Think tall buildings, busy streets, and plenty of sunshine. But how do we keep it all running sustainably? Fear not, because the answer shines brighter than ever – it’s solar energy! So, grab your shades and get ready to uncover why solar energy is suitable for Singapore.
- The Future of Solar Energy in Singapore: Key Targets
- 5 Reasons Why is Solar Energy Suitable for Singapore
- Challenges of Using Solar Energy in Singapore
- Why Solar Energy is Suitable for Singapore: Benefits of Installing Solar Panels
- Why Solar Energy is Suitable for Singapore: Making Solar Panels Affordable and Accessible
- Why is Solar Energy Suitable for Singapore: Embrace a Sustainable Energy Solution Today!
The Future of Solar Energy in Singapore: Key Targets
Singapore is stepping toward a greener future with its ambitious goal to hit net zero emissions by 2025. To reach this goal, Singapore aims to power up to 350,000 homes using a minimum of 2 gigawatt-peak (GWp) in solar power by the year 2030.
Thanks to the SolarNova Programme, there are currently an estimate of 3,900 HDB blocks equipped with solar panels, contributing a total of 455 megawatt-peak (MWp) to its end goal. This impressive effort can power around 114,000 four-room flats.
Singapore isn’t stopping there — by the third quarter of 2026, an additional 320,000 solar panels will be installed on 1,075 HDB blocks and 101 government buildings, adding another 130 megawatt-peak (MWp) to the desired solar capacity.
Tip!
Did you know that as a landed homeowner in Singapore, you can also install solar panels on your roof? Receive an estimate of your property’s solar potential and enjoy reduced electricity bills today, while contributing to Singapore’s solar energy targets!
5 Reasons Why is Solar Energy Suitable for Singapore
Embarking on the journey to understand why solar energy is suitable for Singapore, let’s dive into the reasons why solar energy is suitable in sunny Singapore. From geographical advantages to innovative solutions, each aspect contributes to Singapore’s journey to a greener future.
Geographical Location of the Country
Singapore’s lack of sufficient wind for wind turbines, the limitations of small rivers for hydropower, and limited land space for biomass generation are reasons why certain renewable energy’s are not as simple to integrate into our country.
However, one abundant resource we have is sunlight. This fortune positions solar energy as the most viable and appropriate renewable energy option for Singapore, placing solar energy as the most optimal renewable energy in sunny Singapore.
Falling Costs in Solar System Adoption
Solar PV systems are 80% cheaper than it was in 2007, this makes switching to solar a much more affordable option.
This trend is not slowing down anytime soon either. As the solar industry continuously expands, we can anticipate further reductions in solar panel prices in the near future. Adding to this momentum, an industry-changing $77 million solar research lab was launched in 2023, focusing on enhancing the efficiency of solar panels.
This initiative not only promises to make solar energy more accessible but also underscores the ongoing commitment to advancing solar technology. With these strides, solar energy is set to become an even more attractive and feasible option for sustainable power.
Tip!
For landed homeowners, installing solar panels on your roof can instantly shave off $100 to $250 of your monthly electricity bills, with GetSolar’s $0 upfront cost, Rent-to-Own solar price plan.
Try our solar simulator & get a free customised quote within minutes!
Ease of Solar Integration
Singapore has demonstrated its fast moving capabilities of adopting solar energy into not only residential buildings but also commercial and industrial projects.
A smooth shift is supported by innovative leaps in technology, including remote data monitoring, off-grid capabilities, and the creative use of vertically-mounted panels.
These advancements not only exemplify Singapore’s forward-thinking approach but also highlight its commitment to sustainable development. By leveraging such cutting-edge technologies, Singapore is paving the way for a more eco-friendly and energy-efficient future, demonstrating a remarkable capacity to adapt and evolve within the global energy landscape.
Feasibility of HDB Roofs
Singapore’s unique landscape of high-rise HDB blocks, offers a creative solution to its space constraints for solar energy generation: rooftop solar installations.
With over a million HDB flats dotting the city, these rooftops present an untapped opportunity for harnessing solar power. These HDB solar panels use the energy harvested from the sun for essential services like powering lifts, lights, and water pumps, significantly cutting down on the dependency on traditional grid electricity.
The beauty of this system lies in its efficiency; any excess solar energy generated is fed back into the grid, benefiting the wider community. This ingenious approach allows HDB buildings to aim for net-zero energy consumption in their common areas, balancing the energy used with the clean, renewable energy produced by the solar panels.
Tip!
