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Handbook for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems

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Page 1: Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems · SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew figure 2. grid-connected solar PV system configuration 1.2 Types of Solar PV System Solar

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Handbook for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems

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Contents

1 Solar Photovoltaic (“PV”) Systems – An Overview 4 1.1 Introduction 4 1.2 Types of Solar PV System 5 1.3 Solar PV Technology 6 • CrystallineSiliconandThinFilmTechnologies 8 • ConversionEfficiency 8 • EffectsofTemperature 9 1.4 Technical Information 10

2 Solar PV Systems on a Building 12 2.1 Introduction 12 2.2 Installation Angle 12 2.3 AvoidShadingPVModules 13 2.4 AestheticandCreativeApproachesinMountingPVModules 14 2.5 SolarPVOutputProfile 14 2.6 Solar PV Yield 15 2.7 CostofaSolarPVSystem 15

3 Appointing a Solar PV System Contractor 16 3.1 Introduction 16 3.2 Getting Started 17 • GetanExperiencedandLicensedContractor 17 • ChoosingBetweenBids 17 • SolarPVSystemWarranty 17 • RegularMaintenance 19 • OtherRelevantMatters 19

4 Solar PV System Installation Requirements 20 4.1 ElectricalInstallationLicence 20 4.2 ElectricalSafetyStandardsandRequirements 20 4.3 ApplicationofElectricalInstallationLicence 21 4.4 ConservationandDevelopmentControlRequirements 21 4.5 GuidelinesonConservationandDevelopmentControl 21 4.6 StructuralSafetyandLightningProtection 22 • StructuralSafety 22 • LightningProtection 22 4.7 ConnectiontothePowerGrid 22 4.8 GetConnectedtothePowerGrid 23 4.9 SaleofSolarPVElectricity 23 4.10 DesignandInstallationChecklist 27

5 Operations and Maintenance 28 5.1 OperationsofSolarPVSystems 28 5.2 RecommendedPreventiveMaintenanceWorks 29

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Appendices

APPendIx A – exAMPleS Of SOlAR PV SySteM On BuIldIngS In SIngAPORe A.1 ZEROENERGYBUILDING@BCAACADEMY 32

A.2 POHERNSHIH(TEMPLEOFTHANKSGIVING) 34

A.3 313SOMERSETCENTRAL 36

A.4 SENTOSACOVE 38

A.5 MARINABARRAGE 40

A.6 LONZABIOLOGICS 42 A.7 ZEROENERGYHOUSE 44

A.8 TAMPINESGRANDE 46

A.9 HDBAPARTMENTBLOCKSATSERANGOONNORTHPRECINCT 48 A.10 HDBAPARTMENTBLOCKSATWELLINGTONCIRCLEPRECINCT 50

APPendIx B B.1 ENGAGINGALICENSEDELECTRICALWORKER 52

APPendIx C C.1 CONTACTINFORMATION 54

APPendIx d – InCentIVeS fOR SOlAR PV SySteM D.1 SOLARCAPABILITYSCHEME(SCS) 55

D.2 MARKETDEVELOPMENTFUND(MDF) 56

D.3 GREENMARKSCHEME 57

D.4 GREENMARKGROSSFLOORAREA(GM-GFA)INCENTIVESCHEME 58

D.5 $100MILLIONGREENMARKINCENTIVESCHEME 59 FORExISTINGBUILDINGS(GMIS-EB)

D.6 ENHANCED$20MILLIONGREENMARKINCENTIVESCHEMEFOR 60 NEWBUILDINGS(GMIS-NB)

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Cognizantofthegrowingpopularityofsolarphotovoltaic(PV) installationsamongstresidentialdwellersaswellasbuildingdevelopers,and thecorrespondingdemand foracomprehensivesetoftechnicalandregulatoryinformation,theEnergyMarketAuthority(EMA)andtheBuildingConstructionAuthority(BCA)gottogetherearlierthisyeartoworkonintegratingtheirrespectivesolarmanuals intoanall-in-onereferenceguidefor thosewhoarekeenon installingsolarPVsystems in Singapore.

The outcome of this joint project,which also saw the involvement of industry partners andstakeholderssuchasPhoenixSolarPteLtd,GrenzonePteLtd,SolarEnergyResearchInstituteofSingapore(SERIS)andSingaporePolytechnic, isthis“HandbookforSolarPhotovoltaic(PV)Systems”. Through this integrated and revised handbook, we hope to be able to provide acomprehensiveguidetotherelevantparties,includingowners,developers,engineers,architects,Licensed ElectricalWorkers and electricians on the key issues, requirements and processespertaining to the installation of solar PV systems.

Aswiththepreviouseditionofthehandbooks,thissinglevolumecoversandprovidesinformationonlicensing,marketandtechnicalrequirements,andbuildingandstructuralissuesthatarerelatedtotheimplementationofsolarPVsystemsinabuildingenvironment.Inaddition,itprovidesnewinformationontheinstallationrequirementsforsolarPVsystems,operationsandrecommendedpreventivemaintenanceworks,andvariousincentivestopromotesolarPVsystemsinSingapore.Wehavealsorefreshedthepresentationofthehandbooktomakeitmoreaccessibleandreader-friendly,aswellastoincorporateexamplesofcompletedsolarPVinstallationsinSingapore.

Wehopeyouwillfindthistobeausefulguide.

david tan Ang Kian SengDeputy Chief Executive DirectorEnergyPlanningandDevelopmentDivision CentreofSustainableBuilding&ConstructionEnergyMarketAuthority BuildingandConstructionAuthority

foreword

2

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Acknowledgements

Wewouldliketothankthefollowingorganisationsfortheirsupportandcontributionsinthedevelopmentofthishandbook:

1) GrenzonePteLtd

2) PhoenixSolarPteLtd

3) SingaporePolytechnic

4) SolarEnergyResearchInstituteofSingapore(SERIS)

5) SPPowerGrid

6) UrbanRedevelopmentAuthority

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1Solar Photovoltaic (“PV”) Systems – An Overview

figure 1. the difference between solar thermal and solar PV systems

1.1 Introduction

Thesundeliversitsenergytousintwomainforms:heatandlight.Therearetwomaintypesofsolarpowersystems,namely,solarthermalsystemsthattrapheattowarmupwater,andsolarPVsystemsthatconvertsunlightdirectly intoelectricityasshowninFigure1.

When thePVmodules are exposed to sunlight, they generate direct current (“DC”)electricity.AninverterthenconvertstheDCintoalternatingcurrent(“AC”)electricity,sothatitcanfeedintooneofthebuilding’sACdistributionboards(“ACDB”)withoutaffectingthequalityofpowersupply.

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Chapter 1SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew

figure 2. grid-connected solar PV system configuration

1.2 Types of Solar PV System

SolarPVsystemscanbeclassifiedbasedontheend-useapplicationofthetechnology.TherearetwomaintypesofsolarPVsystems:grid-connected(orgrid-tied)andoff-grid(orstandalone)solarPVsystems.

Grid-connectedsolarPVsystems

ThemainapplicationofsolarPV inSingapore isgrid-connected,asSingapore’smainislandiswellcoveredbythenationalpowergrid.MostsolarPVsystemsareinstalledonbuildingsormountedonthegroundiflandisnotaconstraint.Forbuildings,theyareeithermountedontherooforintegratedintothebuilding.ThelatterisalsoknownasBuildingIntegratedPhotovoltaics(“BIPV”).WithBIPV,thePVmoduleusuallydisplacesanotherbuildingcomponent,e.g.windowglassorroof/wallcladding,therebyservingadual purpose and offsetting some costs.

Theconfigurationofagrid-connectedsolarPVsystemisshowninFigure2.

Abuildinghastwoparallelpowersupplies,onefromthesolarPVsystemandtheotherfromthepowergrid.ThecombinedpowersupplyfeedsalltheloadsconnectedtothemainACDB.

TheratioofsolarPVsupplytopowergridsupplyvaries,dependingonthesizeofthesolarPVsystem.WheneverthesolarPVsupplyexceedsthebuilding’sdemand,excesselectricitywill be exported into the grid.When there is no sunlight to generate PVelectricityatnight,thepowergridwillsupplyallofthebuilding’sdemand.

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Chapter 1SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew

figure 3. Off-grid solar PV system configuration

Agrid-connectedsystemcanbeaneffectivewaytoreduceyourdependenceonutilitypower,increaserenewableenergyproduction,andimprovetheenvironment.

Off-gridsolarPVsystems

Off-gridsolarPVsystemsareapplicableforareaswithoutpowergrid.Currently,suchsolarPVsystemsareusuallyinstalledatisolatedsiteswherethepowergridisfaraway,suchasruralareasoroff-shoreislands.Buttheymayalsobeinstalledwithinthecityinsituationswhereitisinconvenientortoocostlytotapelectricityfromthepowergrid.Forexample,inSingapore,severalURAparkingsignlightsarepoweredbyoff-gridsolarPV systems.

