What is the price of solar panels in Malaysia?
“What is the cost of solar panels? Are solar systems expensive?”
When you’re feeling excited about getting a solar pv system, are you considering these questions?
Before we get into that topic, you need to know that is no actual solar system price being stated outright in Malaysia. (You’ll read more about this later in this article).
In this article, we’ll explain the factors that affect the price of the solar PV system.
Factors that affect the price of solar panels
Size of the solar PV system
The solar panel system size is determined by two factors:
1) The average electricity consumption
2) The size of your roof
Before determining the size of your solar system size, you need to provide a minimum of 3 months’ electricity bill (or TNB bills) for us to estimate your average electricity consumption.
The limitation of your roof installation area will also affect the size of your solar system.
Type of solar panels
Did you know there are 2 main types of solar panels? They’re Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline solar panels.
Even though each of them has its pros and cons, Polycrystalline solar panels are now widely used for residential solar installations. All thanks to its high conversion efficiency and affordable price.
Psst! Here are some tips for you! How to look for the best solar panels?
Tips: Panels that are made by “Tier 1” solar panel manufacturers are mostly recommended in Malaysia. This tiering system is supported by Bloomberg New Energy Finance as a measurement of their efficiency and warranty durations. Refer here to know more.
So which popular brands are widely used in Malaysia?
Here are the top five popular brands used in Malaysia, which are Canadian Solar, Trina Solar, Jinko Solar, Hanwha Q Cells and etc.
Type of roof
Do you know how many types of roofs are there in Malaysia? The most common types of roofing in Malaysia are tiled roofing, metal roofing and asphalt roofs. Hence, each type of roof requires different mounting mechanisms for your solar installation and the placement of solar panels.
So…what are the differences there?
Tiled Roofing
Before installing the mounting frame on a tiled roof, tiles are usually removed for solar panels. During this process, installers will fix the L-hook mounting frame on your roof truss to ensure it’s properly secured. Those removed tiles will be returned to their original placement after the mounting frame is installed. Since there are more steps required in this solar panel installation, there will be more costs to add.
Metal Roofing
Ribbed or standing seam metal roofs are much easier to install! This is because the mounting frames are connected directly to the metal roof without drilling. The installation process is simple, fast and costs lesser.
Asphalt roofing
Asphalt roofs (known as Shingle roofs) are slightly different, just a little. There are some specific flashing pieces (like studs), drilled into the roof to attach the mounting frames. This installation is also fast, simple and less costly.
Estimated Solar Panel Price
Now, let’s talk about the estimated cost of solar PV systems in Malaysia (this is what you’re waiting for, right?). Please remember, this is just an estimation as the final cost will differ due to the different factors mentioned above.
The average electricity bill for a household is RM200 to RM800. Hence, the system size of 4kWp to 13kWp is recommended and the average price range from RM20,000 to RM50,000.
Any Hidden Cost?
Most solar PV systems come with warranties such as solar panel warranty and solar inverter warranty.
Solar panel: 12 years enhanced product warranty (defects)
This means if there are any defects found, this warranty is claimable.
Solar panel: 25 years linear power output warranty (performance)
The performance of solar panels will decrease over time. This warranty is claimable (subject to performance decrease linearly over the years).
Solar inverter: 5 or 10-year solar inverter warranty
So what do these warranties cover?
It’s included with a 1-for-1 replacement for any physical defect. Most of the installers do not offer a lifetime warranty as most solar panels can last for 25 years and more! That’s right! This means that you can replace your solar panels within the warranty period without extra charge (but labour fees are chargeable).
But, what about maintenance?
It’s recommended to schedule maintenance once every 2 to 3 years so your solar panels are in top condition and performance.
What is the cost of maintenance?
The maintenance fee usually ranges from RM500 to RM1,500 per visit in Malaysia, depending on the system size too! Some companies offer subscription-based maintenance services.
What do you get from this maintenance?
During the scheduled maintenance visit, here are what you can expect:
-Solar PV modules (including cleaning of panels, and inspections)
-Electrical switchboard, inverter and cable
-Mounting structure
-System analysis report
Now, you might be wondering, “How can I track the performance of the solar panels? When shall I know to maintain the solar panels?”
Well, most solar systems come with a free online monitoring system or mobile app that allows you to track the performance and efficiency of solar panels. By monitoring your system regularly, you can reduce the chances of damages found on your solar panels by solving the issues promptly. This can also save you from paying extra costs or unnecessary expenses in future!
Verdant Solar Offers Professional, Fast and Quality Solar Installation
With our years of expertise in residential solar installation, Verdant Solar is a trusted authority in solar panel providers.
When you engage with us, we ensure to install your solar panels seamlessly (with zero defects) or we fix them at no cost. With our solar panel-ready stocks and profound relationship with SEDA & TNB, we promise to install your solar panels within 30 DAYS, or we pay your energy bill (with T&C apply).
Contact us if you would to get a FREE site-survey report on how to install your solar PV system and understand more about the benefits such as warranties, maintenance, permits or incentives offered for your solar PV system.