Overview

Are you exploring ways to lower your energy expenses through solar energy adoption? Ready Solar Inc’s local solar installation specialists have written this guide to answer your questions. Here, we break down what net zero means, how it works, and how you can benefit. The best part? It’s all a lot more straightforward than you might think.

Highlights

Introduction

Net zero homes are transforming how we British Columbians think about energy efficiency, sustainability, and monthly utility bills. With BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program (formerly known as Net Metering) offering 10 cents per kilowatt-hour for excess solar energy, there’s never been a better time to explore whether a new net zero home (or retrofitting your current one) is right for you.

What Is a Net Zero Home?

A net zero home produces all the energy needed for one year of operation through ultra-efficient design and on-site renewable energy (most commonly solar power). These homes dramatically reduce carbon emissions and nearly eliminate utility bills.

Unlike traditional houses that depend entirely on external energy sources, net zero homes are engineered to minimize energy consumption and maximize energy generation. The result? A more comfortable, resilient, and environmentally responsible residence with long-term cost savings.

Which Features Make Your Home Net Zero?

Your home must include several integrated features and design strategies to achieve net zero status.

Requirements include:

  • High-performance insulation and airtightness to reduce heat loss and gain
  • Passive solar orientation to capture natural heat and light from the sun
  • Energy-efficient HVAC systems and appliances that minimize your electricity use
  • Smart energy use habits to reduce waste and optimize your energy consumption
  • On-site renewable energy generation, typically through rooftop solar panels

Are Net Zero Homes off the Grid?

Not necessarily. While net zero homes generate their own electricity, they typically remain connected to the electrical grid.

This grid connection allows for:

  • Drawing power during cloudy days or high-demand periods
  • Feeding surplus energy back to the utility for credits
  • Maintaining service during maintenance or low solar production

This setup balances energy independence with the reliability of grid access, making it the most practical solution for most BC homeowners.

What Are the Benefits of Living in a Net Zero Home?

Net zero homes promote home energy independence, reduce strain on aging electrical grids, and improve household resilience.

These energy-efficient homes typically offer:

  • Lower or eliminated energy bills
  • Increased property value
  • Better indoor air quality and comfort
  • Reduced carbon footprint
  • Protection from rising utility rates
  • Greater stability during power outages (especially with battery backups)
  • Eligibility for rebates and incentives

As more homes go net zero, entire communities will benefit from cleaner air, lower emissions, and stronger energy security.

Are Net Zero Households the Future of Residential Living?

British Columbia is leading the charge in Canada by pushing for more sustainable building standards. Through the BC Energy Step Code, the province has laid out a roadmap to require all newly-built residences to achieve net zero readiness by 2032. This means builders and homeowners will need to adopt higher levels of energy efficiency and incorporate renewable energy solutions, like solar energy, into their planning.

The move reflects BC’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from buildings, which currently account for a significant share of the province’s total carbon footprint.

Why Is Now the Best Time To Plan Your Net Zero Home in BC?

With rebate programs, energy credits, and evolving building codes, now is the best time to start your net zero journey.

Acting now means:

  • Lower installation and upgrade costs
  • Greater access to government incentives
  • More time to adapt before future code changes

Whether you’re building or renovating, going net zero means your home will be future-proof, cost-effective, and aligned with BC’s climate goals.

How Does Solar Power Support Net Zero Living?

Solar energy is the cornerstone of most net zero homes. Photovoltaic (PV) panels transform sunlight into energy, which powers lighting, appliances, heating, cooling, and hot water systems.

In British Columbia, solar energy adoption has skyrocketed thanks to falling panel costs, improved system efficiency, and generous incentive programs. With the right setup, your solar system can produce enough electricity annually to cover your entire energy use and sometimes generate a surplus.

Adding a battery backup improves self-reliance, allowing you to store excess power you can use during the night or when the grid goes down during an outage.

Can You Retrofit Your Existing Home to Net Zero?

Yes. Even older homes can be upgraded to meet net zero standards. The process typically starts with a home energy audit by a licensed contractor familiar with BC’s energy efficiency and solar regulations.

