SMART SOLAR

Other solar plans or “clubs” ask you to track seasonal changes or decide when to opt in to certain rates. Smart Solar removes this burden by automatically selecting the best rate based on what your home is doing at the moment.
  • 33.33¢ per kWh credit when you produce excess energy
  • Your usual low rate when you draw more than you produce
  • No calendars or switches to manage
It functions as an intelligent, always running system that activates the high rate only when it improves your return.
ChatGPT_Image_Nov_23_2025_11_02_27_AM

SMART SOLAR FAQ

General Program Questions
What is the Smart Solar Plan?
The Smart Solar Plan is Sponsor Energy’s optimized program designed to maximize the value of your solar (or other microgeneration) system. Instead of locking you into seasonal rates, our system automatically applies premium export rates only when you’re selling power back to the grid. No guessing, no switching, no hidden catches — just maximum efficiency.  
How is this different from other solar plans?
Most providers require you to manually switch between “summer” and “winter” rates, or lure you with teaser prices that increase later. Our plan is fully automated. You always get the best premium export rate (33.33¢/kWh) only when you’re a net exporter, not when you’re buying more. This prevents you from overpaying during months when you’re not producing much. 
Do I need to do anything to manage the plan?
No. The system runs entirely on autopilot. Our optimization tracks your generation and consumption patterns and applies the optimal rate automatically. 
Solar and Microgeneration
Do you install solar panels?
No. Sponsor Energy does not install panels or contact your local distributor. We provide energy plans and credits for power exported to the grid once your system is installed and approved with a bi-directional meter. 
What is a bi-directional meter and why do I need one?
A bi-directional meter is installed by your power distributor and measures both the electricity you consume from the grid and the electricity you export back. It’s the official record used for billing and crediting.
How are microgeneration credits calculated?
Credits are based on the exact amount of electricity (kWh) your system exports to the grid, as recorded by your bi-directional meter. These credits are applied to your Sponsor Energy bill at the applicable rate (33.33¢/kWh under the Smart Solar Plan). 
Why does my solar app show different numbers than my bill?
Your solar app usually measures only production, not the net export to the grid. For example, if your system produces 1,400 kWh but you use 700 kWh of that in real time, only 700 kWh may actually be exported and credited. The bi-directional meter is the only accurate source for billing purposes. 
Billing & Payments
When do I get paid for my solar credits?
Credits are applied after Sponsor Energy receives export data from your power distributor. Billing cycles may lag behind real-time generation, so numbers in your solar app and your bill may not align perfectly month-to-month.
Can I get a cheque or cash payout for my credits?
Credits are first applied to offset your energy charges. If your credits exceed your charges over time, Sponsor Energy may provide payout options depending on your account balance. 
Are savings guaranteed?
Every solar system is unique. Generation depends on your panel size, positioning, local weather, and household consumption. While we can’t guarantee savings, our Smart Solar Plan ensures you’re always maximizing the value of the energy you produce. 
Other Common Questions
What happens in the winter when I’m not producing much solar?
Unlike traditional solar plans, you don’t pay inflated rates in the winter. You only receive the premium rate when exporting power. When you’re importing from the grid, you pay your original plan price.
Where can I learn more about the rules for solar in Alberta?
 For full details, see the official Alberta Micro-Generation Regulation  
Do I lose my credits if I don’t use them right away?
 No. Unused credits carry forward month to month and are applied against your future bills. 
Terms and Conditions
What are your Terms and Conditions?
https://sponsorenergy.com/pages/terms

Still have questions? Feel free to send us a message