Did anyone else get this in the mail? Essentially they install a solar panel system on your roof, and for 20 years they will pay you 80-120 per month with no maintenance costs. This works out to a portion of the hydro generated. At the end of 20 years you own the system outright and you get 100% of the hydro generated.
Sounds interesting but almost too good to be true?
In the case of my house, I have a good southerly roof that wouldnt even be noticeable from the front of the house. 2 neighbors to the side might think otherwise
They say it adds to the property value, but havent seen anything at arm's length to corroborate that statement. As long as it doesnt damage the roof (yes they will put holes in it and seal it up), or cause issues down the road, then why not?
Interested in peoples thoughts or knowledge on the subject....

One other thought Mike ... just wondering how that might effect your house insurance policy fees    and property tax assessment

does sound to good to be true ,but very interesting .....unless you have just had a new roof put on ,the shingles would need replacing possibly before the 20 years is up ....that could add a lot to the cost of a new roof ....plus if a tree,hail or something  damages it who pays ....the company ,your insurance   WHO just a few more thoughts...

Here’s another question: What happens if you sale your house? It might be like having an in ground swimming pool; some buyers want nothing to do with it.

Yes, very good question. They answer this if you dont use the program but just purchase or lease the system (in which case you get 100% of the hydro for yourself for the investment). You have the option of moving it with you (assuming new place is also suitable), or leaving it there for the new owners. So if it adds value to the property like any other improvements done (ie: decks, fences, A/C, etc) it shouldnt be a detriment. Who wouldnt want to save on hydro and end up with a $70K system for 'free'  that you own after 20 years. Which is not that long in the home ownership game.
Of course if problems occur or its not all its cracked up to be, it could be a totally different story, because you're locked into a 20 year contract. Bottom line - if you sell, the new owners would have to honour the remaider of the contract and enjoy the benefits.

...just curious
 
How much does your Hydro Ripoff Bill run you, on average per month?
 
 

 
...and I thought we paid too much.
We have a smallish house by todays standards, 3 bedrooms, full basement, 2 freezers, high eff furnace, air conditioning, - sometimes we run it most times we don't cause we have the lake breeze, deep well pump and water system incl a water softner, a full workshop, 3 computers - my better half brings work home, all electric appliances and our average monthly bill is $125.00.
We monitor when we do things - off peak -since the latest crap out of Hydro's give me all you've got vault is not in my best interest.
As far as water charges - I sympathize with you and those that are on city water. Reports from the subdivision next to me have there water bill close to $70.00 + per month.
 
 
 
 
 

Thanks IFH for posting these comments..
I did put in the application, but I have not heard back from them. When I get a chance to talk to them these are all questions, I will bring up. If I get any followup answers from them, I'll be sure to post them here.
I would cetainly need to consult the insurance company and factor in any related rate increase, and I think you're right about it being a taxable income.. even though we think of it as a rebate or discount, in fact you're selling hydro to offset you're own bill. My own opinion is these guys must be making a good chunk of money to offer something like this. I suspect we'll see more programs like this in the future and perhaps more attractive ones..You're property value is supposed to increase, so I wouldnt be surprised about property taxes possibly being affected.
You're capped at 10 Kw capacity under the microFIT program, so if you're losing efficiency over time that could be a factor. They are 'supposed' to provide all monitoring and maintenance, but I'm not sure it would cover this issue or not.
I did see an ad in I think kijiji for someone installing similar systems on a lease to own basis. Depending on the $$ involved, this may be a better way for someone that is serious about it..
The whole point of these programs are to remove the hurdles and red tape to provide clean power to homeowners.. I think its a start but these questions might mean its not quitre there yet. I still like the idea of using my roof to generate hydro.
On a side note, who's buying their hydro or gas through a 3rd party contract? Do you feel its worth it or a rip off? We had one a few years ago (for gas) that was an absolute rip off..You dont tend to hear of these programs as much these days.