How Solar Energy Works in Singapore: A Complete Guide

Introduction: Why Solar Power Is the Future

Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that converts sunlight into electricity helping Singaporean households and businesses save on rising utility bills while reducing their carbon footprint.

With growing concerns over climate change and escalating electricity costs, solar energy has rapidly gained popularity across Singapore. But how exactly does it work?

In this article, FOMO Energy breaks down how solar panels turn sunlight into usable electricity and how you can benefit from this sustainable energy source today.

🔹 What Is Solar Power?

Solar power refers to the process of capturing energy from the sun and converting it into electricity or heat.

The most common method in Singapore is via photovoltaic (PV) systems, typically mounted on rooftops. These solar panels allow homes, offices, and industrial buildings to generate their own electricity sustainably.

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🔹 How Do Solar Panels Work? Step-by-Step Process

1.Sunlight Hits the Solar Panels

Solar panels, made from silicon-based photovoltaic (PV) cells, absorb sunlight (photons) when it hits the panels.

These panels are usually installed on rooftops for optimal sun exposure in Singapore’s tropical climate.

2.Photons Knock Electrons Loose Creating Direct Current (DC)

The PV cells react to sunlight by knocking electrons loose, producing direct current (DC) electricity.

However, DC electricity cannot be used directly by your home appliances, which is where the inverter comes in.

3.Inverter Converts DC to Alternating Current (AC)

The inverter is the heart of the solar system. It transforms DC electricity into alternating current (AC) the form of electricity used in all Singaporean homes.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Choose a high-efficiency inverter to maximize your solar system’s output. Learn more about installation here →

4.Electricity Powers Your Home or Business

Once converted to AC, electricity flows into your distribution board, powering appliances such as:

  • Lighting systems
  • Ceiling fans and air conditioners
  • Refrigerators and washing machines
  • TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances

This makes your property more energy-independent, reducing your electricity bills significantly.

5.Excess Electricity Can Be Exported to the Grid

If your system produces more energy than you consume, the surplus electricity can be exported back to the Singapore grid through solar sellback schemes.

✅ You may earn rebates or credits from your retailer through net metering, helping offset your future bills.

📈 Bonus: Your solar panel system can become a passive income generator, not just a cost-saver.

🔹 Main Components of a Solar Energy System

To understand the full system, here are the key components of a typical setup:

  • Solar Panels – Capture sunlight and convert it to electricity.
  • Inverter – Converts DC to usable AC electricity.
  • Electrical Panel (DB box) – Distributes electricity throughout your home.
  • Monitoring System (e.g., FusionSolar) – Tracks energy production and performance in real time.
  • Battery Storage (optional) – Stores excess energy for night-time use.
    ⚠️ Note: In Singapore, batteries are not cost-effective for most households. Read why →

🔹 What Happens at Night or During Cloudy Weather?

Solar panels only work when the sun shines. Here’s what happens otherwise:

  • Night-time – No solar production. Your home draws electricity from the grid.
  • Cloudy days – Reduced output (but not zero).
  • Solutions:
    • Draw energy from the grid
    • Use solar sellback credits to offset costs
    • Consider battery backup for critical loads (rarely needed in Singapore)

🔎 Learn more about solar rebates and subsidies in Singapore here:
       https://fomo.energy/solar-panel-subsidies-in-singapore/

 

🔹 Types of Solar Panels: Which Should You Choose?

Not all solar panels are created equal. Here are the common types used in Singapore:

Type

Efficiency

Appearance

Recommended?

Monocrystalline

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sleek black

✅ Yes Best performance

Polycrystalline

⭐⭐

Bluish tint

❌ Not recommended

Thin-film

Lightweight, flexible

❌ Niche applications only

For homeowners and businesses in Singapore, monocrystalline panels are the best balance of performance and aesthetics.

🔹 Is Solar Right for You?

Before switching to solar, consider these factors:

  • Roof space and orientation
  • Current electricity usage
  • Your monthly electricity bill
  • Eligibility for solar sellback schemes

💡 The best way to determine your potential savings is to speak with a professional EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) company like FOMO Energy.

We’ve helped over 250 homeowners and businesses across Singapore go solar—installing a total of 4.5 Megawatt-Peak (MWp) worth of clean energy systems.

📞 Ready to Go Solar? Contact Us for a Free Quote

Explore your energy savings with zero upfront cost.
📍 FOMO Energy provides:

  • Expert consultation
  • Customised solar designs
  • Full installation & maintenance
  • REConnect program for added value (warranty + smart monitoring)

🎥 Want to see how the installation works? Watch this short video

Further Reading: Learn More About Solar Energy in Singapore

Continue exploring helpful resources:

The advantages of Photovoltaics

Immediately reduce consumption in your bill, you can access tax deductions and resell unused energy, start saving now !

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Panel Installation

Exposure & inclination calc

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Car Charging Battery

Fast and efficient charging

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Disposal Included

100% recycled materials

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Solar Energy Ready

Different dimensions of the panels

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Free Consultation

Always a technician by your side

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Charging Battery

Included in the service

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