Why Solar Myths Can Outsmart the Smart Singapore Homeowners in 2026
You have done the research. You have compared quotes. You might even know the difference between monocrystalline and N-type panels. And yet, there is a very good chance that at least one persistent solar myth is quietly shaping how you evaluate your next purchase.
The solar industry in Singapore has matured rapidly. Costs have dropped, technology has improved, and thousands of landed homes now generate their own electricity. But misinformation has matured too. The old myths — "solar doesn't work when it rains" — are easy to spot. The dangerous myths are subtler. They hide in contract fine print, in optimistic sales proposals, and in assumptions that sound perfectly reasonable until they cost you money.
This guide exposes 15 solar panel myths that circulate in Singapore — from the obvious ones to the industry-insider misconceptions that even well-researched homeowners fall for. For each myth, we explain why people believe it, what the actual truth is, and exactly what you should do to protect yourself.
Whether you are getting your first quote or comparing your third proposal, this is the honest reference guide you need before signing anything.
Quick Reference: 15 Solar Myths vs. Facts
Before we go deep, here is the summary. Bookmark this table and come back to it when you are evaluating proposals.
MythRealityRisk LevelSolar does not work in Singapore's weatherSingapore gets 1,580+ peak sun hours annually — ideal for solarLowSolar is too expensiveCosts dropped 70%+ in a decade; payback in 4–7 yearsLowYou need a huge, north-facing roofModern panels work on east/west roofs; small systems still saveLowPanels need constant maintenanceRain cleans them; annual inspection is sufficientLowDefects Liability Period protects you for yearsDLP is typically only 12–24 months, not a long-term warrantyHigh25-year warranty means full coveragePanel warranty ≠ installer warranty; terms vary drasticallyHighHome insurance covers solar damageMost standard policies exclude solar; riders are neededHighCheapest quote is the smartest choiceLow price often means inferior equipment or no after-salesHighPanels produce the same energy forever0.4–0.7% annual degradation is normal and realMediumSystem will produce exactly what proposal saysProposals show P50 estimates; real output varies year to yearHighAll solar panels are the sameEfficiency, degradation, and warranty terms vary enormouslyMediumBigger system always means better savingsOversizing wastes money if export rates are lowMediumWait for better, cheaper technologyWaiting costs you years of savings; improvements are incrementalMediumNet metering pays you for all solar powerSingapore uses sell-to-grid at wholesale, not retail, ratesMediumSolar hurts property resale valueOwned solar systems increase home value by 3–5%Low
Now let us go deep on each one.
Part 1: The Starter Myths Everyone Tells You
These are the myths that dominate Google results. They are easy to debunk, but we include them for completeness — and because some salespeople still use outdated versions of these to pressure you.
Myth 1: "Solar Panels Don't Work Well in Singapore's Tropical Weather"
Why people believe it: Singapore receives roughly 167 rainy days per year. Thunderstorms can be dramatic. It is natural to assume solar panels need blazing, uninterrupted sunshine.
The truth: Solar panels generate electricity from light, not heat. Singapore sits virtually on the equator, receiving consistent daylight year-round with no short winter days. The country averages 1,580 peak sun hours annually — more than enough for strong solar production. On overcast days, panels still produce 25–40% of their rated output from diffused light. Rain actually helps by washing away dust and pollen that would otherwise reduce efficiency. And unlike temperate countries, Singapore has no snow, frost, or seasonal darkness to worry about.
What to do: When comparing proposals, ask for yield estimates that already account for Singapore's weather patterns. Reputable installers use satellite irradiance data and localised weather models, not generic assumptions.
Myth 2: "Solar Is Still Too Expensive for Most Singapore Homeowners"
Why people believe it: A decade ago, residential solar in Singapore was genuinely expensive — upwards of S$3 per watt installed. That perception lingered even as costs collapsed.
