Frequently Asked Questions

Why go solar?

What are the advantages of solar energy?
Solar energy is cheap, low maintenance, silent, environmentally friendly, and contributes to energy independence. It's abundant in Thailand due to the country's high solar irradiance, contributing to energy independence and stability against fluctuating electricity prices. It allows for significant savings on electricity bills, up to 80% according to some estimates. Solar panels can be a stable source of energy, unaffected by price swings in electricity markets and foreign energy supplies.
Why is now the right time to invest in a solar system?
Now is the best time to invest in a solar system because the cost of photovoltaic systems has decreased significantly while efficiency has increased. High and constantly rising electricity prices make the investment in solar power lucrative. The technology advances and proven model make the investment secure and allow for precise savings calculation.
How does VOLT help me reduce my electricity costs?
In recent years, there has been a clear trend in the development of electricity prices. Prices for private households have grown by more than 25% in the last 10 years, from 3.9 to around 5.1 baht per kilowatt-hour. On the other hand, the cost of solar electricity is becoming cheaper as the technology improves and the production of modules in large quantities becomes less expensive. Our mission is to enable our customers to save money with an eye on the environment, instead of filling the pockets of large corporations.
How much will I save with my VOLT solar system?
Your savings potential depends on several factors: the size of the solar system and its location, the proportion of self-consumption during daytime, the development of household electricity prices, and the time period considered (e.g., over 10, 20, or 30 years). Thus, the savings potential is very individual and also depends on how electricity prices develop in the future. Generally, the owner of a 5.5kW system with favorable conditions and high daytime use can expect to enjoy over 1.7 mln baht in savings over the system lifetime. VOLT's solar experts will gladly calculate your individual savings potential.
Who benefits from installing a solar system?
Homeowners and business owners looking to cut electricity costs and reduce their environmental impact benefit from solar systems. Given the country's ample sunlight, solar energy is a practical and sustainable choice for clean energy production.
Is a solar system economically viable?
With Thailand's abundant solar irradiance, a solar system is a sound investment due to the savings on electricity costs it offers and the value it adds to your property. Average system breaks even in around 4-6 years while producing practically free electricity for over 30 years and saving millions of baht depending on the system size and consumption patterns.
Is a solar system environmentally friendly?
Yes, solar systems are environmentally friendly as they generate clean and renewable energy without harmful emissions. The production of solar cells and modules requires energy and resources, but this is offset by the clean energy produced over their lifespan. Solar modules are mostly made of glass, aluminum, and silicon. These materials can be well recycled and reused.
Will solar system increase the price of my house?
Similar to any improvement, installing a home solar system has the potential to enhance the value of your property and attract prospective buyers. According to a study conducted in 2019 in the US, homes equipped with solar panels tend to sell for an average of 4.1% more than those without solar installations.
What happens after I switch to solar?
Once you transition to solar energy, you'll hardly notice any change in your daily routine. Your lights, appliances, televisions, and all other electrical devices will continue to function just as they did before. The main difference you'll observe after making the switch to solar is in your billing structure. You will still receive a monthly bill from your utility company. If you're enrolled in a monthly rental plan with VOLT, you'll receive two separate bills.

