Deciding to switch to solar energy via a Solar Power Plant (PLTS) system is a long-term investment proven to significantly reduce electricity bills and costs. However, beyond selecting the right type of system, there is a technical factor often overlooked: when is the best time to install it? Is it during wet or dry season? How about business/commercial side?
Choosing the right moment for installation affects not only the smoothness of the on-site process but also cost efficiency and the speed of your Return on Investment (ROI). Therefore, the timing of the installation requires careful planning.
Dry Season vs. Rainy Season: Which is Ideal?
In tropical countries like Indonesia, weather plays a pivotal role in construction work and rooftop electrical installations.
Installation During the Dry Season
Technically, the dry season is the most ideal time for the physical construction of a solar power system. Here is the reason:
1. Optimal Workplace Safety
The risk of workplace accidents caused by slippery roofs during installation can be minimized.
2. Prevention of Roof Leaks
Installing the mounting system often requires dismantling parts of the roof or drilling into it.
Installation during the dry season ensures that waterproofing sealants cure completely before being exposed to heavy rain.
3. Maximum Efficiency from Day One
A system activated during the dry season will immediately generate peak kWh output.
What About Installation During the Rainy Season?
Although rooftop work requires extra caution and schedule flexibility when it rains, installing a solar power system during the rainy season also offers distinct advantages:
a. Immediate Durability and Leakage Test
An installation completed during the rainy season allows the waterproofing to be immediately tested against heavy downpours.
b. Promotional Opportunities & Price Discounts
Solar PV service providers (EPC installers) often offer special discounts or cashback promotions during the first or final quarters of the year to stimulate demand.
Optimal Timing Based on Financial & Operational Factors
Beyond climatic conditions, the best time to install a solar PV system is also heavily influenced by financial considerations and your building's operational needs:
a. When Electricity Bills Rise (Tariff Adjustments)
When PLN (the state electricity company) implements tariff adjustments, operating costs for both households and businesses increase significantly.
Installing a solar PV system at this time yields more immediate savings and accelerates the payback period.
b. During Roof Renovation or New Construction Planning
If you are planning to build a new home or facility, or are undertaking a complete roof renovation, this is an ideal time to install a solar PV system.
1. Cost-Efficient Roof Warranty Management
Cable routing and roof structural strength can be designed and adjusted from the outset, eliminating the need to dismantle or alter a finished structure later.
2. Labor Cost Savings
Scaffolding and labor requirements can be integrated with the main construction project, reducing overall costs.
Before the Business Peak Season (B2B/Commercial Sector)
For industrial, factories, hotels, and public facilities, the optimal time for solar PV system commissioning is 1–2 months prior to peak seasons or periods of high occupancy.
This ensures the energy system is stable by the time operational electricity consumption surges. Consequently, businesses should aim to install the system 1–2 months before their peak season—for example, during October or November, ahead of the year-end holiday rush for the hotel industry.
Estimated Timeline: From Research/Survey to Solar Power Activation
To plan the installation schedule effectively, consider the estimated duration of the process from start to finish:
1. Site Survey & Feasibility Study (Approx. 1 Week)
The technical team conducts a shading analysis, measures roof tilt angles, and checks the main circuit breaker (MCB) capacity.
2. System Design & Component Procurement (Duration: 1–2 Weeks)
Preparation of technical drawings, selection of panel and inverter specifications, and delivery of components to the project site.
3. Physical & Electrical Installation (Duration: 2–5 Days)
Installation of mounting structures, solar modules, inverters, grounding systems, and wiring. Duration depends on the system capacity (kWp).
4. Testing, Commissioning, & Permitting (Duration: 1–3 Weeks)
Testing electrical reliability, synchronization with the grid (PLN), and processing permits or the Certificate of Operational Worthiness (SLO).
Conclusion
In summary, the best time to install a solar power system (PLTS) is during the early to mid-dry season, or when you are planning roof construction or renovations.
This approach ensures rapid construction, minimizes the risk of leaks, and allows the system to maximize solar energy harvesting from the very first day of operation.
For businesses, meanwhile, installation can be scheduled 1–2 months prior to the anticipated peak season.
Batari Energy provides solar power system (PLTS) installation services across Indonesia for residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, including on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems. Interested in installing a solar power system? Click this link!