Why More Landed Homeowners in Singapore Are Switching to Solar Energy in 2025

From Serangoon Gardens to Bukit Timah, homeowners of landed properties in Singapore are embracing solar energy at an unprecedented rate. What began as a niche move driven by environmental enthusiasts has evolved into a practical, financially motivated decision among families looking to future-proof their homes against rising utility costs.

Recent data from solar contractors show that residential solar enquiries have risen by over 30% year-on-year in 2025. This uptick reflects a nationwide shift in perception: solar is no longer a luxury or novelty—it’s becoming a mainstream feature of modern landed homes.

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Solar Panel Installation Cost for Landed Homes in Singapore (2025 Update)

One of the main drivers of adoption is falling cost. As of Q2 2025, the average solar system for a landed property in Singapore ranges from S$18,000 to S$35,000, depending on size, roof configuration, and equipment type.

Typical cost and suitability breakdown:

Most landed homeowners opt for 6–10 kWp systems, which generate enough electricity to cover 50% to 100% of a household’s monthly energy usage.

Solar Panel Cost for Factories & Warehouses in Singapore

In 2025, commercial solar panel installation in Singapore costs between S$1,100 and S$1,700 per kWp, depending on system size, roof conditions, and equipment used. Here’s a quick guide:

• 50 kWp system (small factory): S$60,000 – S$80,000

• 100 kWp system (mid-sized facility): S$110,000 – S$150,000

• 180–250 kWp system (large warehouse): S$180,000 – S$320,000

• 500+ kWp (industrial plant): S$500,000+

These systems typically require 6–15 years of operation space, depending on size and output.

What Are the Savings?

A 100 kWp system can produce up to 140,000 kWh per year, potentially saving over S$36,000 annually. Most businesses recover their investment within 3.5 to 5 years. Solar systems last 25 years or more, offering long-term cost control and a lower carbon footprint.

Payment Options

You don’t always need to pay upfront. There are three common options:

1. Outright Purchase (CAPEX): You own the system and enjoy maximum savings.

2. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): No upfront cost. You buy the solar energy at a discounted rate.

3. Rent-to-Own: Fixed monthly fee, with ownership after 10–15 years.

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High ROI: 5-Year Payback and S$50,000 Lifetime Savings

Although the upfront cost can seem significant, the long-term return on investment (ROI) is compelling. Based on current electricity rates of S$0.29/kWh, and solar generation costs averaging S$0.11 to S$0.14/kWh, most systems pay for themselves in 4 to 6 years.

For a household consuming 1,000 kWh per month, a 10 kWp solar system could save S$300–S$400 monthly, resulting in over S$50,000 saved over 25 years.

Once the break-even point is reached, all additional solar output becomes “free electricity,” further accelerating savings or allowing resale to the grid via the Open Electricity Market (OEM).

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Navigating URA and BCA Approval: What Landed Homeowners Need to Know

Installing solar on a landed property in Singapore requires compliance with government regulations. All installations must be approved by:

• Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) – for visual and structural compliance

• Building and Construction Authority (BCA) – for structural safety and rooftop integrity

• Energy Market Authority (EMA) – for systems connected to the grid

Reputable contractors will handle submission of plans and technical documents, including Professional Engineer (PE) endorsements where required. Only EMA-licensed contractors are permitted to carry out grid-connected installations.

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Solar Panel Safety: What the Data and Experts Say

Properly installed solar panels are extremely safe. However, Singapore’s humid climate and high UV exposure do mean that safety depends on the installer’s quality.

According to the SCDF, fire incidents involving solar panels—though rare—have increased with more installations. The leading causes are:

• Substandard connectors or wiring

• Faulty inverters

• Poor system grounding

• Improper string design

To counter this, leading installers like 1st Solution Group deploy systems with:

• AI-integrated monitoring to detect faults in real-time

• Rapid shutdown modules to reduce live current from 1,000V to below 30V

• Arc fault detection and isolation technology

These systems not only protect the home but allow remote diagnostics and preemptive servicing, reducing both downtime and risk.

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FAQ: Common Concerns from Landed Homeowners in Singapore

❓ How much roof space do I need for solar panels?

A 10 kWp system typically requires 50–60 m² of shade-free roof area. East-west aligned roofs are ideal in Singapore due to our equatorial sun path, though modern systems can optimise performance even on north-south layouts with adjustable mounting.

❓ Can I power my air-conditioning and EV with solar?

Yes. Air conditioning and EV charging are two of the highest energy demands in Singapore households.

• An energy-efficient inverter aircon system can use up to 2.5 kWh per hour.

• A BMW i5 or Tesla Model 3 charging cycle consumes 40–60 kWh monthly.

A 2–3 kWp system alone can offset EV charging. Most homeowners opt for hybrid coverage—solar during the day, grid use at night, and battery support for peak-hour stability.

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Rent-to-Own Solar Panel Plans: Zero Upfront, Immediate Savings

Solar adoption is no longer restricted to those with S$30,000 cash reserves. In 2025, rent-to-own (RTO) solar plans are rapidly gaining traction among landed homeowners.

Here’s how it works:

• Zero upfront: No down payment required

• Flat monthly fees: From S$180–S$320/month, depending on system size

• Ownership transfer: After 10–15 years

• Full servicing: Maintenance and system insurance included

Some providers even offer performance guarantees, where you pay only if the system delivers expected savings. These programmes help families hedge against rising energy tariffs while protecting their capital reserves.

