Brunei Solar Report

Gain comprehensive insights into the statistics and metrics surrounding the solar production industry in Brunei

  1. Climates to travel (n.d.). Climate in Brunei – Average weather, temperature, rainfall, sunshine. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.climatestotravel.com/climate/brunei
  2. ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (2023, September). Forecast for Potential Solar PV Capacity in Brunei Darussalam. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.eria.org/uploads/media/Research-Project-Report/RPR-2023-12/09_Chapter-2-Forecast-for-Potential-Solar-PV-Capacity-in-Brunei-Darussalam-.pdf
  3. Electrical Department Brunei (n.d.). Electricity tariff. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.des.gov.bn/SitePages/tariff.aspx
  4. Menara ee sdn. (2024, November 21). The Importance of Power System Stability in Electrical Engineering in Brunei. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://menarabn.com/power-system-stability-importance-in-brunei/
  5. International Renewable Energy Agency (2024). Renewable energy statistics 2024. Retrieved November 24, 2024, from https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2024/Jul/IRENA_Renewable_Energy_Statistics_2024.pdf
  6. MDPI (2023, October 24). Rooftop PV Energy Potential Based on Housing Design in Brunei National Housing Planning. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4591/53/1/21#B7-engproc-53-00021
  7. International Energy Journal (2014). Electricity Consumption in Brunei Darussalam: Challenges in Energy Conservation. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.thaiscience.info/journals/Article/IENJ/10972502.pdf
  8. ASEAN – German Energy Programme (2022). Country profiles. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://agep.aseanenergy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CP-2022-Brunei-Darussalam.pdf
  9. ASEAN – German Energy Programme (n.d.). Energy policy – Brunei. Country profiles. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://agep.aseanenergy.org/country-profiles/brunei-darussalam/brunei-energy-sector/
  10. Crisis 24 (2023, October 17). Brunei: Nationwide unplanned power outages ongoing as of the afternoon of Oct. 17. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://crisis24.garda.com/alerts/2023/10/brunei-nationwide-unplanned-power-outages-ongoing-as-of-the-afternoon-of-oct-17
  11. The Scoop (2024, March 15). Gov’t identifies gaps in managing power outages. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://thescoop.co/2024/03/15/govt-identifies-gaps-in-managing-power-outages/
  12. Solarvest (2024, June 19). Solarvest completes the first rooftop solar project in Brunei. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://solarvest.com/learn/news/solarvest-completes-the-first-rooftop-solar-project-in-brunei/
  13. Department of Energy Brunei (2020, April 18). Installation of Solar Photovoltaic Rooftop and Energy Auditing Programme in Temburong District. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.energy.gov.bn/Lists/News/View.aspx?ContentTypeId=0x01003ED653BD60D934498D0B69FBB25B0AD7&ID=210
  14. ASEAN Centre for energy (2016). ASEAN Renewable Energy Project Competition. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.energy.gov.bn/Shared%20Documents/ASEAN%20Energy%20Awards/RE%20Reports/RE%20-%20BIT%20Computer%20Sdn%20Bhd%20-signed.pdf
  15. The Scoop (2021, February 4). Brunei to build 30 MW solar power plant in Kg Sg Akar. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://thescoop.co/2021/02/04/brunei-to-build-30-mw-solar-power-plant-in-kg-sg-akar/
  16. Solar Brunei (2015, November 19). Tenaga Suria Brunei – Brunei’s very own solar farm. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://solarbrunei.com/2015/11/19/tenaga-suria-brunei-bruneis-very-own-solar-farm/
  17. Biz Brunei (2024, October 24). Hengyi’s solar project at PMB set to become Brunei’s largest. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.bizbrunei.com/2024/10/hengyis-solar-project-at-pmb-set-to-become-bruneis-largest/
  18. The Scoop (2021, April 7). BSP launches solar park in turn to renewable energy. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://thescoop.co/2021/04/07/crown-prince-inaugurates-bsp-solar-plant/
  19. Solar Brunei (2016, April 12). Why is solar not widely used in Brunei? Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://solarbrunei.com/2016/12/04/why-is-solar-energy-not-widely-used-in-brunei/
  20. The Scoop (2021, June 30). Nine potential sites identified for floating solar farms. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://thescoop.co/2021/06/30/nine-potential-sites-identified-for-floating-solar-farms/
  21. Brunei Tourism (n.d.). How Much Do People in Brunei Earn? A Guide to the Average Income in Brunei. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.bruneitourism.travel/how-much-do-people-in-brunei-earn-a-guide-to-the-average-income-in-brunei/
  22. World salaries (n.d.). Average Solar Engineer Salary in Brunei for 2024. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://worldsalaries.com/average-solar-engineer-salary-in-brunei/
  23. World salaries (n.d.). Average Solar Energy Installation Manager Salary in Brunei for 2024. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://worldsalaries.com/average-solar-energy-installation-manager-salary-in-brunei/
  24. World salaries (n.d.). Average Solar Photovoltaic Installer Salary in Brunei for 2024. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://worldsalaries.com/average-solar-photovoltaic-installer-salary-in-brunei/
  25. Worldometers (n.d.). Brunei population. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/brunei-darussalam-population/
  26. DARe (n.d.). Ready-Built Factory. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.dare.gov.bn/ready-built-factory
  27. Smart Energy International (2018, March 13). Brunei government to introduce prepaid meters to curb water wastage. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.smart-energy.com/regional-news/asia/brunei-government-prepaid-meters/
  28. Office – hub (n.d.). Regus (Brunei). Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.office-hub.com/bn/workspaces/regus-brunei-0013m00002yhjDEAAY
  29. Statista (2024, September). Insurances – Brunei Darussalam. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.statista.com/outlook/fmo/insurances/brunei-darussalam
  30. International Trade Administration (2024, February 22). Brunei – Country Commercial Guide. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/brunei-energy
  31. International Energy Agency (2022). Energy system of Brunei Darussalam. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.iea.org/countries/brunei-darussalam
  32. Department of Energy (n.d.). Renewable energy. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.energy.gov.bn/SitePages/index.aspx
  33. Brunei Economic Development Board (n.d.). Welcome to the Brunei economic development board. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.bedb.gov.bn/
  34. U.S. Energy Information Administration (2017, March). Brunei. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.eia.gov/international/analysis/country/BRN
  35. Green Brunei (2017). Solar panel guideline for residence. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://green-brunei.com/solar-panel-installation/
  36. Ministry of Energy Brunei (2020). Guidelines on large scale solar photovoltaic plant connection to distribution grid. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.energy.gov.bn/Shared%20Documents/Resources/GUIDELINES%20ON%20LARGE%20SCALE%20SOLAR%20PV%20CONNECTION%20TO%20DISTRIBUTION%20GRID.pdf
  37. Solar Brunei (n.d.). Photovoltaic System. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://solarbrunei.com/solar-photovoltaic-system/
  38. PV know how (2024, March 6). Brunei Solar Energy Expands with 30 MW Plant. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.pvknowhow.com/brunei-solar-energy-expands-with-30-mw-plant/
  39. Power Technology (2024, October 21). Power plant profile: Brunei Solar PV Park, Brunei. Retrieved November 28, 2024, from https://www.power-technology.com/marketdata/power-plant-profile-brunei-solar-pv-park-brunei/

