Background of the SolarNova Programme
Launched in 2014, SolarNova is a joint effort between the Housing and Development Board (HDB) and the Economic Development Board (EDB). The programme aggregates demand for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across government-owned buildings and HDB rooftops into consolidated tenders, achieving economies of scale that reduce per-unit installation costs.
Over 80% of Singapore's 1.4 million resident households live in HDB flats. The programme addresses the structural challenge that individual HDB flat owners do not have direct control over their block's rooftop — instead, HDB procures solar installations centrally and leases rooftop space to appointed contractors.
Tender Phases and Capacity
SolarNova has been rolled out in multiple phases:
| Phase | Year | Capacity (MWp) | Contractor |
|---|---|---|---|
| SolarNova 1 | 2015 | 20 | Sunseap Group |
| SolarNova 2 | 2016 | 50 | Sunseap Group |
| SolarNova 3 | 2017 | 60 | Sembcorp Solar |
| SolarNova 4 | 2018 | 60 | Sunseap Group |
| SolarNova 5 | 2020 | 42 | Sembcorp Solar |
| SolarNova 6 | 2021 | 55 | Sunseap Group |
| SolarNova 7 | 2022 | 38 | Sembcorp Solar |
| SolarNova 8 | 2024 | 130 | Sunseap Leasing (EDP Renewables) |
Total committed capacity as of February 2024 stands at 455 MWp, approximately 85% of the 540 MWp target for 2030. SolarNova 8 alone covers approximately 1,075 HDB blocks and 101 government sites.
How Solar Energy Is Used in HDB Blocks
Solar panels on HDB rooftops generate electricity that first powers common area services during daylight hours. These include:
- Lifts and escalators in multi-storey car parks
- Corridor and stairwell lighting
- Water pumps for upper-floor supply
- Common area ventilation systems
Excess electricity beyond common area demand is channelled to the national grid via SP Group. Most HDB blocks with solar installations achieve net-zero energy consumption for common areas during sunny days, according to HDB's published data.
SolarNova 8: Regeneration Pilot
The SolarNova 8 tender introduced a regeneration pilot programme — the first of its kind in Singapore's public housing sector. Key details:
- Target: Extend panel operational lifespan by 4–5 years beyond the standard 25-year warranty
- Method: In-situ treatment of existing panels to recover up to 5% efficiency loss caused by light-induced degradation (LID) and potential-induced degradation (PID)
- Expected completion: Q3 2026
- Significance: Reduces panel replacement waste and defers capital expenditure for HDB
Eligibility and Scope
Not all HDB blocks are eligible for solar installation. Selection criteria include:
- Roof orientation and shading analysis (south-facing rooftops preferred)
- Structural integrity assessment for additional load (panels typically add 15–20 kg/m²)
- Minimum unobstructed roof area of 200 m²
- Blocks undergoing upgrading programmes may have installations integrated into renovation works
Older HDB blocks with water tanks occupying rooftop space may require tank relocation before installation. HDB coordinates these works during block-level upgrading cycles.
Financial Structure
HDB residents do not pay for the solar installation on their block. The financial model works as follows:
- HDB leases rooftop space to the appointed solar contractor for the contract duration (typically 20–25 years)
- The contractor bears all installation, maintenance, and insurance costs
- HDB purchases the generated electricity at a contracted rate below the prevailing SP Group tariff
- Savings from reduced electricity costs contribute to lower service and conservancy charges (S&CC) over time