The Philippines is located near the equator, which means we have a lot of potential to use solar energy. For instance, we can install solar panels on roofs to decrease electricity costs and contribute to the environment, but that rarely happens.
So, why is the adoption of solar technology still very low?
Though it’s easy to think that the culprit for solar power adoption is the high upfront cost of materials and installation, a new study by Dr. Rosalina Palanca-Tan from Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) found other factors besides the price.
The research surveyed 403 respondents and highlighted other issues and challenges related to the low adoption of solar power in households despite its benefits in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
How much does solar panel installation cost in the Philippines?
The Philippines has one of the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia, as high as approximately Php11.50 per kilowatt-hour, particularly if compared to our neighboring countries. The price of electricity alone should be enough to show the potential long-term savings.
Homeowners also recognize the positive effects of installing RTSP for the environment as a long-term investment, but there are other hindrances.
For instance, the upfront cost of installing home rooftop solar power (RTSP) is high, easily exceeding hundreds of thousands of pesos, which makes the one-time expense particularly challenging for most households.
For context, the minimum wage in Metro Manila is Php645, which is not feasible for low-income earners and may not even be enough for middle-income earners.
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What are the other reasons for the low adoption of solar tech?
Despite the high installation cost, the survey found that the price is not the lone factor and does not systematically influence the respondents’ willingness to adopt solar power.
The study included other factors in the adoption of solar technology:
- Quality features, such as brands and specifications of materials.
- Maintenance service provisions, guarantees, and reputation of installers.
- Perceived quality of the installations.
It showed that since the initial investment is high, it’s crucial to find ways to ensure that it won’t go to waste by avoiding buying low-quality solar panels or hiring inefficient contractors.
Government intervention to encourage public
The study also showed that despite 82%, or about four in five surveyed households, expressed some interest in using solar panels, only 20% had first intentions, which is still too low relative to the potential benefits.
That’s why the study suggests stronger government intervention and public education campaigns, including improving net metering rates, financing assistance, and accrediting RTSP providers to improve consumer confidence.
Do you have solar panels at home? Can you please share your experience?