Solar Innovation Quebec: at the heart of Quebec's energy revolution


10 min read

Innovation-Solaire-Québec-au-cœur-de-la-révolution-énergétique-québécoise Innovation Solaire Canada Inc

In Quebec, energy is not just a resource: it is an identity.
It's what heats us in winter, connects us from one region to another, structures our local economies, and fuels our industries. Today, this identity is being reinvented. Innovation Solaire Québec's ambition is to propel the energy revolution and position the province as a leader in the solar sector. Recent initiatives, including the call for tenders for 300 MW of solar projects, indicate a turning point for better harnessing Quebec's solar potential. Hydro-Québec aims to reach 3,000 megawatts of solar energy by 2035, marking a key milestone in this transition. The addition of solar energy helps diversify Quebec's energy mix, which is primarily dominated by hydroelectricity. The transition to self-generation of solar energy is taking shape—and Innovation Solaire Québec is playing a central role in this movement.

Our mission: to make solar energy accessible, profitable, and adapted to the Quebec context , through an integrated approach that unifies engineering, automation, professional documentation, certified components, and a network of regional installers, while supporting the structuring of Quebec's solar energy sector. Our long-term objectives are based on a strong commitment to transforming solar energy into a driver of the energy transition and addressing Quebec's climate challenges. Solar energy can contribute to achieving Quebec's greenhouse gas emission reduction targets by 2030. This initiative marks the beginning of a new era and underscores the scope of the solar energy movement at the provincial level. However, photovoltaic solar energy still represents less than 1% of the province's energy mix.

The energy context in Quebec

Quebec has mastered hydroelectric power like few other regions in the world—technical expertise that places Hydro-Québec at the heart of our provincial energy independence. Faced with the concrete realities of evolving consumption and the strategic need to diversify our energy sources, Quebec is now integrating solar energy with the same technical rigor that characterizes our energy approach. Installing solar panels on residential and commercial rooftops addresses measurable needs: enhanced security of supply and direct participation of citizens and businesses in local production. This transition is based on concrete facts rather than abstract promises. The cost of production for grid-connected installations is expected to decrease to 5¢ to 6¢ per kilowatt-hour by 2030, making solar energy even more accessible. Solar energy represents less than 1% of Quebec's energy mix, but it is now positioned as a complementary solution perfectly suited to Quebec conditions—practical, cost-effective, and proudly rooted in our local reality. Hydro-Québec launched its first call for tenders for 300 MW in May 2025. The expansion of the solar sector is expected to stimulate employment, particularly in construction trades and clean technologies.

Our mission: to democratize solar energy in Quebec

Solar energy has become a strategic response to economic, environmental, and resilience challenges, enabling substantial savings on energy bills. Hydro-Québec will offer subsidies for the installation of solar panels starting in 2026. Hydro-Québec will offer a subsidy of $1,000 for each kilowatt of solar power installed.

But for most families and organizations, switching to solar power seems complex: permits, interconnection, standards, equipment selection, financing, and installation. Analyzing your Hydro-Québec account, particularly your bills, allows you to precisely size the solar system to meet your actual needs. Homeowners should also assess their annual energy consumption before installation to ensure an optimal solution. Analyzing solar potential involves evaluating the roof's orientation and slope, as well as any shading around it. Learning about solar panel technologies is recommended before installation.

Our role is to simplify. We support our clients from the initial assessment to commissioning , with a structured, clear, and transparent approach, taking into account your energy transition goals and contributing to the realization of concrete projects. We leverage local renewable resources and advanced technologies to maximize savings, the share of solar energy in your consumption, and the overall efficiency of your installation.

A 100% turnkey service, from planning to production

We handle all stages of the project:

  • Consumption analysis and energy study
  • Financial simulation, savings forecasting and investment analysis
  • Technical plans conforming to Canadian standards
  • Management of municipal permit applications
  • Supply and logistics of certified equipment and advanced technology
  • Installation coordinated with qualified partners
  • Commissioning and post-installation monitoring

Throughout the project, we optimize resource utilization to ensure the performance and profitability of your installation.

