Solar energy has been around for ages, only recently becoming a power option for homeowners navigating skyrocketing energy bills and who wish to reduce their carbon footprint at the same time. With the increasing focus on sustainability and reducing harmful emissions, you can break free from traditional energy sources and take control of your energy needs with solar power, the perfect solution that’s easy on the planet and your wallet.
Learn More: How To Maintain Your Home Solar Panels
From powering your appliances to heating your water, let’s explore the different ways the power of the sun can be harnessed to transform your home into an energy-efficient oasis.
1. Provide Electricity
Installing solar panels on your roof to power your home with electricity is one of the most common ways to use solar power. These panels use photovoltaic cells to capture the energy of the sun’s rays and convert it into usable electricity, making it an excellent investment for your home.
You also have the option to receive credit for any surplus electricity you generate and return to the grid through a billing mechanism referred to as net metering. Even though Singapore does not offer full net metering, you can still sell any surplus power you generate back to the grid by registering with SP Services or with the Energy Market Company (EMC).
If you are currently buying electricity from SP Services, you are considered a non-contestable consumer and can use the Simplified Credit Treatment (SCT) Scheme. On the other hand, if you are getting electricity from another provider, you are a contestable consumer and can opt for the Enhanced Central Intermediary Scheme (ECIS) or register as a Market Participant (MP) with EMC.
Simplified Credit Treatment (SCT) Scheme
Under SCT, you will receive payment for any excess energy generated by your solar panels at the prevalent tariff rates, minus grid charges. This implies that SPS will compensate you 75-80% of the electricity price for the energy you’ve produced by offering rebates on your monthly electricity bill.
Enhanced Central Intermediary Scheme (ECIS)
Under ECIS, any extra energy generated by your solar panels will be remunerated to you at the prevalent half-hourly wholesale energy prices. Do take note that wholesale electricity prices can fluctuate depending on the demand and supply situation.
2. Electric Vehicle Charging
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular with the benefits they bring. However, the need for convenient and reliable charging solutions has become more pressing than ever. With solar panels for home installed, you can generate your own electricity and use it to charge your electric vehicle.
Avoiding the uncertainty and price fluctuations that come with relying on traditional energy sources is also made possible as you have better stability and flexibility in your energy production.
3. Heating Water
Did you know that you can use solar power to heat the water in your home? It’s true! Solar water heating systems use the sun’s energy to heat water in your house, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources, and making it a more efficient alternative in the long run.
The way it works is simple: a solar water heating system consists of solar collectors and a storage tank. The collectors are typically mounted on your roof and use the sun’s energy to heat a fluid, which is then transferred to the storage tank. The hot water in the storage tank is then used for your daily needs, such as showers, laundry, and dishes.
4. Garden Lighting
Looking for an eco-friendly and affordable way to light up your garden at night? Then solar power might just be the perfect solution. With solar-powered garden lighting, you can enjoy the beauty of your outdoor space without worrying about electricity bills or the hassle of wiring. These lights come in a variety of styles and sizes, from string lights to spotlights, and are powered by solar panels that convert sunlight into energy during the day.
Once the sun sets, the lights automatically turn on, using the stored energy to illuminate your beautiful garden. Not only is solar-powered lighting good for the environment, but it can also add a magical touch to your outdoor space, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere for relaxing or entertaining.
From powering your home to charging your electric vehicle, solar power is a reliable and sustainable energy source that can help you achieve your energy goals while contributing to a more sustainable future. As an investment that pays off in both the short and long term, converting to solar energy may just be the right choice for you.
If you are looking to install solar panels for your home, do check out Union Solar. As one of the trusted solar companies in Singapore, we stay committed to providing you with less but more cost-efficient electrical power for your house with sustainable energy Contact us today to know more.