General Questions
Which companies are you working with in Indonesia?
We work with companies in a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, textiles, logistics, hospitality and government-owned companies. In fact, one of our largest customers to date has been PT. PLN (persero). You can find out more about our flagship project with PLN here. There’s a clear trend towards the uptake of Solar PV, so we expect to do more work with PLN as the regulatory climate for solar PV improves. With so many islands and so much sunlight it just makes sense.
How long has Quantum been developing Solar PV projects?
Quantum was one of the first utility-scale solar PV developers in Indonesia back in 2013-2014. At that time there was very little solar PV installed in the country. Because the technology was so new to PLN we had to bring in international experts and trusted global mega-engineering firms to assist PLN with understanding how to integrate solar PV into the grid. We are now working with a number of international industry leaders to bring the latest solar technology to the region including the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced voltage control software. In Singapore, we are exploring the potential of utilizing virtual power plant technology we will then be able to roll out across the region.
Does your company specialise in solar PV only or do you also do provide energy efficiency solutions?
We are an integrated clean energy service company with a strong focus on solar PV. However, we also work with a trusted, well-established energy efficiency partner and we can fund energy efficiency projects where we are also installing a solar PV rooftop system. We usually start with solar PV and then, working with our partners, offer energy efficiency solutions to customers who are interested in improving the energy efficiency of their operations.
Does the system look ugly?
What looks good varies according to each person’s individual taste. Solar PV panels have a shiny, clean and modern feel to them which most people like. Your rooftop is going to look different, but not ugly. It is now increasingly common for high profile buildings such as hotels and government offices to install solar PV systems. We think they look great, check out some examples here on our Beautiful Solar page.
What benefits do Solar PV provide?
Solar power is a fuel-free, infinite and inexhaustible resource with no volatile fuel costs. It is also an emissions-free energy resource that avoids polluting our air and water. Solar power from Quantum provides immediate energy savings and greater energy stability. Solar PV also reduces line losses on the grid and provides energy to the grid during the daytime, when energy often can be expensive and in high demand.
What do we need to prepare?
We will handle all of the technical studies but you will need to provide us with some technical data such as roof plans, electricity usage history, financial data on your business and access to your roof and electrical systems. We will provide you with advanced information on all requirements we will need from your team with sufficient notice to allow you time to prepare.
Commercial and Administrative Questions
What determines how much we can save on our electricity bill if we install a Quantum Solar PV Rooftop system?
After signing an MOU, we look at your last 12 months of electricity bills and your load profile. Our team of technicians will then visit you and conduct a preliminary site assessment and rooftop inspection. We put all of that data into our modelling software which allows us to understand how much electricity a system can generate at the times when you need it. In general what will determine your savings is:
- your energy use,
- your energy load profile,
- your electricity tariff,
- when you use the energy, and
- the size of your roof space.
Why do I need to sign an MOU?
Moving a project forward has a significant cost to Quantum. The costs associated with performing proper studies and preparatory work usually start in the tens of thousands of dollars, and could run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on the size of the project.
To allow us to allocate resources and prepare the studies needed to offer the best solution for you, we require potential customers to sign an MOU to confirm responsibilities and commitment. This is a non-binding agreement but requires an exclusive period. Our focus is to design a solution that is beneficial to our customers and meets our requirements for financing the project.
Once you receive our formal offer you can choose whether to proceed or not. You’re not bound to say yes, but we want to make sure that anyone we work with is serious.
We already have a great relationship with our bank. Is it possible to use them as the lender for the lease?
Yes, sometimes our customer’s bank is very pro-sustainability and is keen to fund green projects with existing clients. In these cases we may also provide finance through your preferred financial institution if this benefits all parties.
What if our rooftop can produce more power than we need?
If you have more roof space than what is needed to cover your own electricity needs, the excess capacity can be exported to the grid in return for credits. It is important to note that these credits at this point cannot yet be sold but PLN will reduce your next PLN bill. When Quantum designs your system, we do so with your best interest in mind. This means that under the current scheme in Indonesia, we will have to match and right-size the solar PV system so that it provides the most benefit for you.
How can I get a Quantum Solar PV Rooftop system?
Quantum Solar PV rooftop systems are currently only available for projects above 1 MW (which requires approximately 1 HA of available rooftop space). If you would like to find out if your site qualifies for a rooftop system you can answer two simple questions here to get an idea.