The truth: Solar panel costs have dropped more than 70% since 2014. A well-designed system for a typical landed home now costs between S$12,000 and S$25,000 depending on system size. With monthly electricity savings of S$200–S$450, most systems achieve payback within 4–7 years. After payback, every kilowatt-hour generated is essentially free electricity for the remaining 20+ years of the system's life. Subscription and financing models have further eliminated the upfront cost barrier entirely for many homeowners.
What to do: Request a detailed payback analysis from your installer. Compare total cost of ownership over 25 years — not just the sticker price. Read our Solar Panel Cost Singapore 2026 guide for full pricing breakdowns by property type.
Myth 3: "You Need a Huge, North-Facing Roof for Solar to Work"
Why people believe it: This advice comes from the Northern Hemisphere, where south-facing roofs (or north-facing in Australia) receive the most sun. Singapore homeowners hear "orientation matters" and assume their east-west roof is unsuitable.
The truth: Singapore is 1.3 degrees north of the equator. The sun passes almost directly overhead year-round, meaning east-facing and west-facing roofs receive excellent irradiance. A west-facing roof in Singapore typically produces 90–95% as much energy as a north-facing one. Even partially shaded roofs can perform well with modern microinverters or power optimisers that allow each panel to operate independently. A compact 6-panel system on a terrace house roof can still offset 50–70% of a household's electricity bill.
What to do: Do not disqualify your roof based on orientation alone. Get a professional site assessment. Check our guide on solar panels for terrace houses to see what is achievable with limited roof space.
Myth 4: "Solar Panels Need Constant Cleaning and Maintenance"
Why people believe it: Homeowners are used to maintaining air-conditioning systems, water heaters, and other household equipment. It seems logical that a complex electrical system on your roof would need regular attention.
The truth: Solar panels have no moving parts. They sit on your roof, silently converting light to electricity. Singapore's frequent rainfall acts as a natural cleaning mechanism, washing away most dust and debris. A professional inspection once a year is recommended to check wiring, mounting brackets, and inverter health — but this is a brief, low-cost exercise, not a major maintenance commitment. The inverter is the only component that may need replacement once during the system's lifetime, typically after 10–15 years.
What to do: Ask your installer what their standard maintenance package includes and whether monitoring is provided. A good monitoring app will alert you to performance drops before they become problems.
Part 2: The Dangerous Contract and Protection Myths
This is where it gets serious. These four myths involve real money, real contracts, and real gaps in protection. They are the myths that separate an informed buyer from someone who discovers problems only after signing.
Myth 5: "The Defects Liability Period Will Protect Me for Years"
Why people believe it: When you sign a solar installation contract, it typically includes a Defects Liability Period (DLP). The term sounds reassuring. Many homeowners assume this is their safety net — a multi-year guarantee that the contractor will come back and fix anything that goes wrong.
The truth: A Defects Liability Period is a specific contractual mechanism borrowed from the construction industry. In solar EPCC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Commissioning) contracts, the DLP is typically only 12 to 24 months from the date of practical completion or system commissioning. It is not a warranty in the consumer sense. It is a narrow window during which the contractor is obligated to rectify defects in workmanship or materials that arise due to non-conformance with the contract specifications.
Here is what the DLP does not cover:
The DLP also differs fundamentally from product warranties issued by equipment manufacturers. A panel manufacturer might offer a 12-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty. These are separate from the installer's DLP. If the installer goes out of business after 18 months, your DLP becomes meaningless — but the manufacturer warranties may still be claimable, provided you have the documentation.
What to do: Read the DLP clause in your contract carefully. Note the exact duration and what it covers. Then ask these questions:
The smartest approach is to choose an installer whose post-DLP support is clearly defined. At Sunollo, our Savings Guarantee extends well beyond any standard DLP because we believe system performance is a long-term commitment, not a 12-month checkbox.
Myth 6: "A 25-Year Warranty Means I'm Fully Covered for 25 Years"
Why people believe it: Every solar proposal highlights impressive warranty numbers: 25-year performance warranty, 12-year product warranty, 10-year inverter warranty. These numbers create a powerful sense of security. Homeowners reasonably assume they are protected for decades.
