Government Incentives for Solar in Singapore
Singapore offers several incentives to encourage solar adoption, making it more affordable than ever to switch to clean energy.
Grid Integration Program (GIP)
The Energy Market Authority's GIP allows solar system owners to sell excess electricity back to the grid at S$0.20 per kWh. This ensures none of your generated power goes to waste.
Green Mark Incentive Scheme
Buildings achieving Green Mark certification can receive cash incentives up to S$3 million for larger developments. Solar installations contribute significantly to Green Mark scores.
Tax Benefits
Businesses can claim capital allowances on solar equipment, reducing taxable income. The Investment Allowance scheme offers additional tax relief for green investments.
Financing Options
- Green loans: Banks offer preferential rates for solar installations
- Leasing programs: Zero upfront cost options available
- PACE financing: Property-assessed clean energy programs
EMA Regulations and Requirements
The Energy Market Authority (EMA) oversees solar installations in Singapore. Systems below 1 MWAC are considered "embedded generators" and benefit from simplified registration. Key requirements include:
- Installation by a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW)
- Compliance with SS 638:2018 (Code of Practice for Electrical Installations)
- Grid connection approval from SP Group
- Proper labeling and safety disconnect switches
Argyle Solar handles all EMA paperwork, ensuring your installation meets every regulatory requirement without you lifting a finger.
HDB and BCA Guidelines
For HDB properties, the Housing & Development Board manages solar through the SolarNova program rather than individual installations. However, for commercial and industrial buildings, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) offers significant incentives through the Green Mark scheme:
- Green Mark GoldPlus and Platinum certifications command premium rents
- Solar installations contribute up to 15 points toward Green Mark scoring
- Existing buildings can apply for BCA's Green Mark Incentive Scheme for Existing Buildings (GMIS-EB) with grants up to S$3 million
NEA Environmental Considerations
The National Environment Agency encourages solar adoption as part of Singapore's Green Plan 2030. Solar installations help buildings reduce their carbon footprint and meet NEA's energy efficiency requirements. Large energy consumers (using >54GJ/month) must conduct energy audits every 3 years under the Energy Conservation Act — solar installations directly contribute to meeting these efficiency targets.
Financing for Different Property Types
HDB Residents: While direct installation isn't possible, HDB's SolarNova program reduces service charges. Some residents participate in community solar programs through third-party energy retailers.
Condo Owners: MCST sinking funds can be used for solar installations that benefit common areas. Several condos in Districts 9, 10, and 15 have successfully used this approach, with payback periods of 4-6 years from maintenance fee savings.
Landed Homeowners: Full range of financing options available including green loans from DBS (2.88% p.a.), OCBC Eco-Care Loan, and UOB green renovation loans. Some homeowners use CPF Ordinary Account funds for solar installations, subject to BCA approval as an energy efficiency improvement.
Updated Incentive Timeline
Most incentive applications are processed within 4-6 weeks. The GIP application runs concurrently with SP Group's grid connection approval, which typically takes 2-3 weeks for residential systems. Argyle Solar submits all paperwork simultaneously to minimize delays.
How to Apply
Argyle Solar handles all incentive applications as part of our installation service. We'll ensure you receive every benefit you're entitled to.
SolarNova Programme Details
The government's SolarNova programme, led by the Housing & Development Board and Economic Development Board, aggregates demand for solar energy across government agencies. This bulk procurement approach reduces costs and accelerates deployment. By 2030, Singapore aims to achieve at least 2 gigawatt-peak of solar capacity, enough to power approximately 350,000 households annually.
Net Energy Metering Scheme
SP Group's Net Energy Metering scheme allows consumers to offset their electricity bills with solar generation. Any excess energy is exported to the grid and credited at the prevailing electricity rate. This scheme is available to consumers with solar systems up to 1 MW capacity, covering virtually all residential and most commercial installations.
Green Building Incentives
The Building and Construction Authority's Green Mark scheme awards points for renewable energy adoption. Buildings achieving Green Mark Platinum or Gold ratings can receive cash incentives of up to S$3 million for large developments. Solar installations contribute significantly to these scores, making them valuable beyond direct energy savings.
Tax Benefits for Commercial Installations
Businesses can claim capital allowances on solar equipment under Section 19 of the Income Tax Act. The Investment Allowance scheme offers additional tax relief of up to 50% on qualifying green technology investments. For businesses with significant tax liabilities, this can reduce the effective payback period to 3-4 years.