Anoff-gridsolarPVsystemneedsdeepcyclerechargeablebatteriessuchaslead-acid,nickel-cadmium or lithium-ion batteries to store electricity for use under conditionswherethereislittleornooutputfromthesolarPVsystem,suchasduringthenight,asshowninFigure3below.

1.3 Solar PV Technology

This section gives a brief description of the solar PV technology and the commontechnical terms used.

AsolarPVsystemispoweredbymanycrystallineorthinfilmPVmodules.IndividualPV cells are interconnected to form a PV module. This takes the form of a panel for easy installation.

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Chapter 1SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew

Mono-Crystalline Silicon PV Cell Poly-Crystalline Silicon PV Cell

figure 5. PV technology family tree

PV Cell Types

Poly-crystalline

Mono-crystalline

Amorphous-Si (a-Si)

Tandema-Si/microcrystalline

CIGS(Copper Indium Gallium

Selenide)

CdTe(Cadmium Telluride)

Dye-sensitised (TiO2)

Commerciallyavailable product,

suitable for Singapore

R&D or pilot stage, orunsuitable for

Singapore

Special

Compound semiconductoreg GaAs-based

Crystalline Silicon(wafer based) Thin Film

PVcellsaremadeoflight-sensitivesemiconductormaterialsthatusephotonstodislodgeelectronstodriveanelectriccurrent.TherearetwobroadcategoriesoftechnologyusedforPVcells,namely,crystallinesilicon,asshown inFigure4whichaccounts for themajorityofPVcellproduction;andthinfilm,whichisnewerandgrowinginpopularity.The“familytree”inFigure5givesanoverviewofthesetechnologiesavailabletodayandFigure6illustratessomeofthesetechnologies.

figure 4. Mono-and Poly-Crystalline Silicon PV Cell

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Chapter 1SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew

CIgS thin filmMono-crystalline silicon

Poly-crystalline silicon

flexible amorphous thin film

figure 6. Common PV module technologies

CrystallineSiliconandThinFilmTechnologies

Crystallinecells aremade fromultra-puresilicon rawmaterial suchas thoseused insemiconductorchips.Theyusesiliconwafersthataretypically150-200microns(onefifthofamillimetre)thick.

Thin film is made by depositing layers of semiconductor material barely 0.3 to 2micrometres thick onto glass or stainless steel substrates. As the semiconductor layers aresothin,thecostsofrawmaterialaremuchlowerthanthecapitalequipmentandprocessing costs.

ConversionEfficiency

technology Module efficiency Mono-crystallineSilicon 12.5-15%

Poly-crystallineSilicon 11-14%

CopperIndiumGalliumSelenide(CIGS) 10-13%

CadmiumTelluride(CdTe) 9-12%

AmorphousSilicon(a-Si) 5-7%

table 1. Conversion efficiencies of various PV module technologies

Apart from aesthetic differences, the most obvious difference amongst PV celltechnologiesisinitsconversionefficiency,assummarisedinTable1.

Forexample,athinfilmamorphoussiliconPVarraywillneedclosetotwicethespaceofacrystallinesiliconPVarraybecause itsmoduleefficiency ishalved,forthesamenominalcapacityunderStandardTestConditions1(STC)rating.

1StandardTestConditionsrefertothefollowingtestingconditions:•1,000W/m2 of sunlight•250Ccelltemperature•Spectrumatairmassof1.5

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Chapter 1SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew

ForcrystallinesiliconPVmodules,themoduleefficiencyislowercomparedtothesumofthecomponentcellefficiencyduetothepresenceofgapsbetweenthecellsandtheborderaroundthecircuit i.e.,wastedspacethatdoesnotgenerateanypowerhencelowertotalefficiency.

EffectsofTemperature

AnotherimportantdifferentiatorinsolarPVperformance,especiallyinhotclimates,isthetemperaturecoefficientofpower.PVcellperformancedeclinesascelltemperaturerises.

Forexample, inbright sunlight, cell temperatures inSingapore can reachover70ºC,whereasPVmodulesareratedatacelltemperatureof25ºC.Thelossinpoweroutputat70ºCisthereforemeasuredas(70-25)xtemperaturecoefficient.

Mostthinfilmtechnologieshavealowernegativetemperaturecoefficientcomparedtocrystallinetechnologies.Inotherwords,theytendtoloselessoftheirratedcapacityastemperaturerises.Hence,underSingapore’sclimaticcondition,thinfilmtechnologieswillgenerate5-10%moreelectricityperyear.

APVmoduledatasheetshouldspecifythetemperaturecoefficient.SeeTable2andchartinFigure7.

technology temperature Coefficient [%/°C] Crystallinesilicon -0.4to-0.5

CIGS -0.32to-0.36

CdTe -0.25

a-Si -0.21

table 2. temperature coefficient of various PV cell technologes

moduleoutputrelativetoSTC

figure 7. the effects of a negative temperature coefficient of power on PV module performance

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1.4 Technical Information

Single-core, double isolated sheathed cables that can withstand the environmentalconditions,andminimisetheriskofearthfaultsandshortcircuitsareusedtointerconnectthePVstringsandarrays.ThecableconnectionsareprotectedinenclosuresknownasjunctionboxthatprovidesthenecessaryconnectorsasshowninFigure10.

figure 8. PV String figure 9. PV Array

figure 10. Junction Box

ElectricityproducedbythesolarPVinstallationisintheformofDC.TheoutputofthePVinstallationisconnectedthroughtheDCmaincablestotheDCterminalsofthePVinverterwhereelectricityisconvertedfromDCintoAC.

After conversion, theAC current of thePV inverter is connected throughPV supplycabletothebuilding’selectricalinstallation(ACdistributionboard).

Figure 11 shows a typical PV inverter connected to the electrical installation of abuilding.NotethattheactualconfigurationofthePVinvertermayvaryacrossdifferentsystems.

ThePVmodulesarenextconnectedinseriesintoaPVstringasshowninFigure8. APVarrayasshowninFigure9isformedbytheparallelaggregationofPVstrings.

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Chapter 1SOlAR PhOtOVOltAIC (“PV”) SySteMS – An OVeRVIew

Justlikeanyelectricalinstallationinabuilding,earthingisanimportantsafetyrequirementfor solar PV system. Arrangement must be made for proper connection of the solar PV system to the consumer’s electrical installation earthing system.

In locations susceptible to lightning strikes, a lightning protection system must beprovided,andalltheexposedmetallicstructuresofthesolarPVsystemmustbeboundto the lightning earthing system.

It is the responsibility of the consumers to have their solar PV systemsmaintainedregularly to ensure safe operation of their solar PV systems and electrical installations. SeeFigure12foradiagramshowingthesolarPVsystemformingpartofaconsumer’selectrical installation.

figure 11. typical PV inverter connected to a building’s electrical installation

figure 12. Solar PV system forming part of a consumer’s electrical installation

dC Side AC Side

PVInverter

PV dC Main Cable

PV SupplyCable

AC distributionBoard

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2Solar PV Systems on a Building

2.1 Introduction

TherearemanyexamplesoverseaswherePVmodulesaremountedontheroofandintegratedintobuildingfaçades.TheyworkparticularlywellinEuropeandNorthAmerica,assouth-facingfaçadesintheseregionsarewellexposedtothesun.

InSingapore,wehavetoconsiderthatthesunpassesalmostdirectlyoverhead.ThisisbecausewearelocatedneartheEquator,andthepathofthesunfollowstheEquator,withseasonalvariationsofupto23.5o to the north or south. Therefore there are optimal positionstolocatethePVmodulesthathavetobetakenintoconsideration.RefertoAppendixAforexamplesofsolarPVsystemsonbuildingsinSingapore.

2.2 Installation Angle

To maximise electricity production for use in Singapore, the best location for thePVmodules tobe installed is righton topofabuilding, facing thesky.ThepossibleinstallationoptionsareshowninFigure13.

figure 13. where to install PV modules on a building in Singapore

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figure 14. PV module frames trap dirt as water evaporates from aflat-mounted PV module

Vertical façades and steeply sloped roofs tend to suffer a big loss in the ability to generate electricityinexchangeforhigherpublicvisibility.

WiththePVmodulesfacingthesky,itispossibletoimprovetheyieldbyinstallingPVmoduleson trackers to follow thesun fromeast towestduring theday (single-axistrackers),andfromnorthtosouthduringseasonalchanges(dual-axistrackers).

However, trackerscanonly improvesystemperformanceunderdirectsunshine,andtheygivenoadvantageindiffusedsunlightconditions,suchasoncloudyorhazydays.

Thedownsideofhavingflat-mountedPVmodulesisthattheytendtogetdirtyfromrainwateranddust.SeeFigure14.ItisthereforebettertomountthePVmodulesatanincline(10-15oforframedmodules,oraslittleas3-5oforunframedmodules),toallowrainwatertoproperlydrainoff

2.3 Avoid Shading PV Modules

PV modules should be free from shade. Shading of any single cell of a crystalline silicon PVmodulewilldrasticallyreducetheoutputoftheentirePVmodule.

