Critter Guard prevents rodents (including pigeons, our most common flying rat) from destroying your solar install or causing serious hazards. This is required by electrical code under certain circumstances and product quality is a primary concern for us. This is turning into a serious concern for the industry and we want our customers aware of it to make the best decisions.
Critter Guard can add a soft shadow aesthetic that adds beauty to a solar panel installation and conceals space underneath from view for a more clean finish while also keeping out pigeons and squirrels that damage your investment. The space underneath a solar array is protected from predators, is warm, has airflow and is sheltered from bad weather. Pigeons have discovered this paradise and have become incredibly good at finding solar homes and setting up shop with serious biological health hazards & property enjoyment issues for humans as well as physical risk to the function of your solar panel installation.
The cost of installing Critter Guard varies widely based on how large the Edmonton solar installation is, how many shapes and corners, how difficult to access (steep, etc) and can run into several thousand dollars in cases where difficult systems require cleanup and significant pigeon removal with installation of the guard product. It is advised that you consider Critter Guard at the time of your solar installation if you are in an area where pigeons live, to save cost. It may be an unwelcome addition at that time while already facing a large capital expense, but the peace of mind is well worth is as the industry continues to learn how bad these pests can be over several years of buildup. A little over $1,000 is a good starting point for installing Critter Guard on the smallest, simplest systems and it does not need to be installed by solar trained electricians but the technicians who install the solar arrays are generally the most careful and invested in your project and can be trusted to do the best job overall. There are several product types available with different quality and cost choices.
Work with one of our Edmonton-based contractors who can talk to you about the levels of risk and need in plain language and help you determine your needs.
In Alberta this is a newer (as of 2020/2021) industry concern, which is growing as the solar industry grows. In other areas with more solar pest control companies are beginning to specialize in the pigeon removal and companies are expanding to provide installation services for these Critter Guard products. See this UK reference here, where they’ve learned some of the lessons we are currently learning and this California Solar Cleaning company which is an example of a service that develops in areas with massive solar industry activity.
You teach us, we teach you! In this early stage, we learn about your energy needs and goals while conducting a detailed 3D site assessment.
No pressure, no rush—this is about finding the perfect solar solution for your space.
We create detailed engineering plans tailored to your property, model realistic production accounting for Alberta's weather, your current usage, and even upcoming purchases that you may not currrently account for. We go the extra mile to provide transparent pricing with financing options.
We handle all permits and utility approvals. Timelines depend on external authorities, but our reputation and expertise ensure smooth navigation through red tape!
Time to NINJA THAT JOB! Our certified electricians install your system with precision, test everything thoroughly, and ensure it's ready for inspection.
We pass inspections, receive permission to operate, and hand over comprehensive documentation.
Your solar future begins—lifetime energy production starts now!
You teach us, we teach you! In this early stage, we learn about your energy needs and goals while conducting a detailed 3D site assessment.
No pressure, no rush—this is about finding the perfect solar solution for your space.
We create detailed engineering plans tailored to your property, model realistic production accounting for Alberta's weather, your current usage, and even upcoming purchases that you may not currrently account for. We go the extra mile to provide transparent pricing with financing options.
We handle all permits and utility approvals. Timelines depend on external authorities, but our reputation and expertise ensure smooth navigation through red tape!
Time to NINJA THAT JOB! Our certified electricians install your system with precision, test everything thoroughly, and ensure it's ready for inspection.
We pass inspections, receive permission to operate, and hand over comprehensive documentation.
Your solar future begins—lifetime energy production starts now!
Yes! Critter guards can be retrofitted to any existing solar system. If you’re already experiencing animal problems (nesting sounds, droppings on panels, or visible damage), we recommend acting quickly—the longer animals inhabit the space, the more damage they cause. SolarNinjas can inspect your system, remove any existing nests safely, repair any wiring damage, and install critter guards to prevent future issues. We also offer critter guard installation as part of all new solar installations.
Birds, squirrels, and other animals love nesting under solar panels—the space provides shelter, warmth, and protection from predators. Without critter guards, animals can: damage wiring (leading to system failure or fire hazards), create nests that block airflow (reducing panel efficiency), leave droppings that corrode equipment, and create entry points for roof leaks. Critter guards are a small investment that prevents thousands of dollars in damage and maintains your solar system’s performance and warranty.
Most residential panel upgrades take 1-2 days, including inspection. The timeline depends on your home’s wiring condition, whether the service entrance needs upgrading, and permit processing time. We coordinate with EPCOR (or your utility) for temporary disconnection if needed, minimize downtime, and ensure the work passes inspection on the first attempt. Commercial projects vary based on size and complexity—contact us for a detailed timeline.
Absolutely. SolarNinjas is a licensed electrical contractor serving residential, commercial, and farm properties across Edmonton and surrounding areas. Our services include panel upgrades, EV charger installation, electrical infrastructure for solar systems, troubleshooting and repairs, code compliance work, and new construction electrical. We’re not a marketing company with subcontractors—you work directly with our master electricians from estimate to completion.
Signs you need a panel upgrade include: frequent breaker trips, flickering lights when appliances run, burning smells near the panel, a panel over 25 years old, rust or corrosion on the panel, buzzing sounds, or planning to add solar panels or EV charging. Most older homes have 100-amp panels, but modern homes with solar, EVs, and multiple appliances need 200-amp service. Our electricians provide free assessments to determine if an upgrade is necessary.
Yes. Alberta law requires all electrical work to be performed by licensed electricians and inspected by a certified electrical inspector. DIY electrical work is illegal and dangerous—it can void your insurance, create fire hazards, and result in costly fines. SolarNinjas employs licensed master electricians who ensure all work meets Alberta Safety Codes and passes inspection the first time.
