Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about dcbel Ara and how it works in your home.
Frequently asked
questions
Energy is yours to own
What is the dcbel Ara Home Energy Station?
dcbel Ara, our flagship Home Energy Station, manages all your home energy sources. It allows you to power your home and charge your EV with solar power, unlock EV energy, and reduce everyday costs.
dcbel Ara has a starting price of CAD $13,999.
How much does the Home Energy Station cost?
Research has shown that bidirectional charging does not harm electric vehicle batteries. In fact, cycling the battery through bidirectional charging may actually improve lifespan. dcbel's Pure DC technology delivers a faster charge while avoiding the degrading effects that can occur with frequent Level 3 fast charging.
Does bidirectional charging affect my EV's battery?
dcbel Ara is compatible with major North American standards for electric vehicle charging, including NACS, CCS, CHAdeMO and J1772.
Which EVs are supported by the Home Energy Station?
Who will install my Home Energy Station?
All dcbel installations are performed by our accredited Smart Home Integration Partners (SHIPs). They can help you size and plan for your system, install solar panels and home battery storage, wire your home and make sure all your energy needs are met. They will also be able to help you plan for permitting and subsidy applications. A few weeks prior to your planned delivery, a local SHIP will contact you to book a site visit.
Can pre-existing equipment be integrated with dcbel Ara?
dcbel Ara does not support custom integrations with other peripherals. It is sold as a complete solar and blackout bundle.
Does the dcbel Ara Home Energy Station work toward Hydro Québec’s net metering program?
Ara is designed to support customer‑owned solar generation and participation in utility programs like Hydro Québec’s Net Metering program, subject to eligibility requirements and approval by Hydro Québec.
What is the cost of installing a dcbel Ara Home Energy Station?
Installing a Home Energy Station is a personalized process and costs can vary as a result. When installation is set to begin, one of dcbel’s approved Smart Home Integration Partners (SHIPs) in your area will survey your home. They will take into account the size of your electrical panel, the location where you’d like the system to be installed, and your home’s unique configuration. After the survey, your SHIP will provide you with an estimate. Hydro Québec also offers incentives for solar installations.
Do solar panels work in
Quebec winters?
Yes - solar panels continue to operate efficiently throughout Quebec’s winters. Panels are installed at an optimal tilt that improves winter sun exposure and helps snow slide off naturally.
Since winter represents only about 10% of annual solar production, systems are designed to maximize total yearly output rather than peak winter performance.
Can the Ara be installed outdoors?
Is it safe for Quebec winters?
Absolutely – Ara is built by Quebecers for Quebec winters. Ara has a NEMA 3R rating, making it suitable for outdoor installation, with protection against rain, snow, and ice.
4700 de la Savane suite 210, Montréal, QC H4P 1T7
438-255-4188
© dcbel. All rights reserved.