If you’re staying in a HDBs, and wish to visualise how much electricity solar panels can generate for your home, feel free to give our solar simulator a spin.
However, do take note that EMA specifically works with partners such as JTC & Sembcorp for HDB solar panel installations, and we currently do not work with them to do so.
If you’ve found the simulator fun to use, feel free to share it with your friends who stay in landed properties and/or are looking to explore alternative electricity options!
Potential to Diversify Singapore’s Energy Mix
Singapore is shifting away from its strong dependence on natural gas, and toward cleaner alternatives. In addition to solar, Singapore is actively working on increasing its use of hydrogen and exploring the potential of nuclear power. These steps are part of Singapore’s commitment to a sustainable and secure energy future.
This transition not only strengthens our energy security but also significantly contributes to the global fight against climate change.
Challenges of Using Solar Energy in Singapore
Weather-dependent Power Generation
Despite Singapore being blessed with plenty of sunshine, the performance of solar panels still faces hurdles due to cloudy days and high humidity.
Roof Space Limitations
As aforementioned, Singapore’s limited land and roof areas pose a challenge. Especially for office buildings and HDBs, which are typically tall with limited roof space, relying entirely on solar power can be difficult.
Tip!
For properties with large roof areas, such as landed homes, where ample space allows for solar installations relative to your energy needs, opting for solar power can be a wise choice. It has the potential to yield significant savings, potentially amounting to thousands of dollars in energy bills over time.
If you’re a landed homeowner & wish to see how much you can save with solar, use our free online simulator today!
Why Solar Energy is Suitable for Singapore: Benefits of Installing Solar Panels
From reducing carbon footprints to lowering electricity bills and increasing home values, solar panels offer a multitude of benefits for both individuals and the environment.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Solar energy allows for the generation of electricity without releasing harmful emissions and pollutants such as carbon dioxide, making it one of the cleanest forms of energy. With the installation of solar panels, comes a much cleaner and sustainable environment.
Reduced Electricity Bills
Making the switch to solar power means reducing dependency on the grid for electricity as well. With this, your electricity bills are heavily cut, potentially slashing it by up to 70%.
The efficiency and size of your solar panel system play a critical role in how much you can save, offering electricity costs as low as 15 cents per kWh. This not only makes solar energy eco-friendly but also an economically sound investment.
Of course, you can also explore further insights on electricity price comparisons in Singapore to make informed decisions.
Possible Profit from REC Selling
Singapore’s net-metering scheme offers a fantastic opportunity by selling excess electricity back to the grid. And with the intense heat waves that Singapore has to offer, churning out excess electricity is no biggie for your solar panels!
For those who invested in their solar systems upfront, there’s the added benefit of generating extra income through the sale of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). This dual-income stream not only boosts your financial returns but also supports Singapore’s green energy goals.
Increased Home Value
This one’s for you property flippers! According to research from PropertyGuru, Installing a solar PV system could boost the value of your home by up to 4.1%, compared to similar homes without solar panels.
Why Solar Energy is Suitable for Singapore: Making Solar Panels Affordable and Accessible
Solar Panels for Homes
While the cost of solar panels has decreased, setting up a solar system for your home still involves a large initial financial commitment. For a terrace house, the price of solar installation ranges from S$18,000, scaling up to S$36,000 for larger bungalows.
Recognizing this, GetSolar offers a Rent-to-Own (RTO) scheme. This pricing plan omits the high upfront costs, grants you free maintenance and service for the duration of the contract. RTO customers make fixed monthly payments which are typically lower than their electricity bills, this means they’re essentially saving on bills instantly.
With the RTO model, solar becomes significantly accessible, affordable and hassle-free, ensuring more homes can enjoy the benefits of clean energy without the immediate financial burden.
Commercial Solar Panels
We understand that when a large cost is involved, business owners tend to be reluctant. However, through the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), businesses can effortlessly shift to green energy by powering their commercial buildings.
The PPA allows owners to lease their unused roof space to GetSolar. Businesses then have the privilege of purchasing the solar electricity produced by their panels at a significantly reduced rate, often 50 to 70% less than current electricity costs.
This arrangement breaks down financial barriers, paving the way for a wider adoption of sustainable practices in the commercial sector.
Why is Solar Energy Suitable for Singapore: Embrace a Sustainable Energy Solution Today!
Solar energy is revolutionising sustainability efforts in Singapore, offering a reliable and renewable source of power. With falling costs, key solar targets, and innovative solutions, solar power is paving the way towards a greener and more sustainable future for the Lion City.