One single project. One single point of responsibility.

projected savings over 25 years

Professional-grade engineering and financial documents

Each installation is supported by a complete technical and financial file :

  • Detailed financial presentation : ROI, projected savings over 25 years, Hydro-Québec tariff effects, subsidies, economic analysis.
  • Installation plans and electrical diagrams conforming to CSA, UL, CEC standards and the latest technology.
  • Permit application ready to submit , including labelling and compliance.
  • Precise timeline and transparent cost structure.
  • A detailed report accompanies each project, including an analysis of performance and savings achieved.

We don't just sell panels. We deliver energy systems that are ready to be accepted, installed, and efficient.

Using technology to create precise and effective solar proposals

Artificial intelligence at the service of performance and monitoring

Innovation is integrated into our operational process:

  • Automated design and configuration optimization
  • Predictive analysis of performance in cold climates
  • Integration of cutting-edge technology for monitoring and optimizing the performance of solar installations
  • Patrick , our AI agent, is available 7 days a week for customer support.
  • ISQ Client Portal to track your project in real time, access documents and communicate with the team

Our artificial intelligence performs predictive analyses several times a day to optimize energy performance and anticipate production peaks.

We also offer the L3 series of energy storage solutions, renowned for their reliability, safety and efficiency, ideal for demanding commercial applications.

AI does not replace humans. It enhances the accuracy, consistency, and availability of the service.

Boutique Solaire Québec: the national store for certified components

We also operate Boutique Solaire Québec , our national e-commerce platform:

This store helps to expand the portfolio of solar solutions available in Quebec.

Each component is CSA/UL certified and adapted to the Quebec climate. The store serves both individuals and professional installers .

By promoting access to advanced technologies and a diversified offering, Boutique Solaire Québec plays a key role in the structured development of the Quebec solar industry.

Corporation of Master Electricians (CMEQ)

Our certifications and our professional rigor

We operate within a strict technical framework:

  • Manufacturer certifications
  • Stardust Solar Accreditation
  • Installations performed by master electricians (CMEQ)
  • CSA, UL, CEC compliant
  • Hydro-Québec's complete interconnection and compliance files

In collaboration with Hydro-Québec, we affirm our commitment to respecting the highest standards of the solar industry in Quebec.

Trust is a process, not a promise.


Our strategic alignment with Hydro-Québec

Solar self-generation complements Quebec's energy model—it does not contradict it. It aligns with the government's energy transition objectives, which encourage the development of solar projects to meet provincial and federal climate targets. That's why all our systems are designed to operate in technical and regulatory compliance with Hydro-Québec's requirements. Net metering ensures a continuous supply by connecting self-producers to Hydro-Québec's grid, thereby strengthening the system's reliability and sustainability. The self-generation tariff allows customers to sell surplus energy at its full value.

In concrete terms:

  • Design compliant with network interconnection and return standards
  • Clear documentation to accelerate analysis and commissioning.
  • Responsible sizing , ensuring network security and stability.
  • Technical transparency , so that the client understands exactly how their system integrates with the provincial network
    Solar systems can reduce peak electricity demand at certain times of the day, thus contributing to better energy grid management.
  • Design compliant with network interconnection and return standards
  • Clear documentation to accelerate analysis and commissioning
  • Responsible sizing , ensuring network security and stability
  • Technical transparency , so that the client understands exactly how their system integrates with the provincial network

We share the same vision: to ensure a reliable, sustainable grid adapted to Quebec's climate realities , while enabling every citizen and organization to achieve greater energy independence. Public and private investments play a key role in supporting solar self-generation projects and accelerating their deployment across the region. The growing share of solar self-generation in Quebec's energy portfolio contributes to diversification, fosters the local economy, and strengthens the resilience of the energy system.

Self-production is not an alternative to Hydro-Québec.
It is a structured and complementary evolution.

Energy storage: autonomy and security for all

Quebec's energy independence relies on high-performance storage systems that maximize the yield of every solar installation across the province. Lithium-ion batteries and advanced storage solutions capture the energy produced during our sunny summers to efficiently power consumption during winter peaks or grid outages. This proven strategy directly strengthens the resilience of Quebec communities, particularly in our northern and isolated regions, by guaranteeing a reliable and independent electricity supply. Energy storage optimizes residential self-consumption, reduces the load on Hydro-Québec's grid, and delivers customized solutions perfectly adapted to the climate and energy realities of every Quebec home, business, or municipality. The maximum permitted power for rooftop solar installations has been raised from 50 to 1,000 kW. Solar energy can also contribute to achieving Quebec's greenhouse gas emission reduction targets by 2030. This represents a concrete transition towards smart, cost-effective, and proudly local energy management in Quebec. Quebec aims to double its electricity production by 2050.

