Singapore explores solar tiles that keep heritage roofs looking traditional

Singapore is exploring solar photovoltaic (PV) roof tiles that could allow heritage buildings to generate clean electricity without compromising their traditional appearance, as the Energy Market Authority (EMA) steps up efforts to advance solar technologies through partnerships with public and private sector organisations.

EMA will collaborate with Swiss technology innovation centre CSEM and the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) to pilot the use of solar PV roof tiles on heritage State buildings. Designed to resemble traditional clay roof tiles, the technology could enable more roof space to generate clean electricity while preserving the overall appearance of historic properties.

Traditional clay-tile roofs are an integral part of the character of Singapore’s heritage precincts. Consequently, conventional solar panels have been installed only in localised areas of heritage buildings to safeguard their architectural appearance and historical character.

The pilot will explore innovative technological solutions that could support the integration of solar power into this type of building while balancing energy generation with conservation requirements.

EMA and CSEM deepen solar technology partnership

The pilot forms part of a broader collaboration between EMA and CSEM, formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on the sidelines of the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW).

The agreement covers joint research and development, as well as knowledge exchange, in solar PV technologies and grid-integration solutions. It also includes the assessment and testing of solar technologies for standards, safety, reliability and performance.

The two organisations will identify and explore suitable demonstration or pilot projects that could support technology validation, knowledge and technology exchange, scale-up and commercialisation.

Puah Kok Keong, Chief Executive of EMA, stated, “Innovation will be key to unlocking Singapore’s solar potential. Through our partnership with CSEM and SLA, we are exploring innovative solar technologies that could bring clean energy to a wider range of buildings, including heritage State buildings. By pushing the boundaries of where solar can be deployed, we can create new opportunities to support Singapore’s energy transition.”

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Balancing clean energy with heritage conservation

The collaboration aims to explore how solar technologies can be integrated into buildings where conventional installations may be constrained by architectural and conservation considerations.

Prof. Tonio Buonassisi, CSEM Vice President of Sustainable Energy, said the partnership brings together Singapore’s commitment to a secure, resilient and low-carbon energy future with Switzerland’s innovation capabilities. He added that the organisations aim to accelerate solar deployment and grid integration in Singapore while creating opportunities for Swiss photovoltaic and grid-management solutions.

Calvin Phua, Chief Executive of SLA, said the agency was committed to managing State properties sustainably while safeguarding their heritage and architectural character.

The pilot will explore how innovative solar technologies can be integrated sensitively into heritage State properties, allowing them to generate clean energy while retaining their distinctive appearance. The initiative could help identify options for making heritage buildings part of Singapore’s wider energy transition.

The source announcement does not specify the pilot’s timeline, installation capacity or expected electricity generation.

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