Understanding Residential Solar Project in Québec

A clear, expert guide to how residential solar projects work in Québec

With the new solar subsidies announced by Hydro-Québec for 2026, interest in residential solar projects is rising fast. Many homeowners are now asking how a solar project actually starts, what the technical steps are, what they need to prepare, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
In this episode of the podcast Solar Warrior Fighting the Dark Side, Floréal Villanova sits down with Fred, owner of Alt-Énergie, to walk through the entire process in a simple, structured, and field-based way.

The discussion breaks down every key step a homeowner goes through when planning a solar installation in Québec, including:

  • the first point of contact,
  • understanding real electricity needs,
  • technical site assessment,
  • planning and preparation,
  • choosing the right equipment,
  • on-site installation,
  • commissioning,
  • and all the practical details that ensure a smooth project.

Fred shares what he sees every day as an installer: good practices, recurring client questions, common pitfalls, and the factors that truly influence the success of a project. The episode also highlights the upcoming impact of Hydro-Québec’s new subsidies: what homeowners should anticipate, how to prepare, and how these incentives will shape the way residential solar projects are approached in 2026.

As co-founder of Solutions Otonomi and a solar specialist with more than 15 years of experience, Floréal Villanova adds a complementary perspective: the importance of accurately qualifying client needs, providing clarity throughout the process, and helping homeowners navigate a market where misinformation is still widespread.

The goal of this episode is simple: to give homeowners a clear, realistic, and accessible overview of what truly happens when you decide to install solar panels in Québec. No unnecessary jargon, no unrealistic promises — just an honest conversation grounded in field experience and the daily reality of professionals who manage solar projects from start to finish.

This episode is an essential resource for anyone considering a residential solar project, exploring their options, or looking to better understand the full process before getting started.

Find this episode on your favorite platforms as well:

Spotify

Apple Podcast

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