As Dubai’s summer temperatures soar and air conditioning becomes an all-day necessity, residents are feeling the pinch of rising electricity bills. With sunlight pouring in for most of the year, why not make that sunshine work for you?
Solar panels are quickly becoming a smart, eco-friendly solution for homeowners in Dubai, not just for reducing their environmental impact, but also for saving on energy costs. With strong government support and innovative initiatives, there’s never been a better time to harness solar energy. In this feature, Connector explores the key benefits and some practical considerations to help you decide if going solar is the right move for your home.
Why Go Solar?
The UAE’s bold commitments to renewable energy have set new global benchmarks, and solar technology is playing a transformative role in this movement. Using solar panels to convert solar energy into electricity is becoming an increasingly popular and sustainable way of energy production, especially in a region with abundant sunlight throughout the year. Solar panels offer a way to not only ensure that you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future, but also to cut down your electricity bills.
Dubai is one of the sunniest cities in the world, making it an ideal location for solar energy. According to the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai receives about 2,200 kilowatts per square metre of the Global Horizontal Irradiance annually, meaning your rooftop has the potential to generate substantial clean energy.
Here’s why installing solar panels makes sense, according to DEWA:
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Cut your electricity bills: Solar panels can slash your power bills by up to 50%. Once installed, your system can cover the installation cost within 6 to 8 years and further generate free electricity for a long time, depending on the quality and maintenance of the setup.
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Support the environment: Solar energy doesn’t produce air or water pollution or greenhouse gases. That means every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you generate is a step toward reducing your carbon footprint.
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Boost property value: Homes with solar installations are seen as high-value by potential buyers and renters, thanks to their long-term savings on energy costs.
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Earn credits for extra power: Through DEWA’s 'Shams Dubai' initiative, you can connect your system to the city’s power grid. If your solar panels generate more energy than you use, you earn credits that lower your monthly DEWA bills.
According to DEWA, every kWh of solar energy that we produce in Dubai reduces our demand for electricity, thereby directly contributing to the UAE’s long term sustainability and energy goals.
Is Solar Right For Your Home?
While solar panels offer many advantages, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Before making the switch, it’s important to assess your home’s suitability. Solar energy companies based in Dubai, like Wattz Energy and Zaish Energy, provide some useful tips to consider.
Ideal candidates for solar:
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Villas with ample rooftop space: South-facing rooftops without shade offer the best results.
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Families with high energy use: If your electricity bills are over Dhs 1,500 per month, you’re likely to see quicker returns in terms of energy savings through the use of solar panels.
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Long-term residents: Since the average break-even period, or the time it takes to cover your expenses with the generated savings, is 6 to 8 years, solar panels work best if you plan to keep the house for the long run.
Situations where solar may not work:
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Renters or those in apartments may not have the right access or approval for solar installations.
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Homes with heavily shaded roofs or older buildings may need structural reinforcements to handle the additional weight.
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Things To Consider Before Installing
1. Costs and financing
While the upfront cost of installing solar panels may seem steep, typically around Dhs 35,000 for a 5kW system, there are ways to ease the financial load. One common way is to apply for a 'green loan', which are low-interest loans offered by several UAE banks, with repayment terms up to 10 years.
2. Types of solar panels
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Monocrystalline panels: These are the most efficient and ideal for homes with limited space.
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Polycrystalline panels: Slightly less efficient but more budget-friendly, great for larger roofs.
3. Maintenance and durability
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Cleaning: In Dubai’s dusty climate, panels should be cleaned at least twice a year. Dust build up can reduce efficiency by 15 to 25%.
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Warranty: Most panels come with a 25-year performance warranty and around 10 years for installation workmanship.
What To Expect During Installation
Step 1: Consultation and site assessment. A DEWA-approved solar contractor will evaluate your roof’s orientation, shading, and daily energy usage to design the optimal setup.
Step 2: Permits and approvals. You’ll need a No-Objection-Certificate (NOC) from DEWA, which usually takes 1 to 2 weeks. There’s a one-time application fee. Once you obtain the NOC, the solar panel system design needs to be sent to Dubai Municipality for approval with details including type and number of solar panels, its location and also how they will be connected to the grid. Following this, you will also need to get the construction permit from Dubai Municipality. All of this can be easily accessed on their official website.
Step 3: Installation. The physical installation takes 1 to 3 days with minimal disruption to your household.
Step 4: Grid connection. DEWA will install a bi-directional meter within 2 to 4 weeks to measure the energy you use and send back to the grid.
Final Tips For Going Solar
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Compare contractors: Always get quotes from DEWA-approved installers and compare the rates for the services offered. Look for experienced companies.
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Check the warranty: Choose systems with at least a 25-year performance guarantee.
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Stay on top of maintenance: Regular professional cleaning, especially after sandstorms, helps maintain peak efficiency.
Installing solar panels isn’t just a green decision, it’s a smart one. For Dubai residents, especially those in villas or family homes with high energy use, solar offers real savings, adds value to your property, and contributes to the nation’s bold climate goals.
With sunshine on your side and strong government support, going solar has never been easier or more rewarding.