Jen’s Journey with Generation Solar
After a severe windstorm in 2022 knocked down the shade trees in the back of her house, Jen saw an unexpected opportunity. Instead of letting the sun bake her roof and overheat her home, she thought, why not harness that sun for energy?
Jen had always been interested in green energy. Living in an older home, she’d already made energy-saving upgrades over the years—like replacing windows, adding insulation, and using heavy drapes to keep the heat in check. But it wasn’t until the storm damage left one side of her roof baking in direct sunlight that solar really felt like the right next step.
With support from Generation Solar, Jen felt confident moving forward. JP and the team took care of nearly everything—coordinating with tradespeople, managing permits and the Ontario Hydro contract, and making sure all the work was done right.
“If I’d had to manage all that myself, it would’ve been really hard,” she says. “Instead, the whole process felt smooth and well supported.”
Because of the shape and direction of Jen’s roof, the solar panels could only go on a west-facing dormer. That made sense to her, but having the experts confirm it really helped cement the decision. Before the installation, Jen also upgraded that section of roof to steel—a smart move recommended by JP, since repairs under solar panels can be tricky and expensive.
Jen took advantage of the Canada Greener Homes interest-free loan to make the project more affordable. “JP and Clara (GreenUP) knew the program inside out and helped me with tips and quick answers. That made everything easier.”
While she didn’t go with a full battery backup, Jen added a small, grid-independent emergency outlet. “It’s kind of cool knowing that if the power goes out, I can still boil a kettle or charge my phone with solar.”
For Jen, solar wasn’t just about saving money—it was about living in line with her values. She’s proud to make her home more efficient and eco-friendly, not just for herself but to set a good example for her child and contribute to a greener future.
Reflecting on the experience, Jen says, “I can’t think of a contractor who was easier or more thorough. Generation Solar really thought of everything.”