To achieve net-zero emissions and meet growing electricity demand, Canada needs to increase its clean power capacity, including rooftop solar. However, current regulations in many jurisdictions restrict how much power rooftop solar systems can generate and prevent homeowners from selling excess electricity back to the grid for cash, only offering bill credits instead. Darren Chu of Utility Network and Partners notes that these restrictions frustrate homeowners eager to install more solar panels. The regulations exist partly because the grid was designed for one-way power flow, and accommodating two-way flow requires costly infrastructure upgrades. Despite these challenges, experts like Martin Boucher and Patrick Murphy argue that modernizing the grid to support distributed solar energy could enhance efficiency and equity, especially in underserved communities. Additionally, as technology advances, utilities are exploring new models, such as dynamic pricing and virtual power plants, to better integrate distributed solar and balance supply and demand. Francis Bradley of Electricity Canada suggests that a future where consumers also act as “prosumers” — generating and selling electricity back to the grid — could help address variability in solar power and increase grid reliability. Ultimately, while utilities may face short-term revenue losses from net metering, there is a recognition of the long-term potential benefits of distributed solar energy.

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