How Solar-Powered Skylights Work
A solar-powered skylight looks like any other venting skylight from inside, but it has a thin solar panel built into the top of the frame. The panel charges a small battery, and the battery runs a quiet motor that opens and closes the sash. A rain sensor on the frame closes it automatically at the first drops.
Because it powers itself, there is no wiring run through your ceiling, no electrician and no wall switch. That is why solar has become our most requested upgrade for kitchens, bedrooms and any ceiling you cannot reach.
The 5 Reasons Toronto Homeowners Choose Solar Over Manual
- High ceilings. Cathedral and loft ceilings are out of reach for a manual rod.
- Automatic rain closing. The rain sensor closes it even when nobody is home.
- No wiring. No electrician, no holes in finished ceilings, no ESA permit for the VSS.
- Remote control. Open it from bed, the couch or your phone.
- Summer comfort. Hot air rises and escapes at the ceiling, cooling the room faster.
Residential Solar Skylights
Kitchens
Let cooking heat out at the highest point.
Bedrooms
Pair with solar blackout blinds on one remote.
Bathrooms
Clear steam without touching anything.
Cathedral Ceilings
The classic solar use case.
Attic Lofts
Vent summer heat.
Stairwells
Unreachable units become easy to use.
Commercial Solar Skylights
Offices
Remote ventilation without wiring.
Clinics
Quiet motors over patient areas.
Restaurants
Vent heat from dining rooms.
Condo Amenities
Managed from a keypad or app.
Specialty Solar Options
Solar Blinds
Blackout or light-filtering on the same remote.
Velux Active Sensors
Open and close based on indoor climate.
Solar Replacement Upgrades
Same-size swap from fixed to VSS.
Fakro FXP Preselect
Electric option with keypad control.
Solar Skylight Models
| Model | Power | Installed price |
|---|---|---|
| Velux VSS | Integrated solar + battery | $4,500 to $7,500 |
| Fakro FXP | Hardwired preselect electric | $4,500 to $6,800 |
| VSS upgrade | Same opening, same size code | $3,500 to $6,500 |
Every solar install includes the correct Velux or Fakro flashing kit, Grace Ice & Water Shield and an insulated shaft. Integrated solar units are installed in line with TSSA solar electric requirements, and hardwired units under ESA permit.
Our Solar Expertise
We check roof orientation and shading before recommending solar, because a north-facing slope under a big maple will charge slowly. We commission every unit, pair remotes and test the rain sensor before we leave. Our Rosedale kitchen project used three Velux VSS units with laminated glass, signed off by the architect on first inspection.
What Actually Stops Homeowners From Going Solar
“Solar won’t work in a Canadian winter.”
In our opinion, this is the most common myth. The battery handles normal use and recharges on short days.
“Motors are noisy.”
Modern VSS motors are quiet. Most people barely hear them.
“It must cost a lot more.”
The VSS starts at $4,500 installed and saves the cost of wiring.
“What if it breaks?”
Manufacturer warranty plus our flashing warranty, and batteries are replaceable.
Solar Skylight Timeline
Assessment
Roof, sun and framing check.
Ordering
One to two weeks.
Install Day
One day including commissioning.
Demo
Remote, app and sensor walk-through.
Solar Skylight Cost in Toronto: What You Are Paying For
The Unit
Motor, battery, panel and sensor included.
Flashing Kit
Matched to your roof.
Framing
New opening or same-size replacement.
Shaft
Insulated and finished.
Blinds
Optional solar blinds.
Smart Integration
Velux Active optional.
Solar Skylight Installation vs Replacement vs Repair: Which Service You Need
New opening: this page. Existing fixed unit: Velux replacement with a VSS. Motor or sensor issue on an existing unit: skylight repair.
Fixed, Venting or Solar: Choosing Your Skylight Type
Fixed for light only, manual venting if you can reach it, solar for everything else.
Solar Skylight Timeline in Toronto: What to Expect Week-by-Week
Assessment in week one, delivery in one to two weeks, install and commissioning in a day.
Why Toronto Homeowners Trust Our Solar Installs
Certified, commissioned and paired before we leave. Trust us, you’re in good hands.
