Load displacement means your solar is used only to meet your home's own consumption, not exported for bill credits. It is the condition attached to the Home Renovation Savings solar and battery rebate: take the rebate and you cannot also net-meter.
Ontario's rebate is part of the IESO's electricity demand-side management program, which is why it is built around reducing your own draw from the grid rather than exporting[2]. Homeowners who receive the rebate are not eligible for net metering[3].
| Load displacement (rebate) | Net metering | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront rebate | Up to $10,000 | None |
| Exported power | Not credited | Credited, 12-month carry-forward |
| Size to | Daytime on-site use | Annual consumption |
| Best fit | High daytime use, EV, battery | Homes exporting a large share |
Without export credits, unused midday solar is lost. Daytime loads, an EV charged on solar, and a battery that shifts production into the evening all make the rebate path work better. TAF notes the rebate design encourages smaller systems relative to consumption and roof space[2].
Full details: Home Renovation Savings rebate and Ontario home net metering.
Confirm eligibility with the program before committing. General information, not financial advice.