Can my company benefit from a Quantum Solar PV Rooftop system if we don’t own our building?
If the rooftop is suitable for solar PV and your rooftop is large enough (you can find out this here) it still may be possible to install a system. Please contact us for more information.
What if we are going to relocate soon?
If you have to move to a new building you should let us know this in advance so we can take it into consideration when we are calculating the commercial arrangements for your system. You may still be able to achieve savings even if you are going to move and we can also relocate the system under certain circumstances.
In this case we would include the cost of relocating the system to your new site in the commercial calculations. If necessary, it is also possible to create mobile systems where every module is movable and can be relocated at any time. A movable system will cost more than a fixed system, but depending on the situation this could prove to be the best option.
Can we engage your company for operations and maintenance only if we purchase the system outright?
Yes, we are able to handle the O&M of the system if you purchase it from us and we install it. The costs of this service depends on the scope of the work.
Can we sell any excess electricity we generate back to the PLN grid?
Currently, it is not possible to sell electricity to PLN, however, ESDM regulations do allow you to export excess energy generated to the PLN grid in return for credits. The credits you receive from PLN will be valued at 65% of PLN’s retail tariff.
What payment guarantees are required?
We require a guarantee to cover the period from contract signing to the commissioning of the project that covers the full investment of the system and its installation. Once installed and operational this guarantee is no longer required but will require a payment guarantee for the life of the project. There are a number of options as to what form this guarantee can take.
What credit eligibility requirements do we have to meet to qualify for “no upfront payment” leasing finance?
Our investment committee and risk committee conduct a thorough review of the credit worthiness of potential customers applying for credit terms. Generally, we seek to confirm your ability to pay your obligations over the life of the lease and your track record of paying vendors and suppliers.
What happens to the electricity generated during weekends and holidays when our facilities are not being used?
Electricity generated is usually used to power common areas and excess energy can be exported to the PLN grid in return for credits.
Will we be required to obtain any permits or licensing to install the system on our building?
We will comply with all local regulatory requirements and arrange all approvals on your behalf to legally install the system on your roof. We may need your assistance throughout the process to provide supporting documentation. We will inform you of the specifics as part of our contracting process.
Safety and Compliance Questions
Who is responsible for the warranty and code compliance of my roof?
We will be responsible for designing and installing the PV system in accordance with applicable building codes. Where possible, we will work with the original roof manufacturer of a building to ensure that we install the PV system in a manner that does not void the roof’s original warranty. After the PV system is installed, the roof manufacturer will inspect the system to confirm that the system meets the approved design and that the roof warranty remains intact. In the unlikely event there is any damage to the roof during installation, this will generally be covered by a workmanship warranty.
Will Solar PV increase the risk of fire or impede fire fighters’ ability to extinguish a fire?
No. We design the Solar PV system in accordance with recognized fire codes that identify best practices for rooftop Solar PV systems. There are a number of internationally published guidelines on Solar PV system installations. We will share system designs with the local fire department, to ensure the fire department is aware of the Solar PV system.
Will a rooftop Solar PV system increase the risk of roof damage from large wind loads?
No. We will conduct a roof assessment to evaluate the roof’s structural integrity, and design a Solar PV system to meet wind loads specified by local building codes. Our design will be approved by a licensed engineer prior to installation, and will meet local building codes.
Will a rooftop Solar PV system impact roof drainage, or maintenance of other rooftop systems?
No. We will assess roof drainage routes and existing rooftop equipment, and will design the system to ensure drainage is not impacted, and access is provided to all rooftop systems to allow for proper maintenance.
Do you perform annual reviews of the panels and the structural integrity of our rooftop?
The very first thing we do is a structural assessment of your roof. If the results show that it is not possible to install solar on the rooftop there are two options. To strengthen the roof, or not proceed. Our Installers have installed thousands of megawatts globally so you can be at ease, we will take care of everything. Operations and maintenance is our responsibility and we take our responsibilities very seriously!
How do you ensure that your systems are safe?
Our systems are installed according to international best practices and both international and Indonesian regulatory requirements. We ensure fire safety is well taken care of and only utilize trusted and proven technology and equipment.
How difficult is it to install Rooftop Solar PV? Can we do it ourselves?
Only licenced installers can install a Rooftop Solar PV system. Although the technology is relatively straightforward and has been thoroughly proven over the last 20+ years. System installation requires a number of regulatory codes that must be complied with. Quantum guarantees that your installation is in compliance with all relevant government regulations.