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A Booming Market with Over 100 Licensed Installers

The residential solar landscape is more competitive than ever. In 2025, over 100 EMA-licensed firms provide solar panel installation in Singapore, ranging from end-to-end turnkey providers to niche specialists.

Leading firms include:

• 1st Solution Group – known for residential expertise and integrated monitoring

• Eigen Energy – with 1,000+ landed projects completed

• SolarPVExchange – Singapore’s first solar marketplace platform

Key service differentiators now include:

• Real-time mobile apps for performance monitoring

• Battery storage options for night-time use

• Smart energy dashboards integrated with SP Group metering

As the market matures, transparency in pricing, warranty coverage, and after-sales service are becoming as important as panel quality.

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Solar Is the New Norm for Landed Homes

With solar panels now seen as a basic property enhancement, much like EV chargers or water filtration systems, landed homeowners are taking the leap not just for cost savings, but for future-proofing and resale value.

In fact, homes with solar systems tend to command higher valuations, especially among younger, sustainability-conscious buyers. As carbon taxes and green building standards tighten, early adoption may yield additional financial advantages in future compliance scenarios.

Case Studies: How Landed Homeowners Are Saving With Solar

Case Study 1: 8 kWp for a Corner Terrace in Thomson

Mr and Mrs Tan, owners of a 3,200 sqft corner terrace in Thomson, installed an 8 kWp solar system in mid-2024. Their monthly electricity usage averaged 850 kWh, driven by daily air-conditioning and an EV charger.

Results:

• Monthly solar generation: ~960 kWh

• Monthly bill before solar: ~S$260

• Monthly bill after solar: ~S$40

• Payback period: ~5.2 years

• Lifetime projected savings: Over S$55,000

“Initially we were worried about the payback period, but with grid sell-back and lower tariffs, it’s one of the best decisions we’ve made for our home,” said Mr Tan.

Case Study 2: 12 kWp for a Bungalow in Bukit Timah

A family of six in Bukit Timah decided to go all in with a 12 kWp hybrid solar-battery system. With their pool, central cooling system, and two EVs, their monthly consumption hit 1,500–1,800 kWh.

System Features:

• 12 kWp high-efficiency monocrystalline panels

• 10 kWh lithium-ion battery for night use

• Cloud-based monitoring app

Outcome:

• Grid reliance cut by 65%

• Estimated breakeven in 4.8 years

• Carbon footprint reduction: ~6 tonnes/year

The family now enjoys the convenience of uninterrupted solar-backed power, even during grid outages.

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Feed-in Tariffs: Selling Excess Solar Back to the Grid

Under the Enhanced Central Intermediary Scheme (ECIS), landed homeowners with solar can sell their excess energy to the SP Group grid. The process is seamless:

1. EMA-licensed installer notifies SP Services

2. A bi-directional smart meter is installed

3. Surplus solar energy is exported and tracked

4. Credits are reflected in the monthly SP bill

As of mid-2025, the market rate for solar export is ~S$0.09–S$0.12/kWh. While this is slightly lower than retail import rates, it still generates meaningful monthly returns.

For example, exporting 200 kWh/month could earn back S$24 monthly, adding another S$6,000+ in system value over two decades.

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Long-Term Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Many homeowners assume solar panels are maintenance-heavy. In reality, solar systems are built to last and have minimal servicing needs.

Expected Costs Over 25 Years:

Solar panels themselves often carry 25-year product warranties and 30-year performance guarantees. The only real maintenance expense is the inverter swap around the 12-year mark.

Premium installers also include free system health reports via their apps and email every 6–12 months, ensuring homeowners are always in the loop.

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What to Look for in a Licensed Solar Installer

Not all contractors are created equal. With over 100 solar firms now competing for residential projects in Singapore, here’s what separates a professional, safe, and durable installation from a risky one:

✅ What to Check:

• EMA licence and case study portfolio

• URA/BCA regulatory experience

• Warranty terms (minimum 25 years for panels, 10 years for inverters)

• Custom site inspection and shading simulation

• Use of TUV/IEC-certified panels and inverters

• Safety training (WSH, IRATA, working-at-heights)

🚩 Red Flags to Avoid:

• Incomplete quotation or vague pricing

• “Cash only” payment offers with no invoice

• No documentation of system specs or regulatory approvals

• Lack of rapid shutdown or arc fault protection features

• No aftersales or performance guarantee

It is always advisable to get at least two site assessments and request a sample proposal. A reputable installer should be able to project solar yield, show a shading model, and provide breakdowns of panel brands, inverter models, and warranties.

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Why Choose 1st Solution Group for Solar Panel Installation in Singapore?

1st Solution Group is one of the most trusted names for residential and commercial solar panel installation in Singapore. With over a decade of experience, we’ve helped hundreds of landed homeowners across Serangoon, Bukit Timah, Upper Thomson, and East Coast transition to solar energy with confidence.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• ✅ Custom system design based on actual household usage

• ✅ Flexible plans including outright purchase and rent-to-own solar models

• ✅ Tier-1 panels with 25-year output guarantees

• ✅ AI-powered monitoring via user-friendly mobile app

• ✅ Seamless paperwork and BCA/URA approvals handled for you

• ✅ Dedicated support team for maintenance and warranty

We also offer bundled options with EV charging points, battery systems, and smart home integration—making it easier than ever to upgrade your landed home into a modern, energy-efficient asset.

⚡ Ready to install solar panels on your landed property in Singapore?
Contact 1st Solution Group today to request a personalised roof analysis and free solar estimate.
Visit www.firstsolution.com.sg or call +65 9855 6824 to schedule your site visit.