Solar Energy Statistics Canada 2026
Explore Canada's solar energy landscape: installed capacity, growth trends, and environmental impact data across all provinces.
8.4 GW
Total Installed Capacity
18%
National Growth Rate
43,000+
Solar Jobs (est.)
4.2M t
Annual CO2 Offset
Installed Solar Capacity by Province
| Province | Installed Capacity | Growth Rate | Avg System Size | Avg Irradiance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 4,800 MW | 12% | 8 kW | 1250 kWh/m²/yr |
| Alberta | 2,200 MW | 28% | 9 kW | 1350 kWh/m²/yr |
| British Columbia | 600 MW | 15% | 7 kW | 1200 kWh/m²/yr |
| Saskatchewan | 350 MW | 22% | 9 kW | 1350 kWh/m²/yr |
| Nova Scotia | 180 MW | 18% | 8 kW | 1250 kWh/m²/yr |
| Quebec | 150 MW | 10% | 7 kW | 1200 kWh/m²/yr |
| New Brunswick | 70 MW | 14% | 8 kW | 1250 kWh/m²/yr |
| Manitoba | 50 MW | 8% | 7 kW | 1300 kWh/m²/yr |
| Prince Edward Island | 30 MW | 12% | 7 kW | 1250 kWh/m²/yr |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 20 MW | 6% | 7 kW | 1100 kWh/m²/yr |
Solar Growth Trends in Canada
Canada's solar industry has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, driven by falling panel costs, strong federal incentives, and growing consumer awareness. The federal 30% Clean Technology ITC, introduced to support clean energy adoption, has been a major catalyst.
Alberta leads in growth rate at 28%, driven by high solar irradiance (1,350 kWh/m²/year), competitive electricity rates, and innovative programs like the Solar Club and municipal CEIP financing. Ontario maintains the largest total capacity at 4,800 MW, primarily from its earlier feed-in-tariff program.
Looking ahead, continued electrification of transportation and heating is expected to drive further solar adoption. The combination of EVs, heat pumps, and battery storage is creating a new wave of residential solar installations focused on energy independence and cost management.
Environmental Impact
4.2M
Tonnes CO2 offset annually
910K
Cars equivalent removed
12.7B
kWh clean energy/year
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