The truth: Solar warranties are not a single, unified guarantee. They are a layered system of separate commitments from different parties, each with different terms, exclusions, and claim processes.
Panel product warranty (typically 12–15 years): This covers manufacturing defects — cracked cells, delamination, junction box failures. It does not cover damage from external causes, improper installation, or normal wear. Claims go to the panel manufacturer, not your installer.
Panel performance warranty (typically 25–30 years): This guarantees minimum power output over time, usually 84–87% of rated capacity at year 25. However, proving a performance warranty claim requires independent testing, which is expensive. The warranty holder is the manufacturer, often based overseas. If the manufacturer exits the market or is acquired, warranty enforcement becomes extremely difficult.
Inverter warranty (typically 5–12 years): Inverters are the most failure-prone component. A 5-year inverter warranty on a 25-year system means you are unprotected for 20 years on the component most likely to fail. Some manufacturers offer paid warranty extensions to 15 or 20 years — worth every cent.
Installer workmanship warranty (varies wildly): This is the critical gap. Your installer's warranty on their actual work — wiring, mounting, roof penetrations, system configuration — might be as short as 1–2 years (essentially the DLP). Some premium installers offer 5–10 year workmanship warranties. Many offer nothing beyond the DLP.
What to do:
Myth 7: "My Home Insurance Automatically Covers Solar Panel Damage"
Why people believe it: Solar panels are attached to your home. Home insurance covers your home. The logical conclusion seems obvious.
The truth: Most standard home insurance policies in Singapore do not automatically cover solar panel systems. Solar panels are classified as external fixtures or additions, and many policies explicitly exclude them or limit coverage to named perils only.
As of 2026, only a handful of Singapore insurers offer specific solar panel coverage:
Standard policies from most other insurers require you to add a specific rider or endorsement for solar panels — at additional cost. Without this rider, damage from storms, falling debris, electrical surges, or even theft may not be covered. HDB fire insurance, which is compulsory for HDB flat owners, does not cover solar installations.
The risk is not theoretical. Singapore experiences severe thunderstorms, and lightning strikes can damage inverters and wiring. A single uninsured inverter replacement can cost S$2,000–S$5,000.
What to do:
Myth 8: "The Cheapest Quote Is Always the Smartest Choice"
Why people believe it: Solar panels look the same on a roof. If two companies offer a 10 kWp system, why not pick the one that charges S$5,000 less? The logic seems sound, especially when budgets are tight.
The truth: In Singapore's solar market, price variation between quotes often reflects genuine differences in quality, not just profit margins. A significantly cheaper quote usually means one or more of these trade-offs:
Lower-tier equipment: Budget quotes often use panels from lesser-known manufacturers with shorter warranties, higher degradation rates, and limited regional service support. The S$5,000 you save upfront might cost you S$15,000 in lost production over 25 years.
Minimal after-sales support: The cheapest installers often operate with skeleton crews. When your system needs attention in year 3, they may be slow to respond, charge premium rates for service calls, or no longer be in business.
Substandard installation practices: Roof penetrations that are not properly sealed lead to leaks. Wiring that does not meet SP Group standards leads to connection issues. Mounting that is not engineered for wind loads leads to panel movement. These problems emerge months or years after installation, long after you have paid.
No monitoring or optimisation: Premium installers include system monitoring, performance alerts, and periodic reviews. Budget installers hand over the keys and disappear. Without monitoring, an underperforming system can go undetected for years.
What to do: Compare quotes on a like-for-like basis. Create a comparison table that includes: panel brand and model, inverter brand and warranty, workmanship warranty duration, monitoring inclusion, and post-installation support terms. The cheapest total cost of ownership over 25 years is what matters — not the cheapest day-one price. Our guide to choosing the best solar company walks you through this evaluation in detail.
Part 3: The Performance Myths That Cost You Money
These myths relate to how solar systems actually perform once installed. Misunderstanding these can lead to disappointment, misaligned expectations, and poor purchasing decisions.
