You won't believe how many HDB blocks boast of solar panels

Punggol alone already has 40 blocks.

According to an oral answer by Ministry of National Development on installing solar photovoltaic panels in HDB estates, about 100 HDB blocks have been installed with solar PV systems under HDB’s Solar Capability Building Programme.

Here's more from MND:

Mr Yee Jenn Jong raised the query on solar PV systems in HDBs.

The 100 blocks with solar PV systems are scattered in different geographical areas to enable HDB to study the impact of the microclimate on the performance of the solar panels. The solar power generated is used to power the lighting at the common areas, water pumps and lift operations.

Initially, the implementation of the solar PV systems was fully funded by the Government. In order to stretch the available budget to benefit more estates, HDB adopted a solar leasing model last year, which taps on private enterprises to carry out the design, financing, installation and maintenance of solar panels in HDB buildings.

HDB funds a small percentage of the initial start-up costs, and the remainder is funded by the contractor. The contractor recoups its investment from selling the generated solar electricity to the Town Councils (TCs). Under this model, the TCs will enjoy monthly savings of up to 5% off the prevailing electricity tariff rate.

To-date, HDB has installed solar PV systems at 40 blocks in Punggol through the solar leasing model. The payback period for the latest phase of the solar leasing model is 19 years.

The savings derived from the installation of solar PV systems will help TCs to mitigate rising operating and estates management costs. Residents will in turn benefit, as this helps to keep the cost of maintaining the common areas low.