Solar energy continues to rise as a preferred source of renewable energy, hence, safety in solar photovoltaic (PV) installations is becoming a critical concern. Particularly, fire hazards associated with rooftop PV systems have prompted the need for enhanced safety measures. Two key technologies are now leading the way in making solar installations safer: rapid shutdown mechanisms and microinverters.

Why Rapid Shutdown Matters

One of the most significant risks in solar PV installations is the presence of DC high-voltage, which remains live even when the system is turned off. In emergency situations, such as a fire, this can pose a severe danger to first responders. Rapid shutdown mechanisms are designed to mitigate these risk by allowing the system to be de-energised quickly. This ensures that no high-voltage electricity is running through the panels or wiring, reducing the risk of electric shock and allowing firefighters to handle the situation safely.

The guidelines from Jabatan Bomba Dan Penyelamat Malaysia (Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia/Bomba) underscore the importance of rapid shutdown in preventing fires and facilitating safe emergency responses during rooftop PV system installations​.

Microinverters: The Safer Inverter Choice

Microinverters are emerging as the new standard in solar PV safety. Unlike traditional string inverters, which handle multiple solar panels at once, microinverters are installed on each panel. This not only improves the performance of the system but also enhances safety by limiting the impact of faults to individual panels.

(Above) Solaroo’s microinverter setup, only the affected solar panel’s output is affected when there is shading as compared to the string inverter, the production of the entire PV system is determined by the performance of the panel with the lowest output

In case of a fire or malfunction, microinverters isolate the affected panel, preventing the spread of electrical faults across the system. Moreover, microinverters facilitate rapid shutdown at the panel level, making it easier to deactivate the system and ensure that first responders are not exposed to dangerous DC voltage​.

Read more about our microinverter PV system here.

Addressing Fire Hazards in Solar Installations

Despite the reliability of solar PV systems, fire risks do exist, particularly due to the risk of DC arcing and overheating. These issues can arise from poor installation, faulty components, or wear and tear over time. The guidelines emphasize the importance of certified materials and qualified installers to prevent such incidents and ensure the longevity and safety of the system.

(Above) The ideal roof covering and insulation layer with minimal fire risk

Enhancing Solar Safety

As the demand for solar energy grows, safety features like rapid shutdown and microinverters are becoming essential. These technologies not only protect homes and businesses but also safeguard the people who maintain and respond to emergencies involving solar systems.

Incorporating these advancements will elevate the safety standards of solar PV systems and provide peace of mind for both system owners and emergency responders. Solar installations, when equipped with the latest safety measures, offer not just environmental benefits but also enhanced operational safety.

(Above) Illustration showing setbacks for three common types of roofs with coverage of more than 33%, A minimum setback of 1 meter must be provided on both sides of the horizontal ridge.

With this in mind, solar adopters in Malaysia and worldwide should prioritize these features when designing and installing their PV systems to ensure a safer, more resilient energy future.

For the full Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (Bomba) guidelines, kindly refer here.

The post Fire Safety Guide for Rooftop Solar PV Systems by Bomba appeared first on Solaroo | Your #1 Partner For Cleaner Energy, Solar PV Provider Malaysia.

Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Cloudy or Rainy Climates

Fact: Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy or rainy days, which are common in Malaysia. Designed to capture a wide range of light wavelengths, solar panels actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures, making them suitable for Malaysia’s tropical climate with varying weather.

Myth 2: Solar Energy is Too Expensive

Fact: The cost of solar energy has decreased significantly in Malaysia, thanks to technological advancements and government incentives. Malaysia offers various tax incentives, rebates, and financing options to make solar PV systems more affordable for both residential and commercial users.

Myth 3: Solar Panels Require a Lot of Maintenance

Fact: Solar panels in Malaysia require minimal maintenance. Our tropical weather conditions, such as heavy rain and high humidity helps remove any dust and debris which is sufficient to keep them operating efficiently.

Myth 4: Solar Panels Damage Your Roof

Fact: When properly installed, solar PV systems do not damage your roof. In Malaysia, certified installers such as Pekat and Solaroo, follow strict guidelines to ensure the panels are securely mounted without compromising the roof’s integrity. In fact, they can provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.

Myth 5: Solar Panels are Unattractive and Decrease Property Value

Fact: Solar PV systems are a valuable addition to Malaysian properties Studies show homes using solar energy often have higher property values and can sell faster than those without.