Thin filmPVmodules aremore tolerant to partial shading than crystalline siliconPVmodules.Typicalculpritsincludeshadowscastbytalltreesandneighbouringbuildings.

Chapter 2SOlAR PV SySteMS On A BuIldIng

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Chapter 2SOlAR PV SySteMS On A BuIldIng

2.5 Solar PV Output Profile

SolarPVonlyproduceselectricitywhensunlightisavailable.TheoutputofasolarPVsystemvarieswithitsratedoutput,temperature,weatherconditions,andtimeoftheday.ThepoweroutputprofileofthePVinstallationasshowninFigure17,ataselectedtestsiteinSingaporecollectedoveraperiodfrom2002-2004,intermsofitscapacityfactor2,showsahighvariationofsolarPVoutput.

figure 15. BIPV modules integrated into a façade

figure 16. BIPV modules integrated into a skylight canopy

2.4 Aesthetic and Creative Approaches in Mounting PV Modules

Besides mounting PV modules on the rooftop, customised PV modules can beintegratedintothebuildingfaçadeinacreative,aestheticallypleasingmanner.Theycanbemountedonanypartoftherooftoporexternalwallsthatiswellexposedtosunlighte.g.skylights,cladding,windows,andexternalshadingdevices.

Theycanalsobeintegratedintoexternalstructuressuchasfaçadesandcanopies,asshowninFigure15andFigure16,respectively.

[2] PV Output capacity factor = Ratio of the actual output of the PV installation at time (t) over its output if it had operated at full rated output.

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2.6 Solar PV Yield

The amount of electricity you are able to generate from a solar PV system depends not onlyontheavailabilityofsunshinebutalsoonthetechnologyyouchoosetoinstall.Forexample,atypical10-kWrooftopsolarPVsysteminSingaporewouldproduceabout11,000to12,500kWhannuallyusingcrystallinePVmodules,and12,000to14,500kWhannuallywithamorphoussiliconthinfilmPVmodules.

2.7 Cost of a Solar PV System

ThecostofyoursolarPVsystemwilldependonmanyfactors:systemconfiguration,equipmentoptions,labourcostandfinancingcost.Pricesalsovarydependingonfactorssuchaswhetherornotyourhomeisnew,andwhetherthePVmodulesareintegratedinto the rooformountedon the roof.Thecost alsodependson thesystemsizeorrating,andtheamountofelectricityitproduces.

Generally,solarPVsystemsentailhighcapitalcosts.Withsolarpower,youcansaveonthepurchaseofelectricityfromthegrid.Butevenwiththesesavings,itwilltakealongtimetorecoverthecapitalcostofthesolarPVinstallation.TheoperatingcostsforsolarPV installationsarenegligible,but theannualmaintenancecostbeyondthewarrantyperiodmayamountto0.5%to1%ofthecapitalcostoftheinstallation.

Thereforeonanoverallbasis,solarPV-derivedelectricityisstillmuchmoreexpensivethanthatfromthepowergrid.However,thecostofsolarPVhashistoricallybeenfallingbyabout4%ayear,andifthiscontinues,solarPVmaybecompetitivewithinthenext10years.ForincentivesonsolarPVsystem,pleaserefertoAppendixD.

figure 17. Varying daily power output profile of PV installation at a selected test site in Singapore

Chapter 2SOlAR PV SySteMS On A BuIldIng

PV

ou

tpu

t ca

pac

ity

fact

or

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3Appointing a Solar PV System Contractor

3.1 Introduction

YouwillneedtoselectacontractortoinstallyoursolarPVsystem.Ifinterested,youmaycheckwiththefollowingorganisationsforsomesolarPVsystemdesignersandcontractors:

• TheListofSolarPVSystemcompanies inSingapore,available fromSustainableEnergyAssociationofSingapore,bycalling63388578orbyvisiting

http://www.seas.org.sg/about-seas/our-committees/cleanenergy/54

• TheSingaporeSustainableDevelopment IndustryDirectory 2008/2009, availablefromtheSingaporeBusinessFederation,bycalling68276838orbyvisiting

http://www.sbf.org.sg/public/publications/industrydirectory.jsp

YourcontractorwillappointaLicensedElectricalWorker(“LEW”)whowillberesponsibleforthedesign,installation,testing,commissioning,andmaintenanceofyoursolarPVsystem.

Inthecaseofnon-residentialelectricalinstallationsthatrequireanelectricalinstallationlicence,theappointedLEWwhosupervisestheelectricalwork(“DesignLEW”)maynotbetheonewhotakeschargeofyourelectricalinstallation(“InstallationLEW”).TheDesignLEWwillthenhavetoworkwiththeInstallationLEWtoworkoutthetechnicalissues.

PleaserefertoAppendixBfordetailsonhowyoucanengageanLEWandthenecessaryconsultation process.

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Chapter 3APPOIntIng A SOlAR PV SySteM COntRACtOR

3.2 Getting Started

First, compile a list of potential solar PV system contractors. Next, contact thecontractorstofindouttheproductsandservicestheyoffer.Thefollowingpointersmaygiveconsumersagoodsenseofthecontractor’scapabilities:

Getanexperiencedandlicensedcontractor

Experienceininstallinggrid-connectedsolarPVsystemsisinvaluable,becausesomeelements of the installation process, particularly interconnection with the grid, areuniquetothesesystems.Acontractorwithyearsofexperiencewillalsodemonstrateanabilitytoworkwithconsumers,andpricetheirproductsandservicescompetitively.

ItisalsoimportanttogetacontractorwhoisanLEW.

Choosingbetweenbids

IfthereareseveralbidsfortheinstallationofasolarPVsystem(itisgenerallyagoodpractice to obtainmultiple bids), consumers should take steps to ensure that all ofthebidsreceivedaremadeonthesamebasis.ComparingabidforasolarPVsystemmounted on the ground against another bid for a rooftop system is like comparing apples to oranges.

Bids should clearly state themaximum generating capacity of the solar PV system[measured inwattspeak (Wp)or kilowattspeak (kWp)]. If possible, thebids shouldspecify thesystemcapacity inACwatts,orspecify theoutputof thesystemat theinverter.

Bids should also include the total cost of getting the solar PV systemcomponents,includinghardware,software,supportingstructure,meter,installation,connectiontothegrid(ifapplicable),permitting,goodsandservicestax,warranty,andfuturemaintenancecost(ifapplicable).

SolarPVsystemwarranty

AsolarPVsystemisaninvestmentthatshouldlastalongtime,typicallytwotothreedecadesforgrid-connectedapplications.TheindustrystandardforaPVmodulewarrantyis20-25yearsonthepoweroutput.

TherearetwomaincomponentstoaPVmodulewarranty:

• Aworkmanshipwarrantythatofferstorepair,replaceorrefundthepurchasein case of defects. The period varies from one to as long as ten years,dependingonthemanufacturer.Twotofiveyearsistypical;and

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• AlimitedpoweroutputwarrantythatoffersavarietyofremediesincasethePVmodule’soutputunderSTCdropsbelowcertainlevel.Mostmanufacturerswarrantatleast90%oftheminimumratedoutputfor10years,and80%oftheminimumratedoutputfor20-25years.Takenotethattheminimumratedoutputisusuallydefinedas95%oftheratedoutputtoallowformanufacturingandmeasurementtolerances.SeeFigure18fordetails.

Chapter 3APPOIntIng A SOlAR PV SySteM COntRACtOR

Takenotethatunderthelimitedpowerwarranty,manufacturersseldomoffertoreplacethePVmoduleitself.Rather,attheirsolediscretion,theymayofferto:

• RepairthedefectivePVmodules; • SupplyenoughnewPVmodules to replace the lostpoweroutput in aPV

array.Forexample,ifyour20kWPVarrayonlyproduces16.1kWunderSTC,sixyearsafterinstallation,themanufacturermayopttosupplyyouwith1kWof PV modules to make up for the shortfall; or

• Refundyouforthelostpoweroutput,afterdeductionaccordingtothenumber

ofyearsinuse.Fora25-yearwarranty,theannualdeductionisnormally4%.Forexample,ifyoufindthatyour20kWPVarrayonlyproduces16.1kWunderSTC,sixyearsafterinstallation,themanufacturermayopttoreimburseyourpurchasepriceminus24%(6yearsx4%).

Inallcases,themanufacturerdoesnotcoveryourcostsofdismounting,transporting,andreinstallingthePVmodules.Thewarrantyalsoexcludesproblemsresultingfromimproper installations; repairs, changes or dismounting by unqualified personnel;accidental breakage or abuse; lightning strikes and other acts of God.

figure 18. understanding a manufacturer’s limited power warranty

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Chapter 3APPOIntIng A SOlAR PV SySteM COntRACtOR

Significantly,mostmanufacturersspecifythatthePVmoduleoutputwillbedeterminedbytheflashtestersintheirownpremises,ratherthanbyathirdparty.

The solar PV system contractor should assist in determiningwhether a PVmoduledefectiscoveredbywarranty,andshouldhandlethesituationwiththemanufacturer.

