// The Problem
Alberta Rate Structures Are Rigged Against Commercial Loads
Alberta’s commercial electricity rates are structured in a way that can be very costly for businesses with high peak demands. Under FortisAlberta Rate 22 and Rate 63, your monthly bill isn’t based on total energy usage, it’s based on your single highest 15-minute demand interval during the month.
That means just one equipment startup, one cold morning, or one busy shift can drive up your bill for the entire month.
It gets worse with the ratchet clause, which sets your demand charge floor at a percentage of your highest peak in the past 12 months. Even if your usage drops the following month, you’re still paying for past peaks.
Solar panels alone don’t solve this. They lower energy costs, but they don’t reduce your peak demand, since solar production can’t always match the timing of peak usage events.
// The Boreal Approach
Three technologies. One integrated system.
We design and install a fully integrated energy management system that combines solar panels, battery storage, and intelligent microgrid controls, all customized around your specific energy demand. This system not only reduces energy costs but also actively manages your peak demand.
// How It Works
From Energy Audit to Commissioned System
We guide your business step by step, from analyzing your energy use to installing a fully optimized system that reduces demand charges.
1
Demand Profile Analysis
We examine your utility data to see exactly when your energy peaks occur — whether it’s from equipment startups, shift changes, seasonal patterns, or ratchet exposure.
2
Integrated System Design
Our engineers design the optimal combination of solar panels, battery storage, and microgrid controls to maximize your savings. You receive a complete, P.Eng-stamped design package tailored to your needs.
3
Permits & Utility Coordination
We handle all permits and approvals, including City of Edmonton development permits and utility interconnection agreements with FortisAlberta or EPCOR. We take care of everything to make installation smooth.
5
Commission, Monitor & Optimize
Once the system is live, we monitor it in real time. For the first 30 days, we verify that your demand reduction targets are being met and fine-tune the controller settings for maximum savings.
// Why Boreal
The Only Alberta Solar Installer Purpose-Built for Demand Management
7+
years of experience in the Alberta energy market
30%
Federal Clean Tech ITC — fully refundable
100%
CCA Class 43.1 — allows full year-one tax expensing
We specialize in solar installations that are designed specifically to reduce your demand charges — not just your energy bills.
// Federal & Provincial Incentives
The economics already make sense — incentives make the investment even stronger.
Businesses in Alberta can take advantage of several federal and provincial programs that significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing solar and energy storage systems.
// Our Process
Six Steps to a Fully Commissioned Energy System
We follow a clear, step-by-step process to design, install, and optimize your integrated solar and energy management system.
// Industries We Serve
Designed for Alberta’s Commercial and Industrial Operations
Our integrated solar and energy management systems are built to support businesses that experience high energy demand and costly peak charges.
Ready to Stop Paying for Peaks You Can Prevent?
Start with a feasibility study. Our team will review your energy demand profile, model a system tailored to your business, and show you the potential savings and system performance before you make any commitment.
Phone
587-415-8318
Service Area
Edmonton & across Alberta