Myth 6: Solar Panels Don’t Last Long

Fact: Solar panels are built to last, with most manufacturers offering warranties of 25 years or more. In Malaysia’s climate, they are designed to endure tropical weather conditions and continue producing electricity efficiently for many years.

Myth 7: Solar Energy Can’t Power My Entire Home

Fact: Solar PV systems can be customised to meet your energy needs. With the right PV system design and sufficient solar panel capacity, it is possible to generate enough electricity to power an entire home, including all appliances and air conditioning.

Myth 8: Solar PV system cost are based on the size of your home.

Fact: Solar PV systems are designed to fit the specific needs of each homeowner. When determining the cost of installing a solar PV system, special attention is paid to the orientation and slope of your home’s roof. In addition, the surrounding area of the roof is considered when building to make sure it is positioned in an area that has easy access to sunlight and is not obstructed by surrounding trees or buildings.

By debunking these common myths about solar energy, we aim to help more Malaysian homeowners see its potential. Solar power reduces carbon footprints, offers long-term savings, and provides energy independence. As technology advances and costs drop, the future of solar energy in Malaysia is brighter than ever. Let’s harness the sun’s power for a cleaner, greener future.

The post Solar Energy Myths vs. Facts appeared first on Solaroo | Your #1 Partner For Cleaner Energy, Solar PV Provider Malaysia.

All you need to know about SolaRIS

Who is eligible for SolaRIS?

Customers qualify for the rebate under the following conditions:

1. They must be TNB Residential Customers (Tariff A), excluding businesses.
2. They must be first-time NEM Rakyat applicants from April 1, 2024.
3. They must be Malaysian citizens.

Please note that each customer is eligible for only one rebate.

How much will I get for the SolaRIS rebate?

The rebate amount will be determined by your Declared Installed Capacity (kWac), which can be verified in your NEM Rakyat Certificate. Each kilowatt-hour (kWac) is equal to RM1,000, with a maximum cap of RM4,000.

For example:

Solar PV Declared Installed Capacity = 2.45kWac

Cash Rebate = 2.45kWac * RM1,000 = RM2,450

If your Solar PV Declared Installed Capacity is 5.00kWac, your cash rebate is at the maximum cap of RM4,000 only.

How to apply for the SolaRIS rebate?

At Solaroo, we handle the application process on your behalf.

When can I expect to receive the rebate payment?
The rebate payment will be disbursed after the successful installation and commissioning of the solar PV system under the NEM Rakyat Program. It will be credited to the TNB customer’s local bank account, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the SolaRIS program.

I received approval for my NEM Rakyat application before April 1, 2024. Will I qualify for the rebate?
No, eligibility for the rebate is limited to applicants who applied and received approval on or after April 1, 2024. You can verify the submission and approval dates on your NEM Rakyat certificate issued by SEDA.

If I applied for NEM Rakyat before April 1st, 2024, and received the NEM Rakyat certificate after that date, am I eligible for the rebate?

No, only applications and approvals from April 1st, 2024 onwards are eligible. Please check the submission and approval dates on your NEM Rakyat certificate issued by SEDA.

I have multiple houses with solar PV installations, and I applied under NEM Rakyat after April 1st, 2024. Can I apply for the rebate for all of them?

No, you can only claim one rebate for the house that was first commissioned with TNB after April 1st, 2024.

I bought a house with an existing solar PV installation under NEM Rakyat from the previous owner. Can I apply for the rebate?

No, you are not eligible if the previous owner already received the rebate or commissioned the installation before April 1st, 2024.

I added more solar PV capacity after April 1st, 2024. Can I get the SolaRIS rebate?

No, existing NEM customers who expand their installation are not eligible for the rebate.

I withdrew from the previous NEM Rakyat quota and haven’t installed the solar PV yet. Can I get the rebate if I get new approval after April 1st, 2024?

No, only first-time NEM Rakyat applicants qualify for the rebate.

I surrendered my NEM Rakyat quota after commissioning the solar PV. Can I get the rebate with new approval after April 1st, 2024?

No, only first-time NEM Rakyat applicants are eligible for the rebate.

When is the deadline to apply for SolaRIS?

The rebate is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis from April 1st to December 31st, 2024. Solar PV systems must be commissioned with TNB by March 31st, 2025, or until all NEM Rakyat quotas are filled, whichever comes first.

Find out more about Solaroo’s microinverter PV system here.

The post Solar For Rakyat Incentive Scheme (SOLARIS) appeared first on Solaroo | Your #1 Partner For Cleaner Energy, Solar PV Provider Malaysia.