Regularmaintenance

Duringthedefectliabilityperiod(usuallyfor12monthsafterinstallation),solarPVsystemcontractors usually use remote monitoring data to prepare monthly performance reports of the installed solar PV system. They should come on site to rectify any problems flaggedbytheremotemonitoringservice.

Otherrelevantmatters

AnothermattertobeawareofisthatPVmodulemanufacturersareconstantlyupgradingtheirproducts,andadaptingnewsizesanddimensionstosuitmarket requirements.This means that you may no longer be able to buy an identical PV module to replace adefectiveoneinyourPVarrayafewyearsafterinstallation.NewerPVmodulesarelikelytobemoreefficientorhavedifferentphysicaldimensions,andmaynolongerfitexactlyintothegapleftbytheoldPVmodule.

Thisdoesnotmattermuchonalarge,ground-mountedsolarPVpowerplant,becausethenewmodulescanformanewrow.Butonabuilding-mountedsolarPVsystemitmayspoiltheaesthetics,andmaycauseproblemstotheelectricalconfiguration.

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4Solar PV System Installation Requirements

4.1 Electrical Installation Licence

An electrical installation refers to any electrical wiring, fitting or apparatus used fortheconveyanceandcontrolofelectricityinanypremises.AsolarPVsysteminstalledwithin suchpremises formspart of the consumer’s electrical installation and shouldcomplywiththerequirementsstipulatedintheElectricityAct(Cap.89A),theElectricity(ElectricalInstallations)RegulationsandtheSingaporeStandardCP5CodeofPracticeforElectricalInstallations.

Under the Electricity Act, the Energy Market Authority (“EMA”) licenses all non-residentialelectricalinstallations,withdemandexceeding45kilovoltampereorkVA.Forresidentialelectricalinstallationsandnon-residentialelectricalinstallationswithdemandbelowthethreshold45kVA,noelectricalinstallationlicenceisrequired.

ThelicencerequirestheowneroftheelectricalinstallationtoengageanLEWtotakechargeoftheelectricalinstallationandcomplywiththerelevantsafetystandardsandrequirements.YourappointedLEWshallconsultSPPowerGridLtdontheir technicalrequirementsandprocedures, ifyouwishtooperateyoursolarPVsysteminparallelwiththepowergrid.Theobjectiveistoensureallelectricalinstallations,includingsolarPVsystems,aresafetouse.

4.2 Electrical Safety Standards and Requirements

Agrid-connectedsolarPVsystemoperatesinparallelwiththepowergridsupply.Thepowergridsupplyisconsideredthesource,andtheelectricalinstallationwiththesolarPV system connected is considered as the load.

ThetechnicalrequirementforinstallationofasolarPVsystemisgiveninSection612oftheSingaporeStandardCP5.

ThereareinternationalproductstandardsonPVmodulesandelectricalcomponents.Forexample,PVmodulesshouldcomplywiththerequirementsofIEC61215forcrystallinesilicon terrestrial PVmodules or IEC 61646 for thin-film terrestrial PVmodules. Inaddition,PVarrayjunctionbox,PVgeneratorjunctionboxandswitchgearassembliesshouldcomplywiththerequirementsofIEC60439-1.

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Chapter 4SOlAR PV SySteM InStAllAtIOn RequIReMentS

4.3 Application of Electrical Installation Licence

YourLEWwillbeabletoadviseyouwhetheryouneedtoapplytoEMAforanElectricalInstallation Licence for the use or operation of the electrical installation within thepremises of your building.

IfanElectricalInstallationLicenceisneeded,yourLEWwillsubmitthelicenceapplicationtoEMAonyourbehalf.IfyoualreadyhaveanElectricalInstallationLicenceissuedbyEMA,youneednotapplyforaseparatelicenceforthesolarPVsystemwithinthesamepremises.

The electrical licence fee payable to EMA is $100 per year (exclusive of goods andservicestax).

4.4 Conservation and Development Control Requirements

Atpresent, there isnospecific requirementorcontrolby theUrbanRedevelopmentAuthority (“URA”) on the use of installations such as a solar PV system.However,conservationprojects,orprojectswithintheCentralAreaaresubjecttoURA’sUrbanDesignevaluationprocess.

Thestandarddevelopmentcontrolguidelinesapplytoprojectsthatmaynotbesubjectto conservation or urban design requirements, depending onwhich structure(s) thesolarPVsystemisinstalledonto.Forexample,ifasolarPVsystemisinstalledontherooftopofanattic,thentheatticguidelineswillapply.Likewise,ifasolarPVsystemisinstalledonraisedstructureslikeapavilion,thenthepavilionguidelineswillapply.

4.5 Guidelines on Conservation and Development Control

Architectsareadvisedtorefertotheconservationanddevelopmentcontrolguidelineswhen designing a development with a solar PV system installation. The respectiveguidelineisavailableatURA’swebsite:

http://www.ura.gov.sg/conservation/Cons%20Guidelines.pdf http://www.ura.gov.sg/circulars/text/dchandbook.html

ShouldyouhavefurtherenquiriesonwhetheryourinstallationsconflictwiththeUrbanDesignorDevelopmentControlguidelines,youmaysubmityourenquiriestoURAeitherinpersonorthroughaQualifiedPerson(“QP”)—aQPiseitheraregisteredarchitectoranengineer—withtheaccompanyingplansofthestructuresonwhichthesolarPVsystemwillbeinstalled:

Conservedbuildings Email:[email protected] Tel:63293355

Non-conservedbuildings Email:[email protected] Tel:62234811

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ShouldaformaldevelopmentapplicationtoURAberequired,itmustbemadeviaaQP.Thedetailscanbecheckedatthetwoweblinksbelow:

http://www.boa.gov.sg/register.html

http://www.peb.gov.sg/peb/process/searchPe

4.6 Structural Safety and Lightning Protection

Structural Safety

Toensuresafety,therearemeasuresandstepsthatneedtobetakenorconsideredwheninstallingasolarPVsystemontoaneworanexistingbuilding.Fornewbuildingdevelopments,thedesignofthestructuremusttakeintoconsiderationtheloadingofthesolarPVsysteminstallation,justlikeanyotherequipmentmountedontoabuildingstructure.

Forexistingbuildings,aprofessionalstructuralengineermayberequiredtocarryoutaninspectionoftheroofstructure,anddoacalculationonthestructuralloading.IftheroofisunabletowithstandtheloadingofthesolarPVsystem,structuralplanswillneedtobesubmittedtotheBuildingandConstructionAuthority(“BCA”)forapprovalbeforeabuildingpermitcanbeissuedforcommencementofinstallationworks.TheapplicationguidelineisavailableatthefollowingBCA’swebsite:

http://www.bca.gov.sg/StructuralPlan/structural_plan_application.html

LightningProtection

Givenacertainlocation,solarPVsystemsareexposedtothethreatoflightningstrikes.As lightningcancausedamagetothePVmodulesand inverters,extracaremustbetakentoensurethatproperlightningprotectionisprovidedforthesolarPVsystemandthe entire structure. The inverters should be protected by appropriately rated surgearrestorsontheDCside.ItisgoodpracticetoalsoinstallsurgearrestorsontheACside.Structures and PV module frames must be properly grounded.

4.7 Connection to the Power Grid

If a solar PV system is designed tomeet only a fraction of the electricity load, thesystemwillneedtobeinterconnectedwiththepowergridtomeettheremainderoftheconsumer’s needs for electricity.

IfasolarPVsystemneedstobegrid-connected,interconnectioniskeytothesafetyofbothconsumersandelectricalworkers,andtotheprotectionofequipment.

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4.8 Get Connected to the Power Grid

IfyouintendtoconnectandoperateyoursolarPVsysteminparalleltothepowergrid,yourappointedLEWwillhave toconsultSPPowerGrid (“SPPG”)on theconnectionschemeandtechnicalrequirements.

The following documents set out the detailed consultation process and technical

requirements:

• TheTransmissionCodeandtheMeteringCodearepublishedatEMA’swebsite:

http://www.ema.gov.sg/media/files/codes_of_practice/electricity/transmission_code.pdf

http://www.ema.gov.sg/media/files/codes_of_practice/electricity/Metering_Code.pdf

• SPPG’s handbook, How to Apply for Electricity Connection, is published at SPPowerAsset’swebsite:

http://www.sppowerassets.com.sg/PDF/howtoapply.pdf

4.9 Sale of Solar PV Electricity

Theexcesselectricitygeneratedfromagrid-connectedsolarPVcanbesoldbacktothepowergrid.ThearrangementsneededtoenablethissaleofsolarPVelectricityvary,dependingonwhetheryouareacontestableornon-contestableconsumer.

Consumers are classified, based on their average monthly electricity consumption,into:

• Contestableconsumers:Theseconsumersarethenon-residentialconsumerswhousemorethan10,000kWhofelectricityamonth.Contestableconsumershaveachoiceofwhotheywishtobuytheirelectricityfrom.Theymaypurchaseelectricityfroma retailer, directly from thewholesalemarket (provided they are registeredwith the EnergyMarket Company asmarket participants) or indirectly from thewholesalemarketthroughSPServices.