Myth 9: "My Panels Will Produce the Same Energy Forever — Degradation Is Negligible"
Why people believe it: Sales presentations focus on the impressive 25–30 year lifespan. Degradation is mentioned briefly, if at all, as a trivial 0.5% per year figure that sounds insignificant. Many homeowners walk away thinking their system will produce essentially the same output in year 20 as in year 1.
The truth: Panel degradation is real, measurable, and cumulative. It is not a myth to be debunked — it is a physical reality that every honest solar proposal should account for.
Here is what degradation actually looks like in Singapore's tropical climate:
First-year degradation (Light-Induced Degradation or LID): New panels typically experience a 1–3% drop in output during their first year of operation as the silicon cells stabilise under sunlight exposure. This is normal and expected. Premium N-type panels (like AIKO's All Back Contact technology) experience significantly lower first-year degradation — often below 1% — compared to older P-type panels.
Annual degradation thereafter: Quality panels degrade at 0.4–0.7% per year under normal conditions. In Singapore's tropical environment, the primary degradation drivers are UV radiation, high humidity, and thermal cycling. Research on photovoltaic modules in tropical conditions has identified encapsulant yellowing, corrosion, and potential-induced degradation (PID) as the most significant long-term degradation mechanisms.
Cumulative effect over 25 years: At 0.5% annual degradation, a system producing 10,000 kWh in year 1 will produce approximately 8,800 kWh in year 25 — a 12% total decline. At 0.7% annual degradation (common in lower-quality panels), the same system drops to about 8,400 kWh — a 16% decline. That difference of 400 kWh per year between a good panel and a mediocre one compounds to over 5,000 kWh of lost production across the system lifetime.
Degradation RateOutput at Year 10Output at Year 250.4% per year (premium)96.0% of original90.4% of original0.55% per year (good)94.6% of original87.2% of original0.7% per year (budget)93.2% of original84.0% of original
What to do:
Myth 10: "My System Will Produce Exactly What the Sales Proposal Promises"
Why people believe it: Your installer shows you a beautiful proposal: "Your 10 kWp system will generate 12,500 kWh per year, saving you S$4,375 annually." The number looks precise. It is calculated by software. It feels like a guarantee.
The truth: That number in your proposal is almost certainly a P50 estimate — and most homeowners have no idea what that means.
What is P50? P50 means there is a 50% probability that your system will produce at least that amount of energy in any given year. Think of it as the median expectation. Half the years, you will exceed it. Half the years, you will fall short. It is not a guarantee — it is the middle of the bell curve.
What is P90? P90 means there is a 90% probability your system will produce at least that amount. This is the conservative estimate. In the solar finance industry, banks use P90 figures for loan sizing because they need high confidence the system will generate enough savings to cover repayments. P90 values are typically 10–15% lower than P50.
Why this matters for homeowners:
If your proposal says 12,500 kWh (P50), your actual first-year production could realistically be anywhere from 10,600 kWh (a poor weather year) to 13,800 kWh (an excellent weather year). The P90 value for the same system might be around 10,800–11,200 kWh.
Year-to-year variation in Singapore is driven by:
The critical question most homeowners never ask: Is this proposal showing me a P50 or P90 figure? Most residential proposals show P50 because it is the bigger, more attractive number. There is nothing dishonest about P50 — it is the industry standard — but you need to understand what it means for your payback period.
If your payback calculation is based on P50 and you experience two consecutive below-average years, your actual payback period extends by 12–18 months. If you budgeted tightly around the P50 savings figure, this can feel like the system is "underperforming" when it is actually performing within normal statistical range.
What to do:
Myth 11: "All Solar Panels Are Basically the Same — Just a Commodity"
Why people believe it: Solar panels look similar. They are all rectangular, dark, and sit on your roof. It is easy to assume the technology is standardised and the only real difference is brand name and price.
The truth: The performance gap between budget panels and premium panels is significant and compounds over 25 years. Here are the real differences that matter:
Cell technology: Older P-type PERC panels are cheaper but have higher degradation rates and lower efficiency. Newer N-type panels (TOPCon, HJT, and All Back Contact) offer higher efficiency, lower degradation, better performance in heat, and stronger low-light output. In Singapore's hot, humid climate, this technology difference translates directly into more kilowatt-hours produced per square metre of roof.
