How Import Tariffs Are Affecting Solar Prices For Canadian Businesses

Canadian businesses considering solar installations may be experiencing some uncertainty around costing due to news of tariffs and threats of new tariffs- particularly on products from the United States. One of the most common questions we get is regarding how the American tariffs will affect the pricing of our solar projects for our clients across Ontario. These tariffs, applied to certain imported photovoltaic (PV) panels, manufacturing products like aluminum, and other related components, have impacted the costs for solar projects in some parts of North America. Understanding how tariffs affect project costs – and how to navigate them – is essential for businesses planning to invest in solar energy. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how tariffs can affect the pricing of solar for projects, and how VCT Group’s proactive sourcing has helped limit the effects of the ongoing tariff changes. 

Understanding Solar Tariffs In Canada 

Tariffs on imported solar panels or components from certain countries can add significant upfront cost to a new solar installation. Businesses sourcing products or materials from locations with tariffs may face increased upfront expenses, extended payback periods, and an unpredictable return on investment. 

For example, companies that rely on manufacturing parts and some specific solar parts (cells & modules) from China and the United States, are facing rapidly changing tariffs that can dramatically affect the pricing of solar projects. Insulating your business from these possible cost changes could save your business hundreds of thousands of dollars on your project. 

How VCT Group is Reducing Tariff-Related Price Changes 

Ontario businesses considering solar installations with VCT Group will be minimally affected by any current or future import tariffs that could increase costs. For years, VCT Group has taken a global approach to procurement, sourcing panels, inverters, and electrical components strategically based on quality, value and availability. We look carefully at supply chains and make sure we’re considering tariffs as we procure our materials. This sourcing strategy ensures that your project is largely unaffected by tariffs applied to imported solar equipment. We also value transparency as a core principle here at VCT, so we’re always open and honest during the process. If we foresee tariff-related cost changes on the horizon, we’ll be the first to let you know. 

By relying on manufactured products from many source countries, VCT protects customers from potential global trade disruptions that could affect pricing elsewhere. Combined with federal and provincial incentives, this approach ensures that Canadian businesses can move forward with solar projects without unexpected tariff-related costs, while also supporting domestic manufacturing and supply chains.

FAQ: Solar Tariffs and Your Project 

Q: Will tariffs affect my solar project with VCT Group? 

A: Perhaps. VCT strategically sources panels, inverters, and other components from a variety of reputable supply chains, meaning you’re insulated from dramatic increases in cost due to tariffs from one country. This ensures your system is largely unaffected by import tariffs. If any tariff-related price changes do occur, we always notify you first. 

Q: Are there any components still subject to tariffs? 

A: Tariffs apply primarily to imported modules, manufacturing goods like aluminum for framing, and certain cells from specific countries. Balance-of-system components and locally manufactured products are generally not affected, so while some raw materials may be affected, we don’t predict dramatic price increases as a result. We are also transparent throughout the initial stages, so you’re never shocked by the end project cost. 

Q: How much could tariffs change my project ROI? 

A: For projects using tariff-impacted materials or products, upfront costs may increase modestly. By working with VCT Group, businesses can preserve predictable payback periods and maintain strong returns on investment with limited tariff-related project cost changes. Any increase in project cost will be discussed with you ahead of moving forward with projects.  

Q: Can I still access incentives and rebates? 

A: Yes – federal and provincial incentives, grants, and net metering programs continue to offset costs regardless of tariffs, further improving project economics. 

Q: Why choose VCT Group for solar in Ontario? 

A: VCT’s expertise ensures that your project uses reliable equipment that is optimized for Ontario’s unique conditions and maximizes both energy savings & sustainability benefits. We have over 17 years of experience driving innovation for Ontario businesses and developers. 

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Move forward with confidence on your solar project. Contact VCT Group to learn how your Ontario business can maximize savings and reduce exposure to import tariffs with intelligently-sourced, designed, and manufactured solar solutions from VCT Group.