At READ Architecture, we like that our clients care about the environment. Many a times they ask if solar panels make economical sense. Here’s what we’ve gathered thus far from our conversations with various solar panel suppliers.

What Is the Average Cost to Install Solar Panels on a House?
The cost of solar panels installation in Singapore ranges between $10,000 to $50,000, with an average landed property household spending about $20,000. Most home owners would choose to maximise their roof space for solar panel installation because larger systems equate to lower unit cost.

Solar panel suppliers informed that the average period of time needed to recover the base cost of the solar panels through energy savings is about seven years, although this is dependent on factors such as the size of the solar panel system and the household’s electricity use patterns and of course, the weather and the orientation of the landed house.

It would be ideal if the landed house receives a considerable amount of sunlight during the day. If it is in shade (or another building’s shadow), it might not be a viable option. In Singapore, south-east facing homes get good morning sun, which is best for harvesting solar power as long as the roof top is not in another properties’ shadow.

Solar panels typically have a warranty period of 25 to 30 years. Inverters, which are attached to solar panels, have a lifespan of about 5 to 12 years and must be replaced at least once during the lifetime of a solar panel. Maintenance costs range between $300 to $500 each time and is recommended once every one or two years.

If you live in a landed property, and are keen to install solar panels, you will need a licensed electrical worker (LEW) to endorse and commission the system. It is highly recommended to engage the right type of electrical engineer as there are the safety standards, building and electrical rules and regulations to comply with. Application to Singapore Power can be made here.

If the works are solely to install solar panels, planning permission is not required unless the property has conservation status or the intention is to install elevated solar panels from 1.0 to 1.8 metres above your roof.

Feel free to get in touch with READ Architecture, find out more about us and our architectural and interior design services here.

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