A rapidly expanding network of installers and resellers

To serve each region with proximity and consistency, we are developing the Solar Energy network, a true engine of the solar industry in Quebec.

This network is distinguished by its scope, covering the entire provincial territory and facilitating the deployment of large-scale projects related to the energy transition.

Each region has:

  • from a local website,
  • from a Google My Business listing,
  • from a certified team,
  • and ongoing technical support.

This model allows for the pooling of resources, support for local projects and accelerates the growth of solar self-production in each community.

Installers and resellers who share our standards of quality, ethics and rigor are invited to join the network.

We don't centralize. We distribute expertise.

The subsidy for solar energy: a lever for your project

Hydro-Québec's subsidy transforms solar energy into a concrete and accessible solution for every home and business in Quebec—a true bridge to local energy independence. This strategic financial support drastically reduces the initial investment, accelerating your return on investment while measurably lowering your energy bills. Here in Quebec, producing your own electricity is no longer a dream, but a controlled technical reality that respects our rigorous standards and unique climate. Hydro-Québec's subsidy for solar panel installation will reimburse 40% of the total installation cost. In addition, Hydro-Québec will offer a subsidy of $1,000 for each kilowatt of solar power installed, making this opportunity even more attractive. A 5 kW solar system installation could qualify for a subsidy of $5,000. To maximize this exceptional opportunity, partner with local experts who understand Quebec's compliance requirements and optimize every kilowatt installed in your area. Solar energy thus becomes profitable, practical and proudly Quebecois — an innovation that unites technical expertise and community proximity.

The environmental impact of solar energy in Quebec

Installing solar panels in Quebec generates measurable and tangible environmental benefits for our province. This proven technology produces 100% clean electricity, directly contributing to a quantifiable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike conventional energy sources, CSA-certified photovoltaic systems operate without toxic residues or negative environmental impact on Quebec soils. By relieving pressure on Hydro-Québec's grid during peak summer consumption periods, solar energy significantly strengthens regional energy independence. The predictability of solar production after the initial investment is guaranteed because the sun is a free resource. Choosing solar today means investing in a proven technical solution that actively protects our local environment while securing Quebec's energy future.

Research and development: innovating for tomorrow

Quebec's solar sector is experiencing measurable growth thanks to concrete investments in research and development. Our local companies, in partnership with recognized institutions, are developing solar panels specifically designed for our harsh winters and sunny summers—a climatic reality we know inside and out. This Quebec technical expertise is generating tangible results: documented reductions in installation costs, more sustainable systems that meet our CSA standards, and energy solutions that meet Hydro-Québec's requirements. Innovation here is not an abstract concept—it's a solid bridge between technical excellence and the real needs of our communities. By investing heavily in this applied research, Quebec is not simply following global trends: we are forging our own path to energy independence, stimulating a robust local economy, and consolidating our position as a North American leader in renewable energy solutions adapted to our region.

Our team: expertise, trust, and a shared vision

Michael Ferland – President and Founder
An entrepreneur in the energy sector for several years, he achieved the first Canadian integration of a 12 kWh automotive-grade Volta lithium system in a Class B recreational vehicle in 2021. This breakthrough marked a significant step in the democratization of high-performance energy storage. Today, he leads the growth of Innovation Solaire Québec through engineering, process automation, and the structured deployment of the regional grid, with a clear vision: to make solar self-generation an accessible and reliable standard in Quebec.

Vincent Gauthier – Chief Operating Officer (COO)
A specialist in electrical infrastructure and field coordination, and a former lineman who supervised large-scale projects across Eastern Canada, he brings crucial operational rigor. He ensures quality workmanship, safety, and performance on every worksite, guaranteeing consistent, sustainable implementation that meets the highest standards.

Would you like to join our network?

Contractors, installers, electricians — you are welcome.
Let's build Quebec's energy independence together.


Get your free quote

Your project, our expertise.
Your independence starts now.


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