Educational

Choosing the right inverter is a key decision when designing any off-grid, hybrid, or backup power system. With Victron Energy’s strong reputation for durability and smart system integration, many users narrow their search to three top models: MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, and Quattro. While all three provide high-quality inverter-charger functionality, they are built for different types of energy needs. If you're unsure which model fits your setup, this guide will walk you through their key features, differences, and ideal applications. Inverters vs. Inverter Chargers: What’s the Difference? Before diving into specific models, it helps to understand the difference between a pure inverter and...

As energy costs soar across Canada, more businesses are turning to solar to cut expenses and gain energy independence. But is commercial solar really worth the investment in 2025? The answer: more than ever. Whether you run a warehouse in Ontario, a retail space in Quebec, or a remote industrial site in Alberta, the financial and operational benefits of solar power continue to grow.  In this guide, we break down the return on investment (ROI), payback period, rebates, and savings potential for Canadian businesses in 2025. Why More Canadian Businesses Are Going Solar in 2025 Several factors are accelerating the...

As interest in solar energy grows across Canada, more people are considering systems for cabins, RVs, off-grid homes, and even commercial buildings. While installing solar panels might seem simple, there’s often confusion about which components are required and how they all fit together. One of the most common questions is: “Do I need both an inverter and a charge controller, or can one device do it all?” In this blog, we’ll walk you through the functions of each component, explore the pros and cons of combination units, explain key concepts like MPPT vs PWM, and offer guidance on how to size...

Across Canada, commercial electricity bills typically include two key charges: energy consumption (¢/kWh) and demand charges ($/kW). For businesses, especially those in provinces like Québec and Ontario, demand charges can make up 30–50% of the total monthly hydro bill. These are based on your facility’s highest short-term energy use — often the single largest 15-minute spike in a billing cycle. For example, in Québec, Hydro-Québec’s Rate M applies to facilities exceeding 50 kW in annual power draw, with demand charges around $15.96/kW. Larger users under Rate L face similar fees, and potential penalties if their draw exceeds contracted power during...

Canada is seeing a surge in homeowners and cabin owners investing in off-grid solar systems. A growing desire for energy independence, combined with falling solar panel prices and generous incentives, has pushed solar into the mainstream. Yet one component remains misunderstood: The Solar Inverter.  Whether you live in a remote cottage in Northern Ontario or a suburban home in Quebec, choosing between a hybrid solar inverter and a pure off-grid inverter will shape how your entire system performs. This guide walks you through every factor that matters so you can invest with confidence. Why the Inverter Matters More Than You...