A net zero retrofit often includes:

  • Improving insulation and sealing air leaks
  • Replacing windows with energy-efficient models
  • Implementing high-efficiency HVAC solutions
  • Installing a solar panel system with optional battery backup
  • Enrolling in BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program
  • Monitoring and optimizing household energy use

Though retrofitting requires an upfront investment, the long-term energy savings, rebates, and increased property value make it a smart, future-ready move.

How Much Does It Cost To Make a Home Net Zero in BC?

Costs vary depending on your home’s size, age, and whether you’re building new or retrofitting. While new net zero homes may cost more upfront than conventional builds, they deliver much lower lifetime energy expenses.

Retrofit pricing depends on the work needed to upgrade your home’s insulation, HVAC systems, windows, and solar panels.

Fortunately, federal and provincial incentives can significantly reduce the financial burden, and BC Hydro’s 10 cents per kWh surplus energy credit adds another layer of long-term value.

How Does BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program Work?

BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program allows homeowners with eligible solar power generation and storage systems to connect to the electrical grid. When your home generates more power than it uses, overages get fed back to the grid for use elsewhere.

In return, BC Hydro provides energy credits applied to your utility bill. These credits add up by rolling over each month and offsetting your future energy use. Over time, they reduce your electricity costs and support your journey toward net zero living.

How Do You Earn 10 Cents per Kilowatt Hour From BC Hydro?

BC Hydro will purchase your surplus when your solar panels generate more power than you’ll use for one year. You’ll earn 10 cents per kilowatt hour for this excess electricity, which appears as a refund on your account.

This helps many homeowners recover their solar installation costs faster and creates a small revenue stream during high-production months.

How Do You Qualify for BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program?

To be eligible for BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program, your solar PV setup must meet the following criteria:

  • Maximum system size: 100 kilowatts or less
  • Eligible technology: Solar PV, wind, hydro, or bioenergy
  • Grid-tied system: Must be designed to operate in parallel with the utility grid
  • CSA-approved components: All inverters and equipment must meet Canadian electrical standards

Be sure to partner with a certified installer to design and implement a system that meets these requirements.

How Do You Get Set Up With BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program?

Interested in getting started with the Self-Generation Program? Here’s what you need to know about the process.

The Grid Connection Process

Once you’ve finalized your system design, you’ll need to apply for interconnection approval from BC Hydro. This ensures your setup is compatible with the existing grid and won’t create safety risks.

The general process includes:

  1. Submitting a technical interconnection request form
  2. Receiving approval and connection requirements
  3. Coordinating with your solar installer and an electrical contractor
  4. Installing the system and requesting inspection

Your solar contractor will typically handle these steps on your behalf and then arrange for BC Hydro to install your meter.

Metering Setup

Once your solar array is in place, BC Hydro will install a bi-directional smart meter to track how much electricity your home exports and imports. This meter records power sent to the grid from your system and power drawn from the grid during low-solar periods. BC Hydro uses this data to calculate monthly credits and determine surplus energy eligible for the 10 cents per kWh annual payout.

Permits and Inspections

Before connecting your system to the grid and going live, you’ll need:

  • Electrical permits from Technical Safety BC or your local municipality
  • A final inspection and approval from an authorized inspector
  • Confirmation that your system meets all safety and code requirements

This step is essential for compliance and occupant safety. Most experienced solar installation companies handle this part of the process, too.

Applying for the Self-Generation Program

You can apply directly through the BC Hydro application portal or work with your certified solar installer to handle the process on your behalf.

Here are the documents you’ll need:

  • Interconnection request
  • Single-line diagram and site plan
  • Proof of equipment compliance
  • Electrical inspection certificate (after installation)

Cut Your Energy Bill Today

Whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating your forever home, becoming net zero is an achievable goal. With BC Hydro’s 10 cents per kWh self-generation credit, you can turn your home into a self-powered asset that saves energy and earns money.

Are you ready to go net zero? Contact a trusted solar company today. Call Ready Solar Inc at (604) 262-6919 to begin designing your energy-independent future.