Maximizing Efficiency
Living with a 2019 Kia Niro PHEV and Solar Panels
Tech Talk
by Jeff Shields 2025-01-29

Introduction
Imagine driving 2,400 km on a single tank of gas while powering your home and vehicle with energy from the sun. For us, that’s not just a vision of the future—it’s our reality. By combining a 2019 Kia Niro PHEV, a 9 kW solar panel system, and other energy-efficient upgrades, we’ve dramatically reduced our carbon footprint and energy costs while reaping financial benefits.
This article explores how we’ve integrated solar energy, a PHEV, and smart financial planning to create a sustainable and cost-effective lifestyle.
The 2019 Kia Niro PHEV – A Quick Overview
- Electric-Only Range: Approximately 42 km, perfect for short trips and daily commutes.
- Fuel Efficiency: During the summer of 2024, we averaged 0.7 L/100 km and drove 2,400 km on a single tank of gas by relying heavily on the electric range.
- Rated Fuel Consumption: Over the year, the Niro averages 4.5 L/100 km for longer trips and winter driving.
- Practical Design: Compact yet spacious, the Niro PHEV fits our lifestyle, combining environmental benefits with everyday convenience.
Solar Panels – A Sustainable Powerhouse

Our 9 kW solar panel system was installed in September 2022 and has since produced over 20 MWh of electricity. The system’s performance highlights its efficiency and reliability:
- Peak Summer Production: Reaches up to 61 kWh/day, far exceeding household energy needs and charging the Niro multiple times.
- Winter Challenges: Average production drops to 5-10 kWh/day, but credits earned during summer offset these lower production periods.
- Net Metering with BC Hydro: BC Hydro’s 1-to-1 credit system means surplus energy produced during sunny months is sent to the grid and credited against winter energy use.
- 20 MWh can power a 19W LED bulb continuously for approximately 120 years!
Financial Benefits and Strategic Investments
- Cost Savings on Electricity: Before solar, our annual electricity bill was $1,968. Now, thanks to the system and net metering, we pay just $300/year, with bimonthly bills often under $10, except for slightly higher amounts in February and April.
- Gas Savings with the Niro PHEV: A standard gas vehicle would consume 1,200 L/year for 15,000 km, costing $2,160/year at $1.80/L. The Niro, at 4.5 L/100 km, uses just 675 L/year, costing $1,215/year. Annual gas savings: $945.
- Leveraging Incentives:
- Canada Greener Homes Program: A 10-year, interest-free loan covered 100% of the installation cost. A $5,000 grant provided additional financial relief.
- Provincial Rebates: $2,500 rebate on the Kia Niro PHEV, $750 rebate for installing a Level 2 EV charger, and a $5,000 grant for upgrading to a heat pump.
- Strategic Investment in Dividend Stocks: The $24,500 installation cost was covered by the Greener Homes loan, allowing us to invest $20,000 into dividend stocks yielding 5%+ annually, generating over $1,000/year in passive income.
Total Annual Savings
Category | Annual Savings (CAD) |
---|---|
Electricity Savings | $1,668 |
Gas Savings | $945 |
Dividend Income | $1,000 |
Total Annual Benefit | $3,613 |
Property Value Increase and ROI
Following the solar installation, our property assessment increased by $33,000 compared to our neighbours, significantly improving the overall return on investment.
Payback Period Calculation:
Category | Amount (CAD) |
---|---|
Total System Cost | $24,500 |
Grants and Rebates | -$5,000 |
Net Cost | $19,500 |
Annual Savings | $3,613 |
Payback Period | 5.4 years |
Increase in Property Value | +$33,000 |
Net ROI | +69% immediate ROI |
After the system is paid off, the annual savings and investment income will continue to grow, with the solar panels expected to last 30 years.
Long-Term Reliability and Resale Value
- Warranty and Lifespan:
- The solar panels come with a 25-year full parts, labour, and production warranty, transferable to future homeowners.
- With an expected lifespan of 30 years, the system will continue to deliver savings and environmental benefits well beyond the loan repayment period.
- Added Home Value:
- The warranty and long lifespan increase resale value, making the property more appealing to buyers.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
- Seasonal Variability:
- While summer production is plentiful, winter production requires reliance on accumulated credits.
- Smart Financial Planning:
- Leveraging the Canada Greener Homes loan allowed us to redirect our capital into dividend-yielding investments, amplifying financial returns.
- Minimal Maintenance:
- With its 25-year warranty, the system has required no major maintenance so far.
Take Away
By combining a 2019 Kia Niro PHEV, solar panels, and smart financial planning, we’ve created an environmentally and financially sustainable lifestyle. With minimal upfront costs, significant savings, and long-term reliability, this setup is a testament to how renewable energy solutions can benefit homeowners today and for decades to come.
If you’re considering making a similar transition, research available incentives, plan for your energy needs, and invest strategically to maximize your return.