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by Ng Yew Weng
Table of Contents:
-Step 1: choose the right solar panel
-Step 2: conduct a site survey with an engineer
-Step 3: secure the correct installation permits
-Step 4: let your solar contractor handle the arrangements
-Step 5: connect your solar system to the inverter and power grid
Curious what the cost of solar panels in Malaysia is? The actual cost of installation can vary depending on several factors, for example the type of house and the size of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, this article will provide valuable information to help you learn about solar panel installation.
At Progressture Solar, we have successfully managed over 740 completed and ongoing clean energy projects, resulting in the generation of 78,840MWh of clean energy and the prevention of 59,760 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Based on our extensive experience within the energy sector, these are the price points for a range of house types in Malaysia.
What is the Cost of Solar Panel Installation in Malaysia?
A typical solar system for residential use could cost anywhere from RM14,000 to RM46,000. This price range varies depending on the type of house and roof size, according to the Malay Mail [1]. Specifically, the following factors will impact the pricing of solar installations:
The type of house
Roof size, type, and material
The size of the solar PV system
The type of solar panels
The table below showcases an estimated cost for a standard solar system installation in Malaysian landed properties. Based on a 2020 study [2], the return on investment for installations in Malaysia is at least eight years.
House Type | Average Number of Solar Panels | System Capacity (kWp) | Installation area (sqm) | Average Cost |
Terrace Houses | 8-12 | 4-6 | 9-13 | RM16k-RM24k |
Semi-detached Houses | 12-18 | 6-9 | 13-20 | RM24k-RM34k |
Bungalows | 18-26 | 9-13 | 20-29 | RM34k-RM46k |
In commercial or industrial settings, installing 500kWp of solar panels would involve an area of about 4,450sqm and cost approximately RM2,100 per kWp installed.
If a business wanted to install 1MWp (1,000kWp) of solar panels on a warehouse with an area of about 8,900sqm, the total cost of solar panel installation would be around RM1.8 million. Although this cost may seem daunting, many renewable energy incentives in Malaysia offer cost-saving opportunities for businesses and individuals alike, and contracts such as power purchase agreements (PPA) help companies avoid the upfront costs of buying and installing solar energy systems. Companies can benefit greatly when they go for commercial solar panels.
For informed consumers, it is advisable to seek quotations from different solar PV service providers but be wary of too-good-to-be-true prices. In many instances, these offers involve compromises, such as using low-grade or refurbished solar panels with shorter lifespans, or subpar electrical cables that are susceptible to deterioration from prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays. These factors can significantly impact your return on investment and the overall lifetime cost of the solar system. Given these considerations, it is recommended to engage with a reputable solar contractor for your home.
For a limited time only, enjoy an exclusive RM1,000 rebate on top of the government's RM4,000 SolaRIS incentive when you install a residential solar system with Progressture Solar! Contact us now to find out more.
Should You DIY Your Solar Panel Installation?
No. Installing a home solar system by doing-it-yourself might be appealing, but several factors discourage DIY solar panel installation in Malaysia:
Low equipment accessibility
Solar panels in Malaysia are not readily available to the public. Procuring the required equipment may be challenging and could lead to higher costs and logistical hurdles.
Applying for permits and approvals
Home insurance implications
Lack of technical expertise
Long-term cost considerations
In the long run, it makes more sense to contract a local yet reputable solar company to assist you in powering your building with green energy. Professional contractors ensure expertise and accountability; they can handle the complexities of the installation process to secure project success.
So, what happens after you select a contractor?
The Solar Panel Installation Process
Step 1: Choose the right solar panel
There are three panels to choose from: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film solar panels.
Monocrystalline panels are the most used solar panels as they offer the highest efficiency rating at 20% or more, making them an accessible energy system for convenient use.
Step 2: Conduct a site survey with an engineer
A licensed engineer will evaluate your current electrical size and usage to determine the ideal system size. The engineer will also inspect the condition of your roof to confirm your home is structurally stable to withstand the weight of the installed solar panels.
Optimizing the location and mounting angle of your solar panels will allow for peak performance and maximum energy delivery to your home.
Step 3: Secure the correct installation permits
Next, you need to secure essential licenses from government bodies and Suruhanjaya Tenaga, such as for Net Energy Metering (NEM). These documents validate the legality and safety compliance of your solar setup. The great news is that your solar contractor will manage all these requirements on your behalf.
Assuming all details are in order, the approval process may take around 3-4 weeks for a standard home system.
Step 4: Let your solar contractor handle the arrangements
Following successful approval, your solar contractor will procure all necessary equipment—panels, inverters, electrical wiring, mounting systems, nuts, and bolts. At this stage, you would have already chosen your preferred panel and inverter type before signing the contract. The solar contractor would then present several options aligning with your solar needs.
The installation phase is quick: construction workers ensure panels are mounted securely as per safety regulations. Post-installation, a licensed GCPV engineer and wireman complete and sign off on the electrical wiring to guarantee safety and correct installation.
Step 5: Connect your solar system to the inverter and power grid
Once your home solar system is in place, the next step involves connecting it to the inverter and linking it to the existing power grid. During daylight hours, the panels automatically power up the inverters to supply electricity to your house. You can monitor the current electricity generation by checking the display on the inverter.
As night falls and solar voltage diminishes, your home seamlessly transitions back to grid-supplied energy for uninterrupted power.
Progressture Solar: Providing Turnkey Solar Solutions for Commercial and Industrial Buildings
At Progressture Solar, our goal is to construct the most reliable, safest, and highest quality solar PV systems for commercial and industrial buildings. We work with the best brands across the globe to ensure the durability and reliability of every element—from solar panels and inverters to wires and bolts.
Powered by our vision of a net-zero future, we believe that adopting solar systems plays a pivotal role in addressing global warming and achieving ambitious climate change mitigation goals.
Learn how we can ease your journey towards a clean energy transition by viewing our services or talking to an expert today.
Why You Can Trust Progressture Solar
Progressture Solar is committed to helping businesses achieve net zero by offering tailored solutions for specific needs. As a leading clean energy provider and net-zero partner, our in-house team of experts and professionals reviews our content for accuracy. We also use updated data, facts and expert advice in all our content.
Reference
1 Malay Mail. “More Malaysians transitioning to solar power to reduce electricity bills.” July 2023.
2 Teoh Ai Ni, Yun Ii Go, and Tze Chuen Yap. "Is Malaysia ready for sustainable energy? Exploring the attitudes toward solar energy and energy behaviors in Malaysia." World 1.2 (2020): 90-103.
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