• Non-contestableconsumers:Theseconsumerscomprisealltheresidentialelectricity

usersandnon-residentialconsumerswhouselessthan10,000kWhofelectricityamonth.TheseconsumersaresuppliedwithelectricitybySPServices.

ContestableConsumers

If you are a contestable consumer generating electricity from a solar PV system and wishtosellandgetpaidfortheelectricityyouinjectintothepowergrid,youwillberequired to registerwith theEnergyMarketCompany (“EMC”) to participate in thewholesaleelectricitymarket,whichiscalledtheNationalElectricityMarketofSingaporeorNEMS.

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Chapter 4InStAllIng A SOlAR PV SySteM

figure 19. flowchart for electricity licences

Theflowchart inFigure19describes thecircumstancesunderwhich theGenerationLicenceorWholesaler(Generation)Licenceisrequired.

GenerationLicenceorWholesaler(Generation)Licencenotrequired

ApplytoEMAforGenerationLicence

ApplytoEMAforWholesaler

(Generation)Licence

ProposedGenerationUnit(e.g.Cogen,PVsystem,etc.)

GenerationCapacity<1MW

GenerationCapacity≥10MW?

1MW ≥GenerationCapacity<10MW? Connectedtopowergrid?

Yes

Yes Yes

No

No No

Theapplicationprocedures to registerasaMarketParticipantwith theEMCand forgeneration facility registration are set out in the Market Manual: Market Administration– Registration and Authorisation,whichisavailableattheEMCwebsite:

http://www.emcsg.com/MarketRules/MarketManuals

AsaMarketParticipant,youwillneedtocomplywiththeMarketRules,whichisavailableatEMC’swebsite:

http://www.emcsg.com/MarketRules

Bysellingelectricityinthewholesaleelectricitymarket,youwillbepaidtheprevailingelectricityspotpricefortheelectricitythatyouinjectintothepowergrid.Theelectricityspot price varies every half-hour, depending on the demand-supply situation in thewholesaleelectricitymarket.

Themarketwillalsoofferservicesandsystemresourcestoyou,butyouwillbesubjectedto market charges in respect to the gross generation output from your registered PV system,fortheprovisionofthemarketservicesandsystemresources.

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TheEMCcontactis:

MarketAdministrationTeam EnergyMarketCompany 238AThomsonRoad,#11-01NovenaSquareTowerA,S307684 Telephone:67793000 E-mail:[email protected]

Non-ContestableConsumers

Ifyouareanon-contestableconsumergeneratingelectricityof less than1MWandwishtosellandgetpaidfortheelectricityyouinjectintothepowergrid,youneednotapplyforaGenerationorWholesaler(Generation)LicencenorregisterwiththeEMCasamarketparticipant.YouwillhavetoapplytoSPServices(“SPS”)byfollowingtheapplicationproceduresetoutinAppendixB.

Non-contestable consumers are compensatedbySPS for electricity exported to thepowergridbywayof a credit adjustment to the consumer’smonthlyelectricitybill,basedontheprevailinglow-tensionelectricitytarifflessthegridcharge.

Thecreditadjustmentwilleffectivelycompensate thenon-contestableconsumer fortheamountofelectricityexportedintothepowergridduringthatmonth.

Thisschemetocompensatenon-contestableconsumerswithgenerationcapacityoflessthan1MWfortheelectricitytheyexport intothepowergrid isnotapplicabletothose consumers whose electricity consumption is metered under the master-submetering scheme.

Master-sub metering schemes refer to metering arrangements where there is amaster-metermeasuringtheoverallelectricityconsumedbythebuilding(i.e.boththeindividualunitsandthecommonservices),withsub-metersmeasuringtheusageoftheindividualunits. Suchmeteringschemesare typicallyused inprivatecondominiumsand commercial buildings.

Underamaster-submeteringarrangement,theelectricitythatanindividualunitattemptstoexport into thegridmay in factbeusedupby thecommonservicesorbyotherindividualunits.Asitisnotpossibletotracktheactualflowoftheelectricityexportedbytheindividualunits,thecreditadjustmentschemecannotbeappliedtothoseunderthemaster-submeteringscheme.

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4.10 Design and Installation Checklist

YouareadvisedtorefertothefollowingchecklistonceyouhavedecidedtoinstallsolarPV system in your premises.

no. design and Installation Checklist Check Box

1 Set your budget and select a location. 2 Determinetheenergyrequirementandestimatethesize of the system. 3 Performasitesurveyforspaceneeded,andaccessformaintenance. 4 Engagealicensedelectricalworker(“LEW”)ifyourproposed solarPVsystem: i) istobeconnectedtotheelectricalinstallationwithin thepremisesofthebuilding;and/or ii) tobeconnectedandoperatedinparalleltothepowergrid.

TheappointedLEWwillberesponsibleforthedesignand implementation of the connection of your solar PV system to theelectricalinstallationand/orpowergrid. 5 Select a PV module type and mounting method. 6 SelectinvertertomatchPVarray: i) Numberofinvertersneeded; ii) Selectinvertertype;and iii) Locationofinverters(accessibleforinspectionandmaintenance). 7 Finalisethemountingsystem. 8 Ensuretherearefixingandmountingpointsavailable. 9 Ensurethestructureformountingissafe: i) AdditionalloadingbysolarPVsystemisconsidered; ii) Windloadingisconsidered;and iii) Waterproofingisnotcompromisedduringinstallation. 10 Ensuresolaraccess: i) Ensurelocationtobemountedwillgetmaximumexposure to sunlight; and ii) Choosealocationthatisnotshaded.

Chapter 4SOlAR PV SySteM InStAllAtIOn RequIReMentS

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no. design and Installation Checklist Check Box

11 EnsureallPVmodulesconnectedtothesameinverter face the same direction. 12 EnsurePVmodulesaremountedatanincline(10to15degrees forframedmodules,oraslowas3-5degreesforunframed modules)forself-cleaning.

13 EnsuresufficientventilationspacebehindthePVarrayfor cooling purposes. 14 Ensure: i) Cablingusedmeetsufficientcurrent-carryingcapacity andaresuitablyratedforusageintheenvironment; ii) DCcablesaresingle-coreanddouble-insulated;and iii) Cableinsulationonoutdoorcablesmustwithstandhigh temperatureandUVexposureforanestimatedperiod of more than 20 years. NotethatPVCandxLPEcablesareinadequateontheDCside andmustnotbeexposedtotheweatherelements. 15 DetermineifaLightningProtectionSystemisneeded. 16 EnsurethePVmoduleframeisearthed. 17 FinalisetheInverterandACwiringsystem. 18 Duringinstallation: i) PVsystemshouldbeinstalledbyqualified/experiencedinstallers; ii) Safetyrulesmustbeobserved; iii) InstallermustwearPPE;and iv)Onlypropercertifiedsafetyequipmentcanbeusede.g.scaffolding,

stepladders,etc. 19 Cablesmustbeproperlyconnected,secured,androuted. 20 Ensurecontinuityandinsulationtestsaredone. 21 Completionoftestingandsystemcommissioning.

22 Propersystem,documentation/manualhandovertoclients.

Chapter 4SOlAR PV SySteM InStAllAtIOn RequIReMentS

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5Operations and Maintenance

figure 20. examples of performance monitoring displays (Courtesy of Phoenix Solar)

5.1 Operations of Solar PV Systems The most practical indicator of the performance of the solar PV systems can be obtained

from the remote monitoring and data logging software supplied by most invertermanufacturers.

Thedataloggingsoftwarewillrecorddaily,monthly,andannualoutputforcomparisonoftheactualsystemperformanceagainsttheexpectedsystemperformance.SeeFigure20 for typical performance monitoring displays.

SolarPVsystems requireminimalmaintenance,as theydonotusuallyhavemovingparts.However, routinemaintenance is required to ensure the solar PV systemwillcontinue to perform properly.

It is a good practice for contractors of solar PV systems to provide an operation&maintenance(“O&M”)manualfortheclient.Themanualshouldincludebasicsystemdata,testandcommissioningdata,O&Mdata,andwarrantyinformation.

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Chapter 5OPeRAtIOnS And MAIntenAnCe

5.2 Recommended Preventive Maintenance Works

Itisrecommendedthatpreventiveinspectionandmaintenanceworksarecarriedouteverysixtotwelvemonths.ThePVmodulesrequireroutinevisualinspectionforsignsof damage, dirt build-up or shade encroachment. Solar PV systemfixturesmust bechecked for corrosion. This is to ensure that the solar PV system is safely secured.

Whiletheinverter’sfunctionalitycanberemotelyverified,onlyon-siteinspectioncanverifythestateoflightningsurgearrestors,cableconnections,andcircuitbreakers.

The following table shows some recommendations on the preventivemaintenanceworksonthecomponentsandequipment,andthecorrespondingremedialactionstobecarriedoutbyqualifiedpersonnel.