VOLT Product

What is the rental option that VOLT offers?
"Purchasing solar generally requires upfront investment which can make it cost-prohibitive for many. That’s why VOLT offers stress-free solar rent-to-own payment option, so you can switch to solar and enjoy savings right away: no down-payment or collateral required; no opening fees or additional costs, fast approval; no impact on your NCB score; partial or full payment possible anytime; transferable to another person in case of property sale. You pay in fixed monthly installments for 8 years, after that you own the system. Everything is included, so you can simply enjoy the savings and contribute to a greener future: system, paperwork, financing, 24/7 monitoring, maintenance, cleaning, insurance and warranties (if something breaks, we fix it)."
What does a solar system cost at VOLT?
At VOLT system prices start at 165,000 baht. With VOLT, you can rent a solar system instead of buying it, saving you the high purchase costs. Instead, you pay a monthly rent that is all-inclusive and comes with a fixed price guarantee. The rent at VOLT starts at 3,199 baht per month and is based on the size of the solar system. All costs are included: planning and simulation of your system, individual personal consultation, installation of high-quality components, replacement of the electricity meter, maintenance, repair, insurance, monitoring, replacement of defective parts, replacement of the battery, service. It's an all-inclusive, worry-free package!
Should I rent or buy my solar system?
"Your house, your energy, your decision: You can rent or buy your solar solution from VOLT at an all-round carefree tariff. With the solar solution for rent, all costs are included: system, financing, maintenance and insurance, exchange of defective components such as inverters or storage. For 8 years, the price remains constant and is therefore inflation-proof. After 8 years, the system belongs to you and then continues to produce electricity free of charge. You don't have to worry about anything - all-round carefree! When buying, you acquire the solar solution directly and can immediately call yourself the owner and enjoy greater savings from day 1! However, financing, maintenance, and service are not covered here."
What is VOLT's service package?
VOLT aims to simplify solar energy and offer an all-round care-free service. That's why we provide our rental customers with an industry-leading service package which includes: 24/7 remote system monitoring and proactive issue resolution; fire insurance (to protect you house from fire incidents); annual maintenance and cleaning for 5 years (thereafter, service package is available for 299 baht / month; and extended warranties: 5 years for installation damages, 12 years for inverter, 12 years for solar panel product and 30 year panel performance guarantee.
Our VOLT solution sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? But it is! How does it work?
Thanks to the VOLT solution, you reduce your electricity costs, increase the value of your property, and actively contribute to preserving our earth for future generations. With the VOLT all-inclusive rental package, you incur no acquisition costs. These are pre-financed by us and paid back through the rent allowing you to operate your solar system without high investment costs. Furthermore, thanks to the VOLT rental solution, you benefit from our all-inclusive package throughout the entire contract period. Any service, all maintenance, and if necessary, repairs are fully covered by VOLT. There are no extra costs for you. After 8 years, you own the system.
What do I need to take care of?
If you rent your solar system from us, we take care of all the steps. Our craftsmen are deployed nationwide and take care of the installation, meter exchange, registration with the grid operator and in the market master data register, as well as maintenance and repair of your system. We make the process as simple as possible for you.
Does VOLT provide any insurance?
At VOLT we're commited to providing customers with an all-round worry-free product. We include insurance for your piece of mind — installation damage warranty for 5 years (for example, in case the roof gets damaged during the installation) and solar system insurance (covers the system and damages caused by the system to the house, terms and conditions apply, for residential clients only).
What do I need to do to get a rental plan?
"For customers who want to do financing, we require signed copies of these docuemnts: - National ID card - Bank book - Pay slip / Letter of Employment - Bank statement (6 months) - Witholding tax certificate (TAWI50) - House registration document / property title deed / rental contract Once we receive these documents, we will make a request with the bank to collect NCB score and finalize the decision."
If I need more energy, can I grow my solar panel system?
Of course! At VOLT, you can easily expand your solar panel system to get more energy. You just need to have the necessary space for installation. We are happy to help you expand your projects and also offer the installation of additional energy-saving products, such as solar water heaters and electric stoves. We are here to meet your energy needs!
When do I start paying?
You only pay when your system is commissioned and starts producing the electricity.
Why choose VOLT?
VOLT is transforming the solar industry with a focus on exceptional quality and first-class customer service through the most advanced technology. Our mission is to democratize access to clean energy and drive its adoption in Thailand by simplifying the process and offering unique financing. Backed by international investors, we are a team of German and Thai entrepreneurs with a presence throughout Thailand, boasting a highly trained team with over 10 years of experience in the solar industry. Choosing VOLT means trusting in excellence and innovation at every step of the process.

