Solar Panel Installation and Pricing in Malaysia
Updated: Apr 13
Solar power has become increasingly popular as the world shifts toward more sustainable energy sources. With its sunny climate, Malaysia is an ideal location for solar panel installation. However, many people are still unsure about the cost of solar panels in Malaysia and the installation process involved. In this article, we will cover the cost of solar panels in Malaysia and the steps involved in installing a solar PV system.
Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, this article will provide you with valuable information to help you make an informed decision about solar panel installation. So, if you're curious about the cost and installation of solar panels in Malaysia, keep reading!
Solar Panel Installation - Should You "DIY"?
Installing a home solar system by yourself might seem like a good idea, but there are many factors to consider before starting. These include considerations for the different type of panels available as well as the permits and approvals required from government bodies. Moreover, the process of installing a solar system can be broken down into several main steps including determining the appropriate system size, purchasing the necessary equipment, installing the panels, wiring the system, and installing the inverter.
While it is possible to install solar panels on your own, it is important to note that solar panels in Malaysia are not typically sold to the general public, so you may end up forking a larger sum of money for all the necessary equipment. Additionally, installing a solar panel by yourself may void your home insurance policy, since you are not a licensed solar engineer or electrician. In the long run, it makes more sense to contract a local, yet reputable solar company to assist you in powering your house or building with green energy.
Cost of Solar Panel Installation in Malaysia
So, what is the price of a solar panel installation in Malaysia? Well, the price can vary depending on several factors such as the type of house, roof size, and the size of the solar system. Generally, a typical solar system for home use could cost anywhere from RM14,000 to RM46,000 depending on these factors.
The illustration below showcases an estimated cost for a standard solar system installation in Malaysian landed properties. Remember that the installation costs may vary depending on the factors mentioned above and the chosen solar provider.
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 |
Additionally, as a smart consumer, you should approach different solar PV service providers for quotations but be wary of prices that are too good to be true. In most cases, these solar PV service providers cut costs wherever they can in your system, from using lower-grade or even refurbished solar panels that may not last as long as you think they would, to low-grade electrical cables that deteriorate and turn powdery when exposed to harmful UV rays from the sun for prolonged periods. These factors can significantly affect your return on investment and the overall cost of the system over its lifetime. Considering these factors, it is highly recommended to hire a reputable solar contractor for your home.
Now, let's move on to the steps that one has to take after selecting a contractor.
Step 1
Choose the right type of solar panel
There are 3 types of 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 utilisation.
Step 2
Conduct a site survey with an engineer
A licensed engineer will evaluate your current electrical system and your current usage to best determine the system size requirements. On top of that, the engineer is also required to inspect the condition of your roof. This is to ensure that your home is structurally stable to withstand the weight of the installed solar panels. It's common for individuals to overlook shadowing factors when designing a solar system, which is why having an engineer oversee the process is crucial for ensuring all essential components are considered.
Components such as the location and mounting angle of the panel are important to ensure that your panels are operating at its peak performance while delivering the maximum amount of energy for your home.
Step 3:
Secure the right permits for your installation
Next, you need to get the necessary permits for your solar panel installation from government bodies, including Net Energy Metering (NEM) and permits from Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST). These documents ensure that your solar installation is legal and meets all safety requirements set by the government. The good news is that your solar contractor will handle all of these requirements for you. The application approval process could take up to 3-4 weeks for a typical home system, assuming that everything is in order.
Step 4:
Let your solar contractor handle the arrangements
Upon successful approval of the permits and paperwork, your solar contractor will order all the necessary equipment for your solar system, including panels, inverters, electrical wiring, mounting system, as well as nuts and bolts. It's worth noting that you will have already selected the type of panel and inverter that you prefer before signing any contract with the contractor. At this point, your solar contractor will offer you several options that best meet your solar needs.
Next, the installation phase will take place. The solar panel installation process is quick and simple, with construction workers working diligently to ensure that the panels are mounted according to rules and safety regulations, especially to withstand strong winds that could potentially tear off the panels from the structure. After installation, electrical wiring is done and signed off by a licensed GCPV engineer and wireman to ensure correct wiring with no threat to your safety.
Step 5:
Connecting your solar system to the inverter and power grid
After installing your home solar system, the next step is to connect it to the inverter, which is then connected to the existing power grid. During the day, when there is sufficient sunlight, the inverters are powered up automatically by the panels and start to supply electricity to your house. You can monitor the current electricity generation by checking the display on the inverter. As night time approaches and there is insufficient voltage to power the inverter, your home will switch back to using energy supplied by the grid.
The Bottomline
Solar energy is one of the most important energy sources in the world with increased attention throughout recent years. This is due to the public’s growing awareness for the effects of global warming and the role of renewable energy in reducing its effects. With lower costs and improvements in technology, an increasing number of people are now adopting solar systems in their homes and businesses. We believe that by the combined effort and swift initiation, it is possible to simultaneously operate sustainably and achieve the ambitious targets of climate change mitigation to conserve the future of our planet.
Progressture Solar provides turnkey solutions for solar PV system ownership. We pivot on constructing the most reliable, safest, and highest quality solar PV systems for commercial and industrial buildings. We work with the best brands across the globe, from solar panels, inverters, and wires, down to the last bolt for long-lasting reliability.
To find out more about how we can ease your journey toward a clean energy transition and Renewable Energy development, visit our website or talk to our experts today.
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