Thailand’s solar rooftop sector is expected to grow significantly in 2025 as falling equipment prices, increased product availability, and government support for renewable energy continue to attract new residential and commercial customers.
Thailand’s solar rooftop industry is on the cusp of significant expansion, with increased competition emerging as a result of falling prices, a growing supply of products, and supportive government policy aimed at accelerating renewable energy adoption.
A range of new offerings are entering the market. Among them is a solar energy system designed specifically for townhouses, recently introduced by EnergyLIB, a provider of solar energy solutions. In addition, new products are being rolled out by a partnership that includes Germany’s Lapp Holding Asia, Hong Kong’s Jebsen and Jessen Group, and Chinese solar panel manufacturer Deye.
One of the key drivers of demand is the reduction in cost for both panels and battery systems. According to Chatchai Wajakiet, general manager of JJ-Lapp—a joint venture formed by Jebsen and Jessen Group and Lapp Holding Asia—changes in government regulation that simplify the installation process are also making solar adoption more accessible to a broader base of consumers. While the technology has traditionally been adopted by business owners, including factory operators and office buildings, the household sector is now expected to take on a larger share of market growth.
“More affordable solar technology is making clean energy adoption increasingly attractive,” said Mr. Chatchai. He pointed to falling hardware prices as a key factor in the broadening customer base.
Price comparisons underscore the shift. Photovoltaic systems capable of producing one megawatt of electricity, which cost around 150 million baht in 2010, are now available for as little as 15 million baht, according to Prapunt Harnchai, a consultant for Deye Thailand. Similarly, a 5-kilowatt-hour battery energy storage system (BESS), essential for storing solar-generated power and maintaining energy reliability, now costs around 200,000 baht—down from 250,000 baht previously.
BESS units are increasingly seen as critical components in solar installations, especially in residential settings, as they help mitigate the variability of solar power generation caused by weather and seasonal factors.
Broader geopolitical developments are also likely to influence the regional solar landscape. Analysts from both the public and private sectors say that Asian markets, including Thailand, may see a rise in Chinese solar panel exports following the announcement by former US President Donald Trump of plans to impose new tariffs on solar imports from Southeast Asia. Chinese manufacturers with operations in Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Vietnam have faced accusations from US authorities of exporting solar panels at prices below production cost due to government subsidies.
A final decision from the US International Trade Commission on the proposed tariffs is expected in June.
Representatives from various energy companies and industry experts, including Mr. Chatchai and Mr. Prapunt, were among those who shared insights on the market outlook.