Technical Questions
What happens if I need to replace my roof?
Before installing a Solar PV system, we will conduct a roof assessment and determine if the roof will need to be strengthened or replaced during the life of the system. Typically if the roof will need to be replaced, building owners are encouraged to replace it prior to installing the PV system. However, contracts can be designed to include the temporary removal of the PV system for roof replacement at a later date.
What is the maximum System size that can be provided?
We have no maximum system size. We can develop projects in excess of 100 MW (which requires 100 HA of available roof space). The limitation is based on space availability, your load profile and energy requirements.
What technology do you use and where is it manufactured?
We work with many of the major technology providers. You can choose from premium or standard inverters but if you don’t have any preference we will provide the solution that will provide the best technical and financial results for your facility. Quantum finances and operates solar PV systems, we are not an equipment manufacturer. We are therefore not tied to any specific brand of technology. We have strong relationships with US, European, Korean, Japanese and Chinese technology providers.
Does the system come with batteries?
We usually do not include batteries with our systems at this time. The reason for this is that the price of batteries still have not reached a level that generally makes them financially viable for a majority of customers. However, there are some circumstances where batteries are commercially viable depending on your load profile, electricity tariff and business continuity requirements. Knowing this, if there are reasons why you may want to include batteries (for example stability of supply), it is possible for us to include storage as one option in the scenarios we offer. Just bear in mind that this is something that will affect the financial savings the system can generate for you.
Can rooftop solar PV replace diesel entirely?
Whether solar power can replace your diesel consumption entirely depends on a number of factors such as the nature and timing of the load, the extent of load shaving, the area of available roof space, among other factors. Some of the factors that constrain the supply of rooftop solar power include the intermittent nature of solar energy, fluctuations in power output, limitations of solar system capacity owing to area constraints and others. It is technically possible to replace diesel entirely but at this time is rarely commercially viable to do so.
What are the various components of a rooftop solar system?
A rooftop solar PV system primarily comprises of Solar PV modules (panels), inverters, and mounting structures. If battery backup is required batteries and charge controllers are also integrated with the system.
How long does it take to set up a Quantum Solar PV Rooftop system?
It depends on the size of the project, but it could take 4 to 6 months on a larger project. Smaller projects are completed much quicker.
Does rooftop solar PV generate power during a power failure?
Not all rooftop solar plants generate power during a power failure; only some do. The difference lies in the inverter and the functionality it supports. Grid-interactive and hybrid inverters supply electricity even during a power failure while grid-tied and off-grid inverters don’t. By global industry standards and for the safety of the electrical line workers this mode of operation can only be done in isolation of grid connetion. This isolation will have to be part of the design when the system is connected and commissioned.
How do solar panels work?
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are composed of solar cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electrical charge is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity by a power inverter so that it can be used for your electricity needs. Many cells are assembled to create a module (also called a panel), and many modules can be linked together to form a solar array.
How are Rooftop Solar PV Systems Mounted?
There are two primary mounting methods for PV systems on commercial building roofs. These are Ballasted Racking and Attached Racking.
Ballasted Racking: Uses heavy weights, typically concrete blocks, to anchor PV systems on a flat roof. Some hybrid-ballasted systems use a combination of ballast and roof penetrating anchors to fasten the system to the roof. The number of roof penetrations for these systems usually depends on how much weight the roof can handle in terms of ballast, and how much additional support the PV system will need to meet wind load requirements.
Advantages: Simple to install; requires few or no roof penetrations; hybrid-ballasted systems require less weight than fully-ballasted systems.
Disadvantages: Only applicable for flat roofs that are capable of supporting the ballast weight; some jurisdictions limit the use of fully-ballasted systems; may require more advanced wind-loading evaluations; hybrid-ballasted systems have an increased risk of roof leaks from faulty roof.
Attached Racking: Uses roof penetrating hardware to mount PV systems on any type of roof. There are many types of attached racking systems for different applications. The number of required roof penetrations will depend on the roof structure, PV system design, and local building codes.
Advantages: Can be used on sloped or flat roofs and in more jurisdictions than ballasted systems.
Disadvantages: Can be more difficult to install than ballasted systems; faulty roof penetrations can reduce the weather-tight integrity of the roof.
Didn’t find an answer to the question you had in mind?
If you have a question that has not been answered, we would be happy to help. Please submit the form below with your question. We will get back to you with an answer as soon as possible.