Client: Private Homeowner
Location: St. Catharines, Ontario
Project Type: Residential Solar + Energy Retrofit
System Size: 10 kW (20-panel rooftop solar array)
Purpose: Lower utility bills, replace aging systems, and future-proof for all-electric living
This mid-century home in St. Catharines was due for major upgrades. Rising energy costs, aging infrastructure, and inefficient appliances prompted the homeowner to pursue a full energy retrofit—with a long-term goal of moving off gas entirely.
Informed Energy Solutions worked with the homeowner to bundle a new solar array, roof replacement, electric water heating system, and window upgrades into one streamlined renovation using the Canada Greener Homes Loan. The result is a modernized home that produces its own power and is ready for future EV charging and battery storage.
The home’s roof was nearing the end of its life, and its aging windows and gas-fired hot water tank were driving up monthly utility costs. The homeowner wanted a comprehensive upgrade but didn’t want to take on high-interest loans or manage multiple contractors.
Bundling the project under one umbrella while qualifying for available incentives and zero-interest financing was key to making the retrofit financially viable.
Informed Energy handled everything from energy audit booking and paperwork to installation and system commissioning. A new roof was installed using solar-ready shingles, followed by a 16-panel rooftop solar array and a high-efficiency electric on-demand water heater. Aging windows were upgraded at the same time to reduce heating and cooling losses.
Installed System: 10 kW rooftop solar array
Design Consideration: Oversized inverter to allow for future panel expansion
Financing: Canada Greener Homes Loan & energy audit rebates
The solar system now offsets nearly all of the home’s electrical use, aside from the nominal monthly service fee. Switching from a rented gas water heater to an electric unit eliminated a $90/month expense, while improving overall energy efficiency.
The home is now positioned to fully transition off fossil fuels. With an upgraded panel and oversized inverter already in place, the homeowner can easily add an EV charger or battery backup in the coming years—without needing to reconfigure the system.
This project showcases how a comprehensive energy retrofit can transform an aging home into a future-ready, high-performance residence. By combining solar generation with other key efficiency upgrades, the homeowner dramatically lowered their carbon footprint while increasing comfort and long-term property value.