Efficiency: Budget panels operate at 19–20% efficiency. Premium panels reach 23–24%. On a space-constrained terrace house roof where you can fit 8–12 panels, this 4% efficiency difference can mean 15–20% more total system output from the same roof area.
Temperature coefficient: All panels lose efficiency as they heat up. Budget panels might lose 0.40% of output per degree above 25°C. Premium panels lose only 0.28–0.30%. In Singapore, where rooftop panel temperatures regularly exceed 50°C, this difference is substantial.
Warranty terms: Premium panels typically come with 15-year product warranties and 30-year performance warranties guaranteeing 87%+ output at year 30. Budget panels may offer only 10-year product warranties and 25-year performance warranties with 80% output guarantees.
What to do: When comparing proposals, look beyond the price-per-watt. Compare the projected lifetime energy production (kWh over 25 years), the warranted degradation rate, and the temperature coefficient. A panel that costs 15% more but produces 10% more energy annually for 25 years is the better investment by far. See our best solar panels guide for detailed brand comparisons.
Myth 12: "A Bigger System Always Means Better Savings"
Why people believe it: More panels equal more electricity equals more savings. The logic seems irrefutable, and some installers encourage oversizing because larger systems mean higher revenue for them.
The truth: In Singapore, the economics of solar depend heavily on how much of your generated electricity you actually consume versus how much you export to the grid. This is where oversizing can backfire.
Self-consumption vs. grid export: Electricity you generate and use directly in your home offsets your retail electricity rate (currently around S$0.30–S$0.35 per kWh). Electricity you generate but do not use gets exported to the grid under SP Group's simplified credit treatment (SCT) at the prevailing wholesale energy price — which is typically only S$0.08–S$0.15 per kWh. You are effectively selling surplus power at less than half the price you would pay to buy it back.
The oversizing trap: If your household consumes 800 kWh per month and you install a system that generates 1,200 kWh per month, the excess 400 kWh is exported at the low wholesale rate. You paid for the panels that generate that 400 kWh, but you only receive a fraction of the value. The extra S$3,000–S$5,000 you spent on those additional panels has a much longer payback period — sometimes 12–15 years instead of 5–7 years.
When bigger does make sense: If you plan to add an electric vehicle (EV) charger, a home battery, or other high-consumption appliances in the near future, sizing up can be smart forward planning. An EV alone can add 300–500 kWh of monthly consumption, turning your "oversized" system into a perfectly sized one.
What to do:
Part 4: The Strategic Myths That Delay Your Decision
These myths do not cost you money through bad purchases. They cost you money by keeping you on the sideline while your electricity bills keep climbing.
Myth 13: "I Should Wait for Better, Cheaper Technology"
Why people believe it: Technology improves constantly. Smartphones, laptops, TVs — everything gets better and cheaper if you wait. Solar must work the same way, right?
The truth: Solar panel technology is mature. The dramatic cost reductions and efficiency gains of the past decade are unlikely to repeat at the same pace. Panel efficiency improvements now happen in increments of 0.5–1% per year — meaningful for manufacturers, but marginal for a homeowner deciding whether to install this year or next.
Here is the real cost of waiting:
If your system would save you S$300 per month, every year you delay costs you S$3,600 in electricity bills you did not need to pay. A hypothetical 5% price drop next year saves you perhaps S$600–S$1,000 on installation — while you spent S$3,600 waiting. The mathematics of waiting almost never work in the homeowner's favour.
Furthermore, Singapore's electricity tariffs have been on an upward trend. Higher future tariffs increase the value of every kWh your solar system generates, making earlier installation more financially rewarding, not less.
What to do: If your roof is suitable and your finances allow it, the best time to install is now. Every month of delay is a month of savings you will never recover. The only valid reason to wait is if a specific technology upgrade (like adding a battery) requires a particular system configuration that is not yet available.
