Question 1

Can I install solar if I rent my villa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your landlord. The DEWA account must also be linked to the solar application. Many landlords are open to this as it upgrades their property value.

Question 2

Can I install solar if I live in an apartment?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Individual apartment owners or tenants cannot install solar panels on shared building roofs. Solar for apartment buildings must be initiated by the building owner or Owners Association for common areas.

Question 3

Do I need to own the property to go solar?

Accepted Answer

You either need to own the property or have the explicit written permission (NOC) of the property owner. The DEWA bill can remain in the tenant's name.

Question 4

What is the maximum system size I can install?

Accepted Answer

Under the Shams Dubai programme, the maximum solar capacity you can install is limited to your property's total connected load (the maximum power DEWA supplies to your property). Your installer will verify this during the site visit.

Question 5

Can I install ground-mounted panels instead of on the roof?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ground-mounted systems are permitted in Dubai, provided you have sufficient space within your property boundary and meet Dubai Municipality setback regulations.

Question 6

How do I find DEWA-certified solar companies?

Accepted Answer

You can use SolarQuote.ae to get matched with pre-vetted, DEWA-certified installers. Alternatively, you can view the official list of enrolled contractors on the DEWA website.

Question 7

What is the DEWA application process?

Accepted Answer

The process involves 4 main stages: 1. NOC Application, 2. Design Approval, 3. Inspection & Testing, 4. Meter Installation & Connection. Your certified installer handles all of this paperwork on your behalf.

Question 8

How long does the permit process take?

Accepted Answer

For a standard residential villa, DEWA approvals typically take 2 to 4 weeks. The physical installation only takes 2-5 days. Expect a total timeline of 4 to 8 weeks from signing the contract to switching the system on.

Question 9

Are there other permits required besides DEWA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will need a building permit from Dubai Municipality to ensure the roof can support the weight. If you live in a gated community, you will also need an NOC from your developer or Homeowners Association.

Question 10

How much does the DEWA smart meter cost?

Accepted Answer

Under the Shams Dubai programme, DEWA provides and installs the bidirectional smart meter completely free of charge for residential customers.

Question 11

What is a Makani number and why do installers need it?

Accepted Answer

A Makani number is a unique 10-digit address code assigned by the RTA. Installers use it to locate your property on satellite maps to measure your roof and estimate solar potential before visiting.

Question 12

How much do solar panels cost to install in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary by system size. A 5kW system costs AED 20,000-30,000. A 10kW system costs AED 40,000-55,000. A 20kW system costs AED 80,000-100,000.

Question 13

How much will I actually save on my DEWA bill?

Accepted Answer

Most Dubai villas reduce their electricity charges by 30% to 50% annually. Note that solar only offsets the electricity portion of your bill, not water, sewerage, or the Dubai Municipality housing fee.

Question 14

Is VAT applicable on solar installations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the standard 5% UAE Value Added Tax (VAT) applies to the purchase and installation of solar energy systems.

Question 15

What is the "zero upfront" or subscription model?

Accepted Answer

Companies like GoSolr offer a subscription model where they install and maintain the system for free, and you pay a fixed monthly fee (e.g., AED 449/month). Your DEWA savings are usually higher than the fee, meaning you save money from month one.

Question 16

What is the typical payback period?

Accepted Answer

For residential properties in Dubai, the payback period (the time it takes for savings to equal the initial cost) is typically 4 to 7 years. Since panels last 25+ years, you get 18-20 years of free electricity after payback.

Question 17

Are there any government subsidies or grants for solar?

Accepted Answer

The UAE government does not offer direct cash grants for solar. The primary financial incentive is the Shams Dubai net metering programme itself, which allows you to offset your bill at retail electricity rates.

Question 18

Do solar panels lose efficiency in the Dubai summer heat?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from light, not heat. High temperatures actually reduce panel efficiency slightly. However, Dubai's intense and consistent sunlight more than makes up for this thermal loss.

Question 19

How long do solar panels last?

Accepted Answer

Tier 1 solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years. They come with a 25-year linear performance warranty, guaranteeing they will still produce at least 80-85% of their original power output after 25 years.

Question 20

Will I have power if DEWA goes down?

Accepted Answer

Not with a standard on-grid system. For safety reasons, grid-tied inverters automatically shut down during a power cut. If you want backup power, you need a Hybrid system with batteries.

Question 21

What is the difference between On-grid, Hybrid, and Off-grid?

Accepted Answer

On-grid connects to DEWA with no batteries (best for Dubai). Hybrid connects to DEWA but has batteries for backup. Off-grid has no DEWA connection and relies entirely on solar and batteries (for remote areas).

Question 22

Will installing solar panels damage my roof?

Accepted Answer

No. Professional, DEWA-certified installers use specialized mounting systems that do not compromise roof waterproofing. For flat concrete roofs, they often use ballast mounts that require zero roof penetration.

Question 23

How many panels do I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your consumption. A 5kW system needs about 10-12 panels. A 10kW system needs 20-24 panels. A 20kW system needs 40-48 panels. Each modern panel is roughly 2 square meters.

Question 24

How accurate is the SolarQuote.ae calculator?

Accepted Answer

Our calculator uses average Dubai solar irradiance data and current DEWA tariff slabs to provide a highly accurate initial estimate. However, exact figures require a physical site assessment to check roof shading and orientation.

Question 25

What maintenance do solar panels require?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels have no moving parts, so maintenance is minimal. In Dubai, the main requirement is cleaning the dust off the panels 2 to 4 times a year to maintain maximum efficiency.

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