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Which Canadian Cities Have the Highest Solar Potential?
Sept 26, 2025 by VCT Group
Canada’s solar future is much more promising than many assume. With advances in solar technology and growing demand for commercial solar projects across Ontario, businesses are evaluating which cities offer the best return on investment. This article uses authoritative data to help businesses make smart energy decisions, and showcase the immense benefits commercial solar power can bring to your business or development.
Understanding Canada’s Natural Solar Resource
Canada’s solar energy potential is measured in terms of photovoltaic potential, meaning the average amount of sunlight received on a given surface over time. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) provides detailed solar insolation maps that illustrate the significant regional differences across the country. While southern provinces typically receive the highest annual solar radiation, even areas with lower averages can generate meaningful electricity when paired with modern photovoltaic (PV) technologies.
For businesses, understanding solar insolation is critical: it informs system sizing, predicts energy output, and helps forecast financial returns. With Canada’s advancements in solar tech – panels that are increasingly efficient and capable of producing power in low-light conditions and snow – commercial solar projects are more viable than ever. The combination of accurate solar data, technological improvements, and supportive policy environments makes this an ideal time for Canadian businesses to consider solar investments.By examining these resources, businesses and developers can better identify regions where solar offers the strongest return-on-investment, aside from the existing carbon reduction and ESG benefits they provide.
Top Canadian Cities by Solar Potential
Solar potential in Canada varies significantly by geography. According to the Canada Energy Regulator’s 2018 findings regarding solar potential, Saskatchewan offers the highest solar potential – followed closely by Alberta, Ontario, and Manitoba. Cities like Calgary, Regina, and Winnipeg are often at the top of national solar rankings. Even outside of the Prairies, cities such as Ottawa, Toronto, and Mississauga demonstrate strong solar potential that rivals or exceeds parts of Europe and the northern United States, where solar is already widely adopted.
A common myth noted about solar is that there is a lack of solar potential in Canada due to a variety of factors, but mostly revolving around weather & climate. We note that this is a myth, because in a 2006 study by Natural Resources Canada, it was found that the solar power potential average of the country rivals that of a country like Germany (where solar adoption is far greater), while a province like Saskatchewan even rivals Miami’s solar potential. While climate certainly is a factor when determining the viability of solar power production in an area, the advancement of solar PV technology has led to more adaptable panels that can provide solar generation year round.
Top Major Canadian Cities by Solar Potential
| Major City | Average PV Potential (kW.h/m2) |
|---|---|
Regina, SA |
7.15 |
Saskatoon, SA |
7.10 |
Calgary, AB |
6.70 |
Winnipeg, MB |
6.61 |
Edmonton, AB |
6.50 |
Ottawa, ON |
6.09 |
Montreal, QC |
6.04 |
Toronto, ON |
5.94 |
Mississauga, ON |
5.93 |
Fredericton, NB |
5.76 |
Quebec City, QC |
5.75 |
Saint John, NB |
5.68 |
Victoria, BC |
5.68 |
Data source (Natural Resource Canada)
What This Means for Commercial Solar in Ontario
Ontario stands out as a province where solar’s potential aligns with pressing business needs. Despite a colder climate, much of southern Ontario receives solar resources comparable to leading European markets. For Ontario businesses, solar is a strategic investment that reduces operating costs while mitigating risk from rising utility costs. With federal, provincial, and municipal programs that offer incentives, the financial return on investment is stronger than ever.
However, the case for solar extends beyond financial savings. For organizations, it represents a direct path to decarbonization. By generating clean energy onsite, businesses can significantly cut carbon emissions, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and demonstrate measurable progress toward net-zero commitments. In Ontario, adopting solar as part of a decarbonization strategy not only lowers a company’s environmental footprint but also builds credibility with customers, communities, and investors who increasingly prioritize climate leadership. Companies that act now will position themselves as early leaders in Ontario’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
Solar’s Role in Canada’s Energy Transition
The outlook for solar across Canada – and especially Ontario – is brighter than ever. Advancements in PV technology have made commercial solar more efficient and adaptable regardless of climate. Combined with federal and provincial financial incentives, the benefits of net metering, and Canada’s immense land availability for larger-scale projects, solar is becoming increasingly practical and profitable. For commercial property owners, manufacturers, and developers, this represents a critical opportunity: investing in solar today not only delivers immediate energy and cost savings but also ensures long-term resilience in a shifting energy market.
Ready to Explore Solar for Your Business?
Our team specializes in helping Ontario companies implement solar solutions that reduce costs, improve sustainability, and future-proof operations. Contact us today to learn how your business can benefit from Canada’s growing solar potential.