S/n Components/equipment description Remedy/Action 1 PVmodules Checkfordust/debris Wipeclean.Donot onsurfaceof useanysolvents PVmodule otherthanwater

Checkforphysical Recommend damage to any PV replacement module if found damaged

Checkforloosecable Retighten terminationsbetween connection PVmodules,PV arrays,etc. Checkforcable Replacecableif conditions necessary

2 PVinverter Checkfunctionality, Recommend e.g. automatic replacement if disconnection upon functionality fails

lossofgridpower supply Checkventilation Cleardustanddirt condition inventilationsystem

Checkforloose Tightenconnection cable terminations Checkforabnormal Recommend operating temperature replacement

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3 Cabling Checkforcable Replacecableif conditionsi.e.wear necessary and tear Checkcableterminals Tightenconnections forburntmarks,hot orrecommend spots or loose replacement connections 4 Junctionboxes Checkcableterminals Tightenor e.g.wearandtear recommend or loose connections replacement

Checkforwarning Replacewarning notices notice if necessary

Checkforphysical Recommend damage replacement

5 Meansofisolation Checkfunctionality Recommend replacement

6 EarthingofsolarPVsystem Checkearthingcable Recommend conditions replacement

Checkthephysical Retighten earthing connection connection

Checkcontinuityofthe Troubleshootor cable to electrical earth recommend

replacement

7 Bondingoftheexposed Checkbondingcable Recommend metallic structure of solar conditions replacement PV system to lightning earth Checkphysicalbonding Tightenconnection connection Checkcontinuityof Troubleshootor the bonding to lightning recommend

earth replacement

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AAppendices

31

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AAppendix A.1 ZeRO eneRgy BuIldIng @ BCA ACAdeMy

Buildingname : ZeroEnergyBuilding@BCAAcademy

Owner : BuildingandConstructionAuthority(BCA)

Location : 200BraddellRoad,Singapore579700

Buildingtype : AcademicInstitution

Completion : 2009

Workinggroups • Projectarchitects : DPArchitectsPteLtd• Principalinvestigators : NationalUniversityofSingapore/SERIS• Structuralengineers : BecaCarterHollings&Ferner(S.E.Asia)PteLtd• M&Eengineers : BecaCarterHollings&Ferner(S.E.Asia)PteLtd• Quantitysurveyor : DavisLangdon&SeahSingaporePteLtd• Contractors : ACPConstructionPteLtd• PVdesign : GrenzonePteLtd• PVmanufacturer : Various(7manufacturers)

TypeofPVintegration : onMetalRoof,Canopy,Louver,Railing,Façade

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Various(mc-Si,pc-Si,a-Si,HIT,CIGS)

PVarea(m2) : 1,540

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 190

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 207,000

PVYield(kWh/kWp/year) : 1,090

Photographs and information courtesyof : BCA/GrenzonePteLtd

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figure A.1.1. Building exterior

figure A.1.3. PV array view (PV Main Roof)

figure A.1.2. PV array view (PV Sunshade)

figure A.1.4. PV array view (PV Staircase facade)

Appendix A.1ZeRO eneRgy BuIldIng @ BCA ACAdeMy

The Solar Photovoltaic System installed at BCA Academy’s Zero-EnergyBuilding(ZEB)consistsof12systemswithsixsystemsconnectedtogridandsix standalone systems.Featuringdifferent typesofSolarPV technology andmountingtechniques,theZEB@BCAAcademy’sSolarPVsystemisdesignedto achieve zero-energy and for advance academic research on various PVperformances.

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Buildingname : POHERNSHIH(TempleofThanksgiving)

Owner : POHERNSHIH

Location : 9ChweeChianRoad,Singapore117488

Buildingtype : Religious

Completion : 2006(PhaseI)

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : LeeCooConsultantAssociates

• Structuralengineers : KTPConsultantsPteLtd

• M&Eengineers : SquireMechPteLtd

• Quantitysurveyor : WTPartnershipInternationalLimited

• Contractors : WeeHurConstructionPteLtd

• PVdesign : GrenzonePteLtd

• PVmanufacturer : Uni-Solar,Sharp,Mitsubishi

TypeofPVintegration : StandingMountingStructure

TypeofPVcelltechnology : AmorphousMonocrystalline Polycrystalline silicon silicon silicon PVarea(m2) : 36.1 39.2 84.7

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 2.232 5.250 11.340

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 2,566 6,036 13,038

PVYield(kWh/kWp/year) : 1,150 1,150 1,150

Photographs and information courtesyof : GrenzonePteLtd

AAppendix A.2 POh eRn ShIh (teMPle Of thAnKSgIVIng)

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ThePVarraysaremountedontherooftopwithstandingmountingstructure,allowing sufficient ventilation to improve PV performance. About 25% ofelectricalpowerdemandinthebuildingaresuppliedbythesolarPVsystem.

figure A.2.1. Building exterior figure A.2.2. Building interior

figure A.2.3. PV array view figure A.2.4. PV array view

Appendix A.2POh eRn ShIh (teMPle Of thAnKSgIVIng)

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AAppendix A.3 313 SOMeRSet CentRAl

Buildingname : 313SOMERSETCENTRAL

Owner : LendLeaseRetailInvestment1PteLtd

Location : 313OrchardRoad,Singapore238895

Buildingtype : ShoppingMall

Completion : 2009

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : AedasPteLtd

• Structuralengineers : MeinhardtInfrastructurePteLtd

• M&Eengineers : BesconConsultingEngineersPteLtd

• Quantitysurveyor : WTPartnershipPteLtd

• Contractors : BovisLendLeasePteLtd

• PVdesign : GrenzonePteLtd

• PVmanufacturer : Various(4manufacturers)

TypeofPVintegration : onTrellisandMetalRoof

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Monocrystalline,Polycrystalline,Micromorph

PVarea(m2) : 587

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 76

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/year) : 87,381

PVYield(kWh/kWp/year) : 1,150

Photographs and information courtesyof : BovisLendLease

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313SomersetCentral iscentrally located intheheartofSingapore’sfamousOrchardRoad.ThesolarphotovoltaicsystemconsistsoffourPVarrays,withamainPVarrayof60kWpmountedon the trellis, and threesmaller arraysfeaturingmonocrystalline,polycrystallineandmicromorphsolarmodulesthatareaccessiblebyvisitors.

figure A.3.1. Building exterior

figure A.3.2. Building exterior

Architect’s Impression of Somerset Central viewed from Orchard Road

Appendix A.3313 SOMeRSet CentRAl

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AAppendix A.4 SentOSA COVe

Buildingname : Private

Owner : Private

Location : SentosaCove,Singapore

Buildingtype : Two-storeybungalowwithbasement

Completion : July2008

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : GuzArchitects

• M&Econsultant : HerizalFitriPteLtd

• PVdesign : PhoenixSolarPteLtd

• Maincontractors : SunhoConstructionPteLtd

• Roofingcontractor SheetMetalInternational

• PVmanufacturer : Uni-Solar

TypeofPVintegration : GluedontoapprovedFazonalmetalroof

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Flexibleamorphoussilicon

PVarea(m2) : 92

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 5.712

EstimatedenergyoutputkWh/yr) : 7,100

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,250

Photographsandinformation : PhoenixSolarPteLtd, courtesyof GuzArchitects,andSheetMetalInternational

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Thisstrikinghousestandsoutforitsopenlayout,cappedwithtwincurvedroofs.Therearroofhasaturflawntokeepitcool,whilethefrontroofgenerateselectricitywithflexiblesolarlaminates,bondedunobtrusivelyontop.ThisconfigurationmeetsSentosaResortManagement’sstrictguidelinesforroofaesthetics,whichdonotgenerallypermitbaremetalroofsonbungalowdevelopments.

Thanksto the laminates’ lightweight (less than4kg/m2), theroofcanmakedowithalighterandlowersubstructurecostthanifithadtocarryconventionalclaytiles.

figure A.4.1. twin curved roofs, green grass and PV

figure A.4.2. lightweight, flexible laminates follow the

curved roof

figure A.4.3. testing the uni-Solar

laminates during installation

Appendix A.4SentOSA COVe

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AAppendix A.5 MARInA BARRAge

Buildingname : MarinaBarrage

Owner : PUB,Singapore’snationalwateragency

Location : Singapore

Buildingtype : FloodControl

Completion : 2008

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : ArchitectsTeam3PteLtd

• Structuralengineers : KohBrothersBuilding&CivilEngineering Contractor(Pte)Ltd

• PVdesign : RenewpowersTechnologiesPteLtd

• Buildingservices : CegelecPteLtd

• Contractors : KohBrothersBuilding&CivilEngineering Contractor(Pte)Ltd

• PVmanufacturer : SolarWorldAsiaPacificPteLtd

TypeofPVintegration : RoofTop

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Monocrystallinesilicon

PVarea(m2) : 1200

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 70

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 76,650

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,095

Photographs and information courtesyof : PUB,Singapore’snationalwateragency

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figure A.5.2. Marina Barrage Solar Park

Marina Barrage spans the mouth of the Marina Channel, creating Singapore’s 15threservoir,anditsfirstinthecity.

