In response to the decreasing cost of solar rooftop installation, Supalai, a developer listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), has announced plans to integrate digital technology in installing 15,000 solar rooftops across its projects nationwide by 2028, in partnership with Huawei.
Tritecha Tangmatitham, the managing director of Supalai, highlighted the notable decline in the cost of solar rooftop installation, which has decreased by 10% annually, now standing at 150,000 baht for three kilowatts of power. He emphasized how, over the past decade, there has been a significant shift in consumer attitude towards solar rooftops. Initially viewed as an optional investment, they have now become an essential feature due to escalating energy costs and the increasingly attractive pricing of installations.
Solar rooftops, once deemed a luxury, have now become a practical choice for homeowners, boasting a break-even point of five years and gaining popularity among consumers. Since mid-2023, Supalai has already installed solar rooftops on approximately 2,000 units across 20 projects in major provinces, primarily on single detached houses where the ample roof area and higher energy consumption justify the investment.
Mr. Tritecha also noted a changing trend in consumer preferences, with younger generations, particularly Generation Z and Y, prioritizing green energy and environmental consciousness. These demographic shifts are expected to significantly influence the housing market in the coming years, with environmentally friendly features becoming increasingly desirable.
Logan Yu, president of the digital power business at Huawei Technologies (Thailand), emphasized the global consensus towards green homes, citing a substantial increase in households worldwide adopting solar rooftops. In Thailand, the growth rate has outpaced the global average, reaching 145% due to cost reductions and technological advancements.
Huawei’s FusionSolar technology, which offers next-generation string inverters with smart management capabilities, is positioned as a leading solution in the market. The company claims a 30% higher energy yield and 10% more energy storage capacity compared to competitors, providing substantial electricity savings for consumers. For instance, a 3-kilowatt installation can yield monthly savings ranging from 2,200 to 2,900 baht, while a 5-kilowatt installation could save 2,400 to 3,200 baht, catering to various household energy needs.
The collaboration between Supalai and Huawei signifies a concerted effort towards sustainable housing solutions, leveraging advancements in solar technology to meet the evolving demands of homeowners and contribute to a greener future.
