Solar sales agents promise the moon, but is it really a guaranteed investment? Let's look at the brutal facts of owning a solar system in Malaysia.
The Pros
- Verified Savings: For bills >RM300, savings are mathematically guaranteed unless policy changes drastically.
- Property Value: Homes with solar sell 4-6% faster in the Klang Valley market.
- Hedge Against Inflation: Electricity tariffs rise every few years (ICPT). Solar locks in your rate.
The Cons (and How to Mitigate)
1. Roof Leaks
Risk: Poor drilling causes leaks. Solution: Use non-penetrative mounting (Klplok) for metal roofs, or ensure proper flashing for tiles. Choose an installer with a "Roof Leak Warranty".
2. Maintenance
Risk: Dust reduces output by 15%. Solution: Requires cleaning every 6 months (Cost: ~RM 250). Factor this into your ROI.
3. Inverter Failure
Risk: Inverters are the weak link, lasting 10-12 years. Solution: Budget RM 4,000 for a replacement around Year 10, or get an extended warranty.
Verdict
For landed properties with bills over RM 350, the math works overwhelmingly in favor. For bills under RM 200, the ROI stretches to >9 years, making it less attractive financially.