Myth 14: "Net Metering Means Singapore Pays Me for All My Solar Power"
Why people believe it: The term "net metering" is widely used, and in some countries (like parts of the US and Australia), it does mean you receive retail-rate credit for exported solar power. Singapore homeowners hear about net metering and assume the same generous arrangement applies here.
The truth: Singapore does not have true net metering. Instead, it uses a system called the Simplified Credit Treatment (SCT) administered by SP Group under the Enhanced Central Intermediary Scheme (ECIS).
Under SCT, here is what actually happens:
This asymmetry means that self-consumption (using your solar power directly) is worth roughly 2–3 times more than exporting it. Designing your system and consumption habits to maximise self-consumption is far more valuable than maximising total generation.
What to do: Focus on matching your solar generation to your daytime consumption. Run dishwashers, washing machines, and EV chargers during peak solar hours. Consider a home battery to store daytime excess for evening use instead of exporting at low rates. Read our OEM electricity plan guide to optimise your retail plan alongside solar.
Myth 15: "Solar Panels Will Hurt My Property Resale Value"
Why people believe it: Some homeowners worry that buyers will view rooftop solar as an eyesore, a maintenance burden, or a complication during resale. There is a lingering perception that modifications to the home's exterior can deter buyers.
The truth: Research consistently shows that homes with owned solar systems sell for a premium. Studies in the US found that solar adds 3–4% to home values. In Singapore's context, where landed property buyers increasingly prioritise sustainability and energy independence, solar is becoming a desirable feature rather than a deterrent.
Consider the buyer's perspective: a home with solar already installed means immediate electricity savings from day one, no need to manage an installation project, and a demonstrated commitment to a modern, efficient home. As EV adoption grows, having solar infrastructure already in place (and potentially an EV charger) becomes an increasingly attractive selling point.
The exception is leased solar systems or power purchase agreements (PPAs) with unfavourable transfer terms. A lease that requires the new owner to assume payments or pay a termination fee can complicate a sale. Owned systems with transferable warranties are the cleanest scenario for resale.
What to do: If resale value is a concern, choose an owned system (not leased) with clearly transferable warranties. Keep all documentation organised — warranty certificates, installation permits, electrical schematics, and SP Group approval letters. These become valuable handover documents during a property sale.
How to Be a Myth-Proof Solar Buyer: 5 Steps
Now that you know the myths, here is your practical framework for making a confident, informed solar purchase in Singapore.
Step 1: Get educated before getting quotes. Read comprehensive guides (like this one and our complete solar guide) before speaking to any installer. When you understand the terminology, you can spot exaggerations and ask the right questions.
Step 2: Collect at least three detailed quotes. Ensure each quote includes: panel brand and model with specifications, inverter brand and model with warranty duration, itemised cost breakdown, P50 and P90 energy yield projections, degradation-adjusted 25-year production forecast, workmanship warranty duration (separate from DLP), and post-installation monitoring and maintenance terms.
Step 3: Compare total cost of ownership, not sticker price. Build a simple spreadsheet or ask each installer to provide: total cost, projected 25-year energy production (with degradation), projected 25-year savings (with electricity tariff assumptions), net savings after system cost. The system with the highest net lifetime savings is typically the best investment, even if it costs more upfront.
Step 4: Verify credentials and track record. Confirm the installer is registered with SP Group under the Enhanced Central Intermediary Scheme. Verify they use Licensed Electrical Workers (LEWs) registered with the Energy Market Authority. Ask for references from completed installations in your area and property type. Check their business registration age and financial stability.
Step 5: Read the contract, especially the fine print. Pay particular attention to: DLP duration and scope, workmanship warranty duration and exclusions, payment schedule and milestone definitions, system performance guarantees (if any), dispute resolution mechanism, and what happens if the installer ceases operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do solar panels work during a power outage in Singapore?
Standard grid-tied solar systems shut down during a power outage for safety reasons (to protect utility workers). This is called anti-islanding protection and is required by SP Group regulations. To maintain power during outages, you need a solar system with battery storage and a hybrid inverter capable of islanding mode. Read our battery storage guide for details.
