Are you considering switching to solar energy for your home in Malaysia? Solar power is a fantastic way to reduce electricity bills and make a positive environmental impact. However, before moving forward with the installation, it’s important to check if your rooftop is suitable for solar panels. Unlike other regions, Malaysia’s tropical climate means you don’t have to worry about the angle of the sun or roof orientation.
Here is all you need to know before installing solar – plus examples and a case study to make the process easier to understand!
1. Roof Space: Ample and Unobstructed
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In Malaysia, one of the most important factors is having enough unshaded space on your roof for the solar panels. Solar panels typically require a significant amount of space, and each panel measures about 2.5m by 1.2m. The more panels you need, the more roof space you’ll require.
- Ideal Roof: Large, clear areas without obstructions such as roof vents, skylights, solar water heater, television aerial and lightning arrestor (protects against lightning).
- Acceptable Roof: Medium-sized roof with a few minor obstructions.
- Not Ideal Roof: Small roof or one cluttered with multiple obstructions that limit installation space.
2. Shade: Minimize Shadows
Shade is one of the main factors that can affect solar panel efficiency in Malaysia. While the sun is generally intense throughout the year, any nearby trees, buildings, or other structures that cast shadows on your roof can reduce the amount of sunlight your solar panels can absorb. This is especially important during 4 hours of peak sunlight hours.
- Ideal Roof: Little to no shade throughout the day, especially in peak sunlight hours.
- Acceptable Roof: Some shade during certain times of the day, but manageable with the right technology like microinverters.
- Not Ideal Roof: Significant shading from trees, neighbouring buildings, or other obstructions that could impact energy generation.
3. Roof Condition: Ensure Structural Integrity
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Before installing solar, it’s essential to check your roof’s condition. Solar PV panels are a long-term investment that can last for 25 years or more, so you want to ensure your roof can handle the weight and exposure. If your roof is old or in need of repairs, it’s better to address these issues before installing solar panels.
- Ideal Roof: New or well-maintained roofs in good condition.
- Acceptable Roof: Roofs that are still in good condition but might show signs of aging.
- Not Ideal Roof: Damaged, thin or rusty roofs that may need repairs or replacement before installation.
4. Roof Type: Flat or Sloped?
In Malaysia, both flat and pitched roofs are common. Fortunately, solar PV panels can be installed on either type, though each may require different mounting solutions. For example, flat roofs might need additional racks to tilt the panels for optimal efficiency, while sloped roofs are typically easier to install.
- Ideal Roof: 0–10° Slope: Flat or low-slope roofs are ideal for solar installations in Malaysia because they are easy to install and maximize energy generation due to the country's climate.
- Acceptable Roof: 11–20° Slope: Roofs with a moderate slope are still suitable for solar panels. Generally, the lower the roof angle, the better the solar performance throughout the day.
- Not Ideal Roof: Above 30° Slope: Steeply sloped roofs pose higher installation risks and may require additional safety equipment, which can increase costs and complexity.
5. Other Factors to Consider Why Your Roof is Not Solar-Ready
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In addition to your rooftop not being ready, here are factors below on why your system may not be ready:
- Your Home is Still Under Construction: If your home is under construction, solar readiness depends on timely planning. To future-proof your energy needs, engage solar experts like Sunview during the design phase to coordinate roof orientation, cable routing and inverter location, etc.
- TNB Bill Account Ownership: Your Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) electricity bill must be under the same name as the property owner. If the account is under a tenant’s name, a transfer or written approval from the owner (landlord) may be required before proceeding. This ensures that Net Energy Metering (NEM) and Feed-in Tariff (FiT) applications align with the rightful owner.
- Single-Phase vs. Three-Phase Electrical Supply: Malaysia’s homes use either single-phase (common in smaller homes, with limited capacity for high-powered solar) or three-phase (better for larger solar PV systems and higher energy demand). Checking your supply type ensures system compatibility.
Case Study: Residential Solar Installation in Malaysia
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Let’s look at an example of a home in Kuala Lumpur, where a family decided to install solar panels to reduce their electricity bills and contribute to sustainability.
After an assessment by Sunview Group, here’s what was found:
- Roof Space: The roof had plenty of space to install several solar panels without any major obstructions.
- Shade: There was a small amount of shade in the late afternoon from a nearby tree, but this was manageable using microinverters, which optimize panel performance.
- Roof Condition: The roof was relatively new and in good condition, making it a perfect candidate for solar panel installation.
- Roof Type: The house had a sloped roof, which made installation straightforward.
With these favourable conditions, Sunview Group recommended installing a high-quality solar PV system that would reduce the family’s electricity costs and provide long-term energy savings.
6. Consult the Experts: Sunview Group
Assessing the suitability of your roof for solar panel installation can be complex, but Sunview Group makes it easy. Our team of experts provides end-to-end engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning (EPCC) solar services for residential homes all over Malaysia.
With over 10 years of experience in both commercial solar and home solar projects in Malaysia, we ensure you make the most of your investment in solar energy with SunVast, our solar solution for homes. Switching to clean energy can save you up to 90% off your monthly electricity bills. Check out how much your home can be saving with SunVast and start your solar journey today with us here today!
Conclusion
Determining if your rooftop is suitable for solar in Malaysia doesn’t involve worrying about roof angles or orientation, thanks to the consistent sunlight throughout the year. Instead, focus on ensuring there’s enough space, minimal shading and good roof condition. If you're uncertain about your roof’s suitability, it’s always a good idea to reach out to professionals like Sunview Group. We will guide you throughout the process and help you take full advantage of the benefits of solar energy.
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