Selecting a system

How does VOLT size and design my solar system?
The sizing and selection of the right system is complicated because there are many factors to consider, such as the amount of sun throughout the year, electricity costs in your area, and whether there are shadows on your roof from trees or other buildings. Proper sizing means installing just the right number of panels to save energy in the best way. Our artificial intelligence software together with experienced solar electricians analyze your energy consumption and solar incidence on your roof using satellite technology and LiDAR, a remote sensing system that uses laser to measure distances. This process accurately calculates the amount of available sunlight. Then, our system generates an optimal solar design tailored to your needs. This approach contrasts with other companies that still use static and less accurate methods.
Are there houses that solar cannot be built on?
The VOLT solution is generally applicable to most types of roofs in Thailand. However, it may not be feasible for homes with outdated electrical systems, certain roofs and tiles, or roofs that are too small or heavily shaded. Our professional solar electricians will conduct the inspection of your house before installation to make sure your roof is suitable for the system.
What other factors should I consider when choosing a location for my solar system?
Homeowners should consider roof orientation towards the sun, the angle of inclination for optimal sunlight capture, local weather patterns, and potential shading from nearby structures or vegetation. Local building codes and regulations should also be taken into account.
What happens to energy production on rainy or cloudy days?
On rainy or cloudy days, the energy production of solar panels may be reduced due to decreased sunlight. However, modern solar systems are designed to continue generating electricity even in less than ideal weather conditions. While the output may be lower during periods of low sunlight, solar panels can still produce energy from diffuse light. But you wont have to worry to loose electricity, as the electricity will come from the grid.
Why do you need my electricity usage data?
Your past electricity consumption data enables us to tailor a bespoke solar system that perfectly suits your home and consumption patterns. As electricity usage differs from individual to individual and can fluctuate throughout the year, we request a complete year's worth of your electricity bills. This comprehensive data allows us to design a system that precisely meets your requirements.
Will trees/shade impact my solar performance?
Shade on your solar panels diminishes their performance. During the system design phase, we consider any existing shade on your roof. However, changes in tree shape or height can increase shading and result in reduced energy production over time. To optimize the performance of your solar system, it's advisable to maintain trimmed trees to prevent them from obstructing sunlight from reaching your panels.
Will my solar system still work after 30 years?
The solar panels installed on your roof are designed to maintain electricity production well beyond the 30-year mark, albeit with a gradual decrease in efficiency averaging 0.5% per year. Our solar systems are crafted with the longevity of our equipment in consideration, factoring in this anticipated decline in performance within our production estimates. As a result, even after 30 years, your system is projected to operate at approximately 87.4% of its original capacity, ensuring your home continues to benefit from clean, renewable energy.

Hardware

Which hardware does solar system consist of?
Every solar system includes solar panels, inverters, smart meter, mounting structures, and electrical wiring. Solar panels are the primary components that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity using photovoltaic cells. Inverters are responsible for converting the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used to power household appliances and devices. A smart meter is a device that measures your electricity usage and tracks the electricity you generate and consume providing detailed information on your energy production and consumption. Mounting structures are the support structures that secure the solar panels to the roof, ensuring they are properly oriented to receive sunlight. Electrical wiring includes all the cables, connectors, and wiring needed to connect the solar panels, inverters, and other components together and to your home's electrical system.
What type of panels do you install?
We install Tier 1 half-cut monocrystalline solar panels. Modules: TIER 1, Half-Cell Monocrystalline technology, PERC 20%+ efficiency with 30 year warranty. Brands like JA Solar, Jinko Solar, TW Solar, etc.
What does Tier 1 mean?
The Tier-1 classification is a list of photovoltaic solar panel manufacturers ranked based on their solvency and financing capacity, updated quarterly.
What type of inverters do you install?
We use Huawei Gen 3 inverters with efficiency levels exceeding 98.5%, high-frequency switching and advanced MPPT algorithms. It is a robust solution for solar systems, maximizing efficiency in converting solar energy to electricity. With advanced technology, they ensure optimal and reliable performance, contributing to efficient use of solar energy in your installation with 12 year warranty.
What type of smart meters do you install?
We utilize Huawei, the most advanced smart meters available, equipped with features such as real-time data monitoring, two-way communication with utility companies, time-of-use billing support, integration with home energy management systems, and enhanced security features.
Do I need a battery?
The need for a solar battery depends on your energy requirements and preferences. Solar batteries store excess energy for use when the sun isn't available, providing benefits such as increased self-consumption, energy independence, and backup power during outages. However, batteries currently have a high cost and increase the break even period for up to 12 years. Our professional solar specialists will advise on the necessity of the battery in your particular case.
What type of batteries do you install?
We use industry-leading lithium-ion batteries by Huawei that offer over 200 Wh/kg, efficient energy storage in a compact form factor with a round-trip efficiency of over 95%.
What type of EV chargers do you install?
We provide customers with Huawei EV charger with rapid charging feature (rates of up to 11 kW) and dynamic load balancing which dynamically adjusts charging rates based on household energy usage patterns.