ThebarragecreatesafreshwaterlaketoboostSingapore’swatersupply,actsasatidalbarriertopreventfloodinginlow-lyingcityareas,andkeepsthewaterlevelconsistent,offeringavenueforwater-basedactivitiesintheheartofthecity.

Butmore than anengineering showpiece, thebarrageexemplifies thenationalwateragency’scommitmenttowardsenvironmentalandwatersustainability.

OneofSingapore’slargestcommissionedsolarPVsystematasinglesitetodate,MarinaBarrage’ssolarparkhousesoneofthelargestcollectionofsolarpanels–405panelsinall–currentlyinoperationinSingapore.Its70kWpDCgrid-tiedsolarPVsystemisthefirsttobeemployedonsuchalargescalelocally,anditcomeswithaestheticallyarrangedsolarpanels(panelsarearrangedinninearraysof15bythreepanels)onthebarrage’sgreen roof.

The solar panels generate 50%ofutilitygradeelectricityfor lighting and general power in the visitor centre,controlroomandoffices.Theenvironmentally-friendly grid-tied solar PV system does not require batteries, henceeliminating the costs for battery replacement.

figure A.5.1. Aerial view of Marina Barrage

Appendix A.5MARInA BARRAge

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AAppendix A.6 lOnZA BIOlOgICS

Buildingname : LBxS2

Owner : LonzaBiologicsTuasPteLtd

Location : Tuas,Singapore

Buildingtype : Biotechfactoryandlaboratory

Completion : May2009

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : RSPArchitectsPlanners&EngineersPteLtd

• M&Eengineers : JacobsEngineeringSingaporePteLtd

• PVdesign : PhoenixSolarPteLtd

• Contractors : BovisLendLeasePharmaceuticalPteLtd

• PVmanufacturer : REC(framedmodules)andSolar-Fabrik(frameless laminates)

TypeofPVintegration : RoofmountedonBluescopeLysaghtKlipLokmetalroof

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Polycrystallinesilicon

PVarea(m2) : 1,330

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 181

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 217,000

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,200

Photographsandinformation : PhoenixSolarPteLtd courtesyof andLonzaBiologicsTuasPteLtd

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The curved laboratory roof of the Lonza Biologic’s LBxS2 factory offers prominentvisibilitytomaximisepublicawarenessfora181kWpsolarPVsystemonanindustrialbuilding.Thebulkof thePVarrayconsistsof744piecesofREC210modules,whiletheflatteruppersectionoftheroofiscoveredwith104SF130/2framelesslaminatesfromSolar-Fabrik.Without frames to trapwater at shallow installationangles, theselaminateswillavoiddirtaccumulation.

RoofclampswerespeciallyengineeredtoattachthePVmodulerailstotheKlipLokroofseamswithoutanypenetrations.LonzaBiologicswasarecipientofoneoftheinauguralSolarPioneergrantsunderEDB’sSolarCapabilityScheme.

figure A.6.3. Installing the ReC modules

figure A.6.1. Building exterior (Rendering by RSP Architects Planners & engineers Pte ltd)

figure A.6.2. Modules installed on the 6o-16o slope

Appendix A.6lOnZA BIOlOgICS

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Buildingname : ZeroEnergyHouse

Owner : Private

Location : District15,Singapore

Buildingtype : Residential,21/2-storeysemi-detachedhouse

Completion(renovation) : April2008

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : Art&ArchitectureCollaborative

• Structuralengineers : Portwood&Associates

• PVdesign : PhoenixSolarPteLtd

• Contractors : MCLConstruction&EngineeringPteLtd

• PVmanufacturer : MitsubishiHeavyIndustriesandPhoenixSolar

TypeofPVintegration : Roofmountedonmetalroof

TypeofPVcelltechnology : amorphoussiliconandmicromorphsiliconthinfilms

PVarea(m2) : 120

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 8.58

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/year) : 12,000

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,400

Photographs and information courtesyof : PhoenixSolarPteLtd

AAppendix A.7 ZeRO eneRgy hOuSe

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figure A.7.2. west roof flank with micromorph PV modules

figure A.7.1. Building roof with two types of PV module

This1960ssemi-detachedhousewasconvertedintoSingapore’sfirstmodernzero-energyhomebyreducingsolarheatgain,improvingnaturalventilationandaddingarooftopsolarPVsystem,whichgeneratesmoreelectricitythanthe6-personhouseholdconsumes.

The PV modules are mounted on rails that are clamped to the seams of the aluminium Kalziproofwithoutanyroofpenetrations.Asanimportantaddedbenefit,thePVmodulesshadetheroof,keepingtheatticroomsmuchcoolerthantheywouldbeunderarooffullyexposedtothesun.

Appendix A.7ZeRO eneRgy hOuSe

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Buildingname : TampinesGrande

Owner : CityDevelopmentsLtd

Location : Tampines,Singapore

Buildingtype : Officebuilding

Completion : May2009

Workinggroups

• Projectarchitects : Architects61PteLtd

• M&Eengineers : ConteemEngineersPteLtd

• PVdesign : PhoenixSolarPteLtd

• Contractors : DragagesSingaporePteLtd/BYMESingapore

• PVmanufacturer : Suntech(rooftop)andSchottSolar(BIPV)

TypeofPVintegration : RoofmountedandBuildingIntegratedfaçade

TypeofPVcelltechnology : MonocrystallinesiliconandamorphoussiliconthinfilmBIPV

PVarea(m2) : 934

PVsystempeakpower(kWp) : 107

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 120,000

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,200

Photographsandinformation : PhoenixSolarPteLtd courtesyof andCityDevelopmentsLtd

AAppendix A.8 tAMPIneS gRAnde

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figure A.8.1. 6kwp BIPV façade on tower 2

figure A.8.2. Partially completed PV array figure A.8.3. Aerial view of both towers

101kWpofmonocrystallinePVmodulesformthemainrooftopPVarrayonTowers1and2,whilethewestfaçadeofTower2has6kWpofBIPVcomprising40large,custom-builtamorphoussiliconthinfilmmodules.

At the time of completion, this was Singapore’s largest PV system, and the firstcommercialapplicationofathinfilmBIPVfaçade.

The building also boasts a solar air-conditioning system powered by solar thermalcollectors.

TampinesGrandewas a recipient of one of the inaugural Solar Pioneer grants underEDB’sSolarCapabilityScheme.

Appendix A.8tAMPIneS gRAnde

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AAppendix A.9 hdB APARtMent BlOCKS At SeRAngOOn nORth PReCInCt

BuildingName : HDBApartmentBlocksatSerangoonNorthPrecinct

Owner : AngMoKio-YioChuKangTownCouncil

Location : SerangoonNorthAvenue3Block548to554 and550A(Multi-storeyCarpark)

Buildingtype : Residential

Completion : 2008

Workinggroups

• Contractors : KingWanConstructionPteLtd& AsiaticEngineeringPteLtd

• PVmanufacturer : SunsetEnergietechnikGmbH

TypeofPVintegration : Rooftop

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Mono-crystallinesilicon

PrecinctPVarea(m2) : 667.61

PrecinctPVsystempeakpower(kWp): 75.75

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 80,300

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,060

PV Photographs and information courtesyof : HDB

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figure A.9.1. typical rooftop PV array layout at Serangoon north Precinct

The Serangoon North Precinct consists offive blocks of 16 storey and two blocks ofnine storey residential apartments and a multi storeycarpark(MSCP).Sixty-ninepiecesofsolar PV panels are mounted at the rooftop of each residential block and 22 pieces of the panelatthestaircaseroofoftheMSCP.

Appendix A.9 hdB APARtMent BlOCKS At SeRAngOOn nORth PReCInCt

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BuildingName : HDBApartmentBlocksatWellingtonCirclePrecinct

Owner : SembawangTownCouncil

Location : WellingtonCircle508A-C,509A-B,510A-B&508(MSCP)

Buildingtype : Residential

Completion : 2008

Workinggroups

• Contractors : KingWanConstructionPteLtd& AsiaticEngineeringPteLtd

• PVmanufacturer : SunsetEnergietechnikGmbH

TypeofPVintegration : Rooftop

TypeofPVcelltechnology : Mono-crystallinesilicon

PrecinctPVarea(m2) : 667.61

PrecinctPVsystempeakpower(kWp): 75.75

Estimatedenergyoutput(kWh/yr) : 80,300

PVYield(kWh/kWp/yr) : 1,060

Photographs and information courtesyof : HDB

AAppendix A.10 hdB APARtMent BlOCKS At wellIngtOn CIRCle PReCInCt

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figure A.10.1. typical rooftop PV array layout at wellington Circle Precinct

The Wellington Circle Precinct consistsof seven blocks of 12 storey residentialapartments and aMSCP. Sixty-nine piecesof solar PV panels are mounted at the rooftop of each residential block and 22 pieces of the panelatthestaircaseroofoftheMSCP.