Key points

  • All figures have been converted into USD

Yearly sunshine (sun hours per year)

Brunei receives an average of 2,560 hours of sunshine per year. This translates to approximately 7 hours of sunshine daily across the year, with slight variations depending on the month.1

Read more

kWh per kWp installed

The average annual energy generation per unit of installed photovoltaic (PV) capacity in Brunei is approximately 1,400–1,600 kWh/kWp.2

Read more

 

Average cost per kWh from utility company

As of 1st January 2012, the Energy Department of Brunei introduced a 4-tier tariff structure, ranging from $0.0075 to $0.09 per kWh for residential customers, and from $0.037 to $0.15 per kWh for commercial customers.3

Read more

 

Reliability of electrical power supply grid

Brunei faces challenges in maintaining power system stability, including climate factors, aging infrastructure, and the integration of renewable energy sources. To address these, the country is investing in modernizing the grid, improving forecasting systems, and incorporating advanced technologies like smart grids and energy storage solutions.

Electrical engineers play a vital role in ensuring system stability through continuous monitoring, maintenance, and implementation of protection systems. With ongoing innovations and strategic investments, Brunei aims to enhance the reliability of its power grid to meet future demands and support sustainable development.4

Read more

 

Detailed Information

  • All figures have been converted into USD

    • Total solar panel production capacity (installed)

    Total installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity in Brunei was approximately 5 MW.5

    Total solar panel production capacity (projected)

    Brunei aims to achieve 200 MW of solar energy by 2025, 600 MW by 2035, and 1200 MW by 2050.6

    Average costs of various electricity generation sources (coal, natural gas, solar, etc)

    • Natural gas – $0.045 $/kWh 7

    Percentages of various electricity generation sources (coal, natural gas, solar, etc)

    • Natural Gas & Oil: 99.8% 8
    • Solar Power: 0.2%. 9

    Average daily availability of electricity from the national grid (measured in hours)

    1011

    The effective availability of electricity can vary, but it is generally less than the expected 24 hours per day due to frequent power outages.

    In October 2023, a significant blackout affected multiple districts, with some households experiencing outages lasting up to 15 hours. The Department of Electrical Services is working on improving infrastructure and increasing capacity to mitigate these issues, but power disruptions remain a concern for residents and businesses.