How long do solar panels actually last in Singapore?
Quality solar panels are designed to last 30–35 years or more. The 25-year warranty period is a guaranteed performance floor, not an expiry date. After 25 years, panels will still produce electricity — just at a reduced output (typically 84–90% of original capacity). The inverter is the component most likely to need replacement, usually after 10–15 years.
What is the real payback period for solar in Singapore?
For landed homes, the typical payback period is 4–7 years depending on system size, electricity consumption, and roof orientation. Homes with higher daytime consumption achieve faster payback because more solar energy is self-consumed at the full retail rate rather than exported at the lower wholesale rate. See our Is Solar Worth It analysis for detailed calculations.
Can I install solar panels on my HDB flat?
Individual HDB flat owners cannot install private solar panels on their units. However, HDB has its own SolarNova programme that installs solar on HDB rooftops and common areas, with the generated electricity used to power common services. Some HDB towns also benefit from community solar initiatives. Read our HDB solar guide for the full picture.
Is the Defects Liability Period the same as a warranty?
No. The DLP is a short-term contractual obligation (typically 12–24 months) for the installer to fix workmanship defects. It is not a warranty in the consumer sense. Manufacturer warranties on panels and inverters are separate, longer-duration commitments from the equipment manufacturers. A good installer will also offer an explicit workmanship warranty that extends beyond the DLP.
What does P50 mean on my solar proposal?
P50 is a statistical term meaning there is a 50% probability that your system will produce at least that amount of energy in any given year. It is the median estimate, not a guarantee. In good weather years, your system may exceed P50. In poor weather years, it may fall short. For conservative financial planning, ask your installer for the P90 figure as well.
Do I need to clean my solar panels in Singapore?
Singapore's regular rainfall handles most cleaning naturally. However, if your panels are installed on a low-tilt roof or near trees that drop leaves and sap, periodic manual cleaning (every 6–12 months) can help maintain optimal output. Never use abrasive materials or high-pressure water jets on solar panels. Most installers offer affordable annual cleaning and inspection packages.
Will solar panels void my roof warranty?
A properly installed solar system should not void your roof warranty. Reputable installers use non-penetrative mounting methods where possible, and when roof penetrations are necessary, they are sealed with industry-standard flashing and waterproofing. However, it is wise to inform your roofing contractor before installation and confirm that the solar mounting method is compatible with your roofing material and warranty terms.
What happens to my solar system if I sell my home?
Owned solar systems transfer with the property and can be a selling point. Ensure all warranties are transferable — most manufacturer warranties are. The installer's workmanship warranty may or may not transfer, so check the terms. Provide the buyer with complete system documentation including permits, schematics, warranty certificates, and monitoring app access.
How do I know if my solar system is underperforming?
Monitor your system through the inverter's app or monitoring portal. Compare monthly production to the expected yield in your proposal (adjusting for seasonal variation). A consistent shortfall of more than 15–20% below expected output warrants investigation. Common causes include shading from new construction or vegetation growth, inverter issues, soiled panels, or a faulty panel. Your installer's monitoring service should flag these issues proactively.
The Bottom Line: Knowledge Is Your Best Protection
The solar industry in Singapore is growing rapidly, and the vast majority of installers are professional and trustworthy. But myths persist because they serve someone's interest — whether it is a salesperson who benefits from oversized systems, a budget installer who competes on price alone, or simply outdated information that has not caught up with 2026 reality.
Your best defence is education. By understanding what the Defects Liability Period actually covers, what panel degradation really looks like, how P50 and P90 estimates work, and where the real value differences between quotes lie, you move from being a passive buyer to an informed decision-maker.
At Sunollo, we built our business on transparency. Our Savings Guarantee exists because we believe homeowners deserve certainty, not just statistics. We publish our methodology, explain our calculations, and stand behind our numbers with real financial commitment.
If you are ready to have an honest conversation about solar for your home — free from myths, fine print, and inflated promises — get in touch with our team. We would rather help you make the right decision than make a quick sale.
