What if Canada invested in solar energy? by Radio-Canada

As Canada races to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, rooftop solar emerges as a transformative yet underutilized solution for doubling electricity production. With vast untapped potential, solar panels on viable rooftops alone could meet a quarter of the nation’s electricity demand. Despite misconceptions about sunlight scarcity in this northern country, cities like Regina and Montreal receive more annual sunshine than leading solar nations like Germany and Japan. Advances in photovoltaic efficiency and falling costs have made solar more accessible, with benefits including decentralized power, reduced environmental impact, and resilience against extreme weather. However, challenges remain, including snow-related inefficiencies, upfront costs, and integrating intermittent energy sources into Canada’s broader energy mix. Rooftop solar stands out as a scalable, socially acceptable option, particularly in provinces heavily reliant on fossil fuels, making it a key player in Canada’s journey to a sustainable energy future.