Going Solar in Manitoba in 2026
Manitoba may be known for cold winters, but the province actually receives excellent solar radiation during its long summer days. Manitoba Hydro's net metering program and provincial incentives make solar a worthwhile investment for homeowners across the province.
Note: The federal Canada Greener Homes Grant (closed February 2024) and Canada Greener Homes Loan (closed October 2025) are no longer accepting new applications. Manitoba homeowners can still benefit from Manitoba Hydro's net metering program and the PST exemption on solar equipment.
Below are the Manitoba solar incentives and rebates that may benefit you.
Manitoba Electricity Market
Primary utilities: Manitoba Hydro
Manitoba Hydro is the province's vertically integrated utility, generating most electricity from hydro dams and distributing power province-wide. Low regulated rates (often $0.09–$0.11/kWh) extend payback periods but also mean stable, predictable bills once solar is installed.
Manitoba exempts solar equipment from 7% PST and offers net metering through Manitoba Hydro for systems up to 1 MW. A 7 kW system ($20,000–$26,000 installed) can still save $700–$1,100 annually while locking in energy costs for 25+ years as rates gradually rise.
Manitoba Solar Incentives, Rebates, And Benefits
Canada Greener Homes Grant (Closed Feb 2024)
The Canada Greener Homes Grant closed to new applications in February 2024 (program ran May 2021–February 2024). No new applications are being accepted. Existing approved applicants may still complete their claims. Visit NRCan.gc.ca for information on any successor federal programs.
Canada Greener Homes Loan (Closed Oct 2025)
The Canada Greener Homes Loan closed in October 2025 (final application deadline was January 20, 2026). No new applications are being accepted. Visit NRCan.gc.ca for information on any successor federal financing programs.
Manitoba PST Exemption
Solar energy equipment is exempt from Manitoba's Provincial Sales Tax. This 7% exemption applies to solar panels, inverters, batteries, and installation materials, meaningfully reducing the total system cost for Manitoba homeowners.
Manitoba Hydro Net Metering
Manitoba Hydro offers a net metering program that allows residential customers to offset their electricity consumption with solar generation. Excess credits accumulate and are settled at the end of the annual billing period.
Manitoba Net Metering
Manitoba Hydro's net metering program allows customers with solar systems up to 1 MW to receive credits for excess generation at the avoided cost rate. While credits are valued somewhat below the retail rate compared to some other provinces, the program still provides meaningful savings for solar owners.
Additional Manitoba Solar Programs
Manitoba Hydro Power Smart Programs
Manitoba Hydro's Power Smart rebate programs offer incentives for a range of energy efficiency upgrades. Homeowners undertaking solar installations can often combine these programs with provincial incentives to maximize total savings.
Manitoba Solar Incentives — At A Glance
Manitoba's combination of PST exemption and net metering makes solar a worthwhile long-term investment. While payback periods average 12–16 years due to lower electricity rates, the 25+ year lifespan of solar panels ensures decades of free electricity.
Manitoba Solar FAQ
Is solar worth it with Manitoba Hydro's low rates?
Payback is longer (12–16 years) than Alberta or Saskatchewan, but Manitoba Hydro rates have risen over the past decade. Solar locks in a fixed generation cost and PST exemption reduces upfront price by 7%.
How does Manitoba Hydro net metering credit solar?
Excess generation is credited at Manitoba Hydro's avoided-cost rate and applied to future bills within the annual billing cycle. Credits do not expire monthly but are settled at year-end.
Can I combine Power Smart rebates with solar?
Power Smart offers insulation and heating rebates. An energy audit can identify upgrades that complement solar — improving envelope efficiency means a smaller, more cost-effective PV system.