Registration

What steps do I have to take to register my system?
At VOLT we cover all the required steps for you. We will collect required documents from you from this list and apply to MEA/PEA for licenses. This process takes several weeks to finish, but you can start using clean energy from the system right after the installation.
What is a feed-in tariff or net metering?
Net metering in Thailand allows solar PV system owners to sell surplus electricity back to the grid. Currently, the feed-in tariff for this excess electricity is 2.1 baht per kilowatt-hour (only applicable to systems up to 10 kWp). This means that when your solar panels generate more electricity than you need, you can offset your grid electricity consumption and earn credits for the energy you contribute.
How long does the registration with the grid operator take?
The approval from PEA/MEA often only takes a few weeks but can sometimes unfortunately drag on for longer. Before a solar system can be commissioned, it must be registered with the responsible grid operator. This is often a lot of bureaucratic effort. VOLT takes care of filling out and submitting the documents to the grid operator so that customers don't have to worry about anything. VOLT works closely with all grid operators to complete the grid registration as quickly and smoothly as possible in the interest of its customers.

Installation

What happens during the installation?
"Once we've finalized your system design and obtained all necessary approvals, we'll proceed with installing the solar panels on your roof. Our local installation teams are skilled and efficient, often completing installations in just one day. Here's an overview of what you can expect on installation day: Step 1 - Crew Arrival and Preparation: Upon arrival, our team will introduce themselves and determine the work areas and parking locations. Step 2 - Review System Design and Equipment Location: Your designated foreman will review the system plans with you, confirming the placement of equipment. Step 3 - System Installation: Our crew will begin installing the solar panels and wiring on your roof, while the foreman oversees the installation of the inverter and other electrical components. Step 4 - Crew Clean Up: As the installation nears completion, we'll tidy up the work area to ensure your property is left in pristine condition. Step 5 - Final Walk-Through: After installation, your foreman will provide a final walk-through, explaining how your new solar system operates and how to activate it."
What happens to my roof during installation?
Since VOLT home solar systems are roof-mounted, we do drill holes in the roof to anchor the racking equipment for the panels during installation. All our roof penetrations are made watertight and are guaranteed by a 5 year workmanship warranty. One little known benefit, once the solar panels are on your roof, they can protect the underlying sections from normal weathering and increase its longevity.
How much time does the installation take place?
Normally, the installation of the system takes a day. However, before our team arrives at your home, we undertake several steps to ensure a hassle-free installation experience for you that take about 3-4 weeks. These steps include a site survey, finalized custom design, and applying for permits.
When will the system be commissioned?
Normally, the commissioning of the PV system takes place directly after the installation and the meter exchange. In individual cases, however, it may happen that the grid operator specifies special conditions that require additional checks. Once these checks have been successfully completed, the system can be commissioned.

Maintenance

How do I take care of the solar system?
Solar panels require clean up in order to maximize the electricity production. Since PV systems produce energy from contact with sunlight, the more the surface is, the higher is the output. With VOLT Care package included into the duration of a rental plan, we provide annual cleaning and maintenance for you to ensure optimal production.
What happens if my system is not working as expected?
If you have reason to believe the solar system is damaged or not working as expected, please let us know right away by contacting our Customer Care team on Line @voltsolar