Solar Energy In Singapore: Common Questions Answered
Electricity powers our cities and homes. Today, most of our electricity is powered by fossil fuels: oil and gas which are non-renewable resources. Solar energy, a renewable form of energy is one of the most promising alternative energy sources available to us today. In this article we will be exploring common questions by our fellow Singaporeans concerning solar energy and what relevance it has to us living in Singapore.
When did Singapore start using solar energy?
Solar panel installation across commercial and residential properties in Singapore hit a significant scale from 2009 to 2015. Currently, the Singapore government has set a goal to boost the installed capacity of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to account for 4% of Singapore’s total electricity usage by 2030.
Solar panels by Marina Bay, Singapore. Source: theaseanpost.com
How do solar panels work in Singapore?
Solar panels like in other parts of the world, work the same way in Singapore. In a nutshell, they convert sunlight into electricity. Solar panels are made up of multiple solar cells which are connected together. When sunlight hits a solar cell, it absorbs electrons from the sun rays it is exposed to. Solar panels convert the electrons in to electricity. The photovoltaic (PV) system, which is installed with solar panels, turns electricity from the solar panel into usable electricity which helps to power our homes, cities and electrical appliances.
House with solar panels in Joo Chiat, Singapore - source: solar-repository.sg
How much does a solar panel cost in Singapore?
Installing solar panels is a serious investment. Therefore it is important you are well informed on how solar energy can benefit you in the long run. In order to be well informed we must get help from the experts. Solar AI Technologies estimates the average cost of solar panel installation for a terrace house in Singapore stands at $18,000 for 20 solar panels with a 8 kilowatts peak (kWp) solar energy system. This includes rewiring the house’s electrical system to the grid with a photovoltaic (PV) system.
Terrace house in Singapore with solar panels - source: sunprohomes.com.sg
Do I need permission to install solar panels? Are They Illegal?
If you live on a landed a property, in most cases you will not need permission to install a standard solar panel system on your roof, unless you’re located in a commercial space, conservation area or plan to install elevated solar panels. Elevated solar panel are one meter or above in height. If you stay in a property other than a landed property, you will should seek approval from your town council or building management before planning any installation.
Elevated solar panels require permission for installation.
What is the most suitable energy source for Singapore?
In terms of weather, Singapore may be known more for its rain and humidity than for its sunshine. However, there is an average of 5 to 6 hours of sunshine per day in Singapore. Therefore, solar energy is still considered a feasible option for an energy source. The sun is a never-ending source of energy, which means that solar power is a renewable resource. Additionally, solar power does not produce harmful emissions or pollutants, making it a sustainable option for Singapore to reduce its carbon footprint. This is well aligned with the Singapore Green Plan to tackle climate change.
Sun shining on Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Can solar panels be installed at HDB?
As an owner of a HDB unit, you will not be able to install solar panels on your home. However, there are currently solar panels that have been installed by the Housing Development Board (HDB) on the rooftops of various HDB homes around Singapore. As part of their Green Towns Programme, the HDB aims to install 540 MWp (Megawatts peak) of solar panels on Singapore HDB estates by 2030.
Solar panels on HDB rooftop, Singapore. Source: tnp.straitstimes.com
Now that we have covered the common questions regarding solar energy in Singapore, we hope we have cleared any uncertainties you may have had towards solar energy, solar systems and the rules and regulations regarding their installation in Singapore. If you are considering installing solar panels for your own home in Singapore, feel free to check out our complete guide on installing solar panels in Singapore!