Appendix A.10HDB APARTMENT BLOCKSAT WELLiNgTON CiRCLE PRECiNCT

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BAppendix B. engAgIng A lICenSed eleCtRICAl wORKeR

1. Engaging a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW)

1.1 TherearethreeclassesofLEWs:LicensedElectrician,LicensedElectricalTechnician,andLicensedElectricalEngineer.ThevariousclassesofLEWsareauthorisedtodesign,install,repair,maintain,operate,inspectandtestelectricalinstallationsaccordingtotheconditionsstatedbelow:

Class of lew Approved load Voltage level

Electrician Notexceeding45kVA 1000V&below

ElectricalTechnician Notexceeding150kVA (Design);notexceeding500kVA (Operation) 1000V&below

ElectricalEngineer Nolimit Subjecttolicenseconditions

1.2 The Singapore Standard for electrical safety applicable to solar PV Systems is set out in theCodeofPracticeforElectricalInstallations(SingaporeStandardCP5:2008),whichispublishedbySPRINGSingapore.TheLEWwhomyouappointtocarryoutorsupervisetheelectricalworksassociatedwithyourPVsystemwillberesponsibleforthecompliancewiththerelevantsafetystandardsandrequirements.

1.3 YoucansearchforLEWsandtheircontactparticularsatthefollowingEMAwebsite: http://elise.ema.gov.sg

1.4 ForenquiriesonLEWs,youcancontactEMA’sElectricityInspectorateBranchat: Tel:68358060 Email:[email protected]

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2 Guide for consumers – Installation of Solar PV Systems

Appendix B.1engAgIng A lICenSed eleCtRICAl wORKeR

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CC.1 COntACt InfORMAtIOn

Appendix

for enquiries on the following matters pertaining to Solar PV systems, please contact: (1) Buildingsissues Building And Construction Authority (BCA) Email:[email protected] Tel:1800-3425222(1800-DIALBCA)

(2) DevelopmentPlanningControl urban Redevelopment Authority (uRA) –ConservedBuildings BuildingConservation Email:[email protected] Tel:63293355

(3) DevelopmentPlanningControl urban Redevelopment Authority (uRA) –Non-conservedBuildings Non-conservedbuildings Email:[email protected] Tel:62234811

(4) ElectricityGenerationLicences energy Market Authority (eMA) EconomicRegulation&LicensingDepartment Email:[email protected] Tel:68358000

(5) LicensedElectricalWorkers energy Market Authority (eMA) (“LEWs”) ElectricityInspectorateBranch Email:[email protected] Tel:68358060

(6) Electricitymarketrules, energy Market Company (eMC) marketregistrationprocess, MarketAdministrationTeam andmarketcharges Email:[email protected] Tel:67793000

(7) Connectiontothepowergrid SP Services ltd (SPS) Email:[email protected] Tel:68238283/68238284

(8) Connectiontothepowergrid SP Powergrid ltd (SPPg) Email:[email protected] Tel:68238572

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DAppendix d.1 SOlAR CAPABIlIty SCheMe (SCS)

The Economic Development Board (EDB) unveiled the Solar Capability Scheme to spur demand and build up expertise for this young but growing field. The scheme – the latest by Clean Energy Programme Office (CEPO) – seeks to strengthen critical capabilities of companies engaged in activities such as engineering, architecture and system integration through increased implementation of solar energy technologies by lead users in Singapore.

Agency : EDB

Quantum : $20Million(Overall);$1Millionperprojectorupto40%of total capital cost of solar technology.

TargetGroup : Engineering; Architecture; System Integration (Withimplementationofsolarenergytechnologies)

ForReading : http://www.edb.gov.sg/edb/sg/en_uk/index/news/articles/ cepo_launches_solar.html

http://www.edb.gov.sg/edb/sg/en_uk/index/news/articles/ Award_Ceremony_for_Solar_Testbeds.html

ForDetails : http://www.edb.gov.sg/etc/medialib/downloads/industries. Par.98811.File.tmp/Solar%20Capability%20Scheme%20Factsheet.pdf

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DAppendix d.2 MARKet deVelOPMent fund (Mdf)

The MDF seeks to incentivise the use of clean and renewable energy resources among non-residential consumers and developers by offsetting the market charges and related costs associated with selling clean and renewable energy into the power grid. This will help to promote energy efficiency as well as help in the market integration of innovative clean and renewable energy resources.

Agency : EnergyMarketAuthority(EMA)

Quantum : $5million;$50,000overaspanof5yearsor90%ofincurred marketchargesforapprovedprojects,whicheverislower.

TargetGroup : Non-residentialconsumersanddeveloperswhochoosetosell excesselectricitygeneratedfromcleanandrenewableenergy technologiestothepowergrid.

ForDetails : http://www.ema.gov.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=artic le&id=125&Itemid=141

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Agency : BuildingandConstructionAuthority(BCA)

TargetGroup : Developers Designers Builders

ForReading : http://www.greenmark.sg

http://www.bca.gov.sg/GreenMark/green_mark_buildings.html

ForDetails : http://www.bca.gov.sg/greenmark/others/gmtc.pdf

DAppendix d.3 gReen MARK SCheMe

The Green Mark Scheme was launched to promote environmental awareness in the construction and real estate sectors. It is a benchmarking scheme that aims to achieve a sustainable built environment by incorporating best practices in environmental design and construction, and the adoption of green building technologies.

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DAppendix d.4 gReen MARK gROSS flOOR AReA (gM-gfA) InCentIVe SCheMe

To encourage the private sector to develop buildings that attain higher tier Green Mark ratings (i.e. Green Mark Platinum or Green Mark GoldPLUS), BCA and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) have introduced a set of Gross Floor Area (GFA) incentives on 29 Apr 2009. For developments attaining Green Mark Platinum or GoldPLUS, URA will grant additional floor area over and above the Master Plan Gross Plot Ratio (GPR) control.

Agency : BCAandURA

TargetGroup : Allnewprivatedevelopments,redevelopmentsand reconstructiondevelopmentssubmittedonorafterthe effectivedate.

ForDetails : http://www.bca.gov.sg/GreenMark/gmgfa.html

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DAppendix d.5 $100 MIllIOn gReen MARK InCentIVe SCheMe fOR exIStIng BuIldIngS (gMIS-eB)

The GMIS-EB aims to encourage private building owners of existing buildings to undertake improvements and/or retrofits to achieve substantial improvement in energy efficiency. It provides a cash incentive that co-funds up to 35% (capped at $1.5 million) of the upgrading/retrofitting costs for energy efficiency improvement in their existing buildings.

Agency : BCA

TargetGroup : Buildingowners/developersofprivateexistingnon- residentialdevelopmentsthatiscentrallyair-conditioned, withgrossfloorareaof2,000sqmabovee.g.energy intensivebuildingssuchasshoppingmalls,hotels,office buildings,hospitals,andothercentrallyair-conditioned buildings. ForDetails : http://www.bca.gov.sg/GreenMark/gmiseb.html

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Agency : BCA

TargetGroup : Developers,buildingowners,projectarchitectsandM&E engineerswhomakeeffortstoachieveatleastaBCAGreen MarkGoldratingorhigherinthedesignandconstructionof newbuildings.

ForDetails : http://www.bca.gov.sg/GreenMark/GMIS.html

The GMIS-NB is to help accelerate the adoption of environmentally-friendly green building technologies and building design practices. The enhanced scheme offers cash incentives.

DAppendix d.6 enhAnCed $20 MIllIOn gReen MARK InCentIVe SCheMe fOR new BuIldIngS (gMIS-nB)

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disclaimer

The information in this handbook is subject to change or revision, to adapt to the continual development andevolvementoftheelectricityandbuildingandconstructionindustriesandisnotasubstituteforanylaw,regulation,codeofpractice,standardofperformance,MarketRulesorBuildingControlActwhichmayapplytothesaidindustriesinSingapore.ItdoesnotinanywaybindtheEnergyMarketAuthority(“EMA”)andtheBuildingandConstructionAuthority(“BCA”)tograntanyapprovalorofficialpermissionforanymatters,includingbutnotlimitedtothegrantofanyexemptionnortothetermsofanyexemption.BothEMAandBCAreservetherighttochangeitspoliciesand/ortoamendanyinformationinthishandbookwithoutpriornotice.Personswhomaybeindoubtabouthowtheinformationinthishandbookmayaffectthemortheircommercialactivitiesareadvisedtoseekindependentlegaladviceoranyotherprofessionaladviceastheymaydeemappropriate.BothAuthoritiesassumenoresponsibilityorliabilityforanyconsequences(financialorotherwise)suffereddirectlyorindirectlybypersonswhohaveenteredintocommercialactivitiesuponrelianceonanyinformationinthisdocument.

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EnergyMarketAuthority991GAlexandraRoad,#01-29Singapore119975Tel:(65)68358000Fax:(65)68358020

BuildingandConstructionAuthority5MaxwellRoad#16-00TowerBlockMNDComplexSingapore069110MainLine:1800-3425222(1800-DIALBCA)

ISBN:978-981-08-4462-2