Installing rooftop solar power systems (PLTS) on single-story homes is becoming increasingly popular due to rising electricity tariffs and growing awareness of green energy. At first glance, a single-story home seems ideal: the roof is easily accessible, and the installation process is relatively straightforward.
How does single story homes affect the solar PV installation?
Why Do Single-Story Homes Have Unique Characteristics for Solar PV Installation?
Unlike towering two- or three-story homes, single-story homes have a lower profile relative to their surroundings. This presents both advantages and specific challenges:
1. Accessibility Advantage = Lower Maintenance Costs
Installation and maintenance costs are significantly lower because high scaffolding is not required for periodic cleaning.
2. Shading Hazards
Due to their low profile, the roofs of single-story homes are highly susceptible to shading from taller neighboring houses, dense trees, or utility poles.
Potential Causes of Reduced Electricity Production in Single-Story Solar Systems (If Overlooked)
Most articles simply advise you to keep the panels clean. However, for single-story homes, there are three key variables that often reduce electricity production if not considered from the start:
1. Impact of Micro-Shading from Surrounding Buildings
If even 10% of a single solar panel is shaded, the performance of the entire string can drop by 30–50%. The solution: if your single-story home is surrounded by tall buildings, consider using microinverters or optimizers instead of standard string inverters.
With microinverters, a shaded panel will not compromise the electricity production of other panels exposed to full sunlight.
2. Horizontal Cable Distance & Voltage Drop
Single-story homes generally expand laterally (horizontal layout). If the solar panels are located at the rear edge of the roof while the inverter and distribution box (DB) are positioned at the front near the garage, the DC cable run becomes excessively long.
Excessively long DC cables lead to voltage drop.
The solution is to place the inverter in the central area of the building or as close as possible to the solar panels to keep power loss (cable loss) below 1%.
3. Local Roof Tilt Angle
Single-story homes in Indonesia typically feature hip or gable roof designs with a slope of 15–30 degrees: If the roof slope is too shallow—less than 10 degrees—rainwater cannot naturally wash away dust (the self-cleaning effect).
Dust accumulation on single-story homes is often heavier because the roof is positioned closer to the street. Capacity Estimates & Investment Simulation for Single-Story Homes
The following is an overview of on-grid solar power system requirements for single-story households in Indonesia:
- PLN Grid Capacity: 2200 VA Capacity: 1.8–2.2 kWp; required roof area: 10–12 m²; estimated electricity bill savings: 40–60%
- PLN Grid Capacity: 3500 VA Capacity: 3.3–3.5 kWp; required roof area: 16–18 m²; estimated electricity bill savings: 50–70%
- PLN Grid Capacity: 4400 VA Capacity: 4–4.3 kWp; required roof area: 20–22 m²; estimated electricity bill savings: 50–60% Note: Savings depend on the daily electricity usage profile (whether consumption is higher during the day or at night). ## Practical Steps Before Installing a Solar Power System (PLTS) on a Single-Story Home
1. Conduct a Simple Sun Path Analysis
Observe your roof at 09:00, 12:00, and 15:00. Ensure the area designated for the panels is free from shadows cast by trees or neighboring roofs.
2. Check Roof Structure Strength
Ensure the lightweight steel or wooden roof supports are sturdy. The combined weight of the solar panels and mounting hardware ranges from 12 to 15 kg/m².
3. Choose a Vendor Offering a Performance Warranty
Ensure the solar panels come with a performance warranty of at least 25 years and the inverter with a warranty of at least 5 years.
4. Conduct a Site Survey
A preliminary survey for the solar system is advisable. This ensures the roof is suitable and helps determine the optimal layout to minimize potential shading.
You can perform this analysis yourself using software like PVSyst or Arka 360, but consulting an expert is recommended to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
Installing a solar power system on a single-story home is a sound investment for long-term electricity cost savings. Key advantages include ease of maintenance and ample roof space.
By carefully considering potential shading from the surrounding environment and planning the cable layout, you can maximize electricity generation efficiency and shorten the payback period.
Batari Energy provides solar power system installation services for residential homes across Indonesia, including single-story houses. Our services cover on-grid, hybrid, and off-grid systems.
Interested in installing a solar power system for your home? Click this link for further inquiry.