    Number of residential solar panel installations

    121314

    The first rooftop solar project was completed at Jerudong International School, featuring a capacity of 382.53 kWp, which serves as a significant milestone for solar energy in the country. Additionally, various projects have been initiated by the Ministry of Energy to promote solar installations, including a rooftop project in Temburong District.

    The overall potential for residential solar adoption is substantial, with over 60,000 households capable of implementing such systems.

    Total number of solar farms (installed and projected)

    Currently, Brunei has 2 operational solar farms, Tenaga Suria Brunei solar farm and Brunei Shell Petroleum solar park, as well as 2 projected solar farms: Kampung Sungai Akar and Project SINAR by Hengyi Industries.15161718

    Off-grid market demand for solar panels (current and projected)

    Off-grid solar power system demand in Brunei is influenced by several key factors: 19

    • Cheap electricity prices make solar less attractive, as initial costs often outweigh savings over time.
    • Grid Connectivity: With nearly 100% grid access, most residents do not find off-grid systems necessary
    • Lack of buy-back or feed-in-tariff scheme.

    On-grid market demand for solar panels (current and projected)

    1516171820

    Brunei has installed a total of approximately 9,234 solar panels at the Tenaga Suria Brunei solar farm, which has been operational since 2010 with a capacity of 1.2 MW.

    Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) has installed 7,000 solar panels at its headquarters in Seria. This installation is part of a 3.3 MW solar park designed to reduce the company’s greenhouse gas emissions and power approximately 600 households annually.

    The government is actively promoting renewable energy, aiming for 30% of total power generation to come from renewable sources by 2035. Future projects aim to significantly contribute this goal, with plans for a 30 MW solar plant and the larger Project SINAR, which will ultimately reach a capacity of 476 MWp across multiple phases. Brunei has also identified nine potential sites for floating solar farms, which could significantly contribute to on-grid solutions, producing up to 2,323 MW by 2035.

    Average monthly income of workers in solar industry (labor cost)

    21222324

    • The average monthly salary in Brunei is approximately $1,955.
    • Solar Engineer: the average monthly salary is approximately $ 2,121.
    • Solar Energy Installation Manager: the average monthly salary is approximately $3,227.
    • Solar Photovoltaic Installer: the average monthly salary is approximately $1,394.

    Population of the country

    The current population of Brunei is 464,214.25

    Average overhead costs of solar panel production (with a brief breakdown)

    Estimate for Factory Rent 26

    The average monthly rent for industrial warehouses in Brunei is approximately $8.61 per square meter.

    Industrial Electricity Rates 3

    The average electricity price for businesses in Brunei ranges from approximately $0.037 to $0.15 per kWh, structured in a 4-tier tariff.

    Water Costs 27

    In Brunei, water is heavily subsidized, with a production cost of $0.90 per cubic meter, but sold to consumers at just $0.11, reflecting an 88% government subsidy.

    Salaries and Wages 222324

    Monthly salaries of workers in solar industry in Brunei ranges from $1,394 to $3,227, depending on the position.

    Rent for Office Space 28

    The average monthly rent for office space in Brunei ranges approximately $7.74-$21.5 per square meter.

    Insurance 29

    The average spending per capita for non-life insurance in the Brunei is expected to be  $3,240 in 2024.

    A summary of the energy infrastructure

    3031323334

    Energy Mix

    Brunei’s energy mix is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, primarily natural gas and oil. The country produces approximately 127,000 barrels of oil and 243,000 barrels of oil equivalent of natural gas daily. Renewable energy sources are currently minimal but are targeted to reach a 10% share in the energy mix by 2035, as outlined in the strategic plan adopted in 2014.

    Key Institutions

    The primary institution overseeing Brunei’s energy sector is the Department of Energy, part of the Prime Minister’s Office. This department is responsible for formulating policies and regulations, including the establishment of the Energy Industry Competency Framework to enhance local human capital in the energy sector.

    Additionally, the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) plays a role in promoting investments and initiatives related to energy infrastructure.

    Export / Import

    Brunei is a significant exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), primarily to markets in Japan and South Korea. However, LNG production has seen a decline in recent years due to maintenance issues and maturing fields.

    In terms of imports, Brunei’s energy sector remains largely self-sufficient, but it does import certain equipment and services necessary for its oil and gas operations.

    Policy Goals

    Brunei’s long-term vision for its energy sector is encapsulated in the Wawasan Brunei 2035, which aims to diversify the economy while maintaining a strong focus on the oil and gas industry. Key policy goals include:

    • Achieving a 10% share of renewable energy in the national energy mix by 2035.
    • Enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions through various initiatives.
    • Strengthening local capacity and human capital development within the energy sector.
    • Ensuring a reliable and efficient supply