savings after installation.
Start Repayment
- The cost is added to your property tax bill and spread over the agreed term.

Next application window opens May 28 at 9:00 AM and is limited to 100 applicants.

Eligible Residential Upgrades Include:

Solar PV systems (panels, inverters)
High-efficiency HVAC and water heaters
Attic, wall, and foundation insulation
ENERGY STAR® windows and doors
Air sealing and ventilation
Smart thermostats (if paired with HVAC upgrades)

How CEIP Works for Calgary Businesses

Commercial property owners can also leverage CEIP to reduce long-term operating costs and energy usage. The process is similar to residential but includes a few business-specific steps.

Step-by-Step Commercial Process

Pre-Qualification
- Ensure your property tax account is in good standing.
- Confirm property eligibility and ownership.
Energy Audit or Benchmarking
- Complete an ASHRAE Level 2 Energy Audit or submit benchmarking data to identify savings opportunities.
Project Planning and Application
- Select CEIP-eligible upgrades and a qualified contractor.
Approval and Agreement
- Enter into a Clean Energy Improvement Agreement and Project Agreement.
Construction and Post-Audit
- Install upgrades and complete follow-up verification.
Repayment
- Begins through your commercial property tax bill.

Eligible Commercial Upgrades Include:

Rooftop and ground-mounted solar PV
High-efficiency mechanical systems
LED and energy-efficient lighting
Building envelope upgrades
Energy management and control systems

Permits and Contractor Requirements

All CEIP-financed work must be:

Completed by a CEIP-qualified contractor
Compliant with all necessary City permits (Zeno will handle this on your behalf)

Why CEIP Matters

By joining CEIP, you’re:

Improving your home or business value
Lowering monthly energy bills
Reducing carbon emissions
Supporting Calgary’s goal of becoming net-zero by 2050

All with zero upfront cost and flexible repayment terms.

Go Solar with Zeno Through CEIP

Zeno is a proud CEIP-qualified solar provider. We make it simple—from your EnerGuide evaluation to install and paperwork—so you can upgrade stress-free.

Book your CEIP solar consultation with Zeno now

Let us help you unlock clean energy financing, maximize incentives, and power your property sustainably.