Is Commercial Solar Worth It in Canada? ROI Breakdown for 2025
Posted by Tina Kassaeian on
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 commercial solar movement in Canada:
-
Rising electricity rates: Commercial energy costs have increased by 15–25% over the past five years in many provinces.
-
Federal and provincial incentives: Generous rebates, tax credits, and accelerated depreciation make solar more affordable.
-
Public pressure for sustainability: B2B customers, investors, and government contracts increasingly require clean energy commitments.
-
Battery technology improvements: Modern lithium battery storage extends solar benefits into nighttime and peak demand hours.
What Is the ROI on Commercial Solar in Canada?
Typical ROI Range: 8–15% annually
The return on investment depends on system size, energy usage, and location, but most Canadian businesses can expect:
-
Payback period: 6 to 10 years
-
System lifespan: 25+ years
-
Post-payback savings: Hundreds of thousands of dollars over system lifetime
Example ROI Breakdown (Ontario-based warehouse):
| Item | Estimate (100kW system) |
|---|---|
| Initial cost (before rebates) | $250,000 |
| Rebates & incentives | -$50,000 |
| Net cost | $200,000 |
| Annual savings on electricity | $22,000 |
| Payback period | 9 years |
| Total 25-year savings | $350,000+ |
Even better ROI can be achieved by adding battery storage for peak shaving and backup power.
How Battery Storage Increases ROI
With the rise of peak demand charges in commercial billing, batteries play a critical role in ROI.
-
Peak shaving: Batteries discharge during high-rate periods, reducing utility bills.
-
Grid independence: Store excess energy to use overnight or during outages.
-
EV integration: Pair with commercial EV charging stations for added long-term value.
Volts Energies offers lithium battery solutions, including modular systems for larger commercial setups, powered by brands like Pylontech and Elios.
What Incentives Are Available in 2025?
Canada Greener Homes Program: While mainly residential, some provinces offer commercial incentives through similar frameworks.
-
Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance (ACCA): Allows you to write off solar system costs faster.
-
Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit (30%) for businesses adopting solar.
Provincial programs:
Incentives change often, contact Volts Energies to learn what’s currently available in your region.
Who Should Invest in Commercial Solar?
Solar makes the most financial sense for:
-
Warehouses, manufacturing, or logistics centers
-
Retail locations and plazas
-
Farms and agri-businesses
-
Office buildings with high daytime energy usage
If your roof or land gets consistent sunlight and your utility bill exceeds $1,000/month, you're likely a good candidate.
How to Calculate Your Business’s Solar ROI
To get an accurate projection:
-
Audit your current energy usage
-
Request a site evaluation
-
Analyze potential savings, battery needs, and installation scope
Volts Energies offers free commercial solar consultations to help you calculate your payback period and long-term gains.
Why Choose Volts Energies for Your Commercial Solar Project?
At Volts Energies, we specialize in commercial and industrial solar + battery installations across Quebec and Ontario. Our services include:
-
Custom solar system design such as Li-Cube containers
-
Lithium battery integration (Elios, Pylontech)
-
Off-grid containerized solutions
-
Turnkey project management from audit to installation
Ready to start saving? Contact us today for a free site evaluation.
Final Thoughts: Is Commercial Solar Worth It?
Yes and increasingly so. Between tax incentives, high energy rates, and long-term savings, solar has become a smart, profitable move for Canadian businesses.
If you’re thinking about solar in 2025, don’t wait. The earlier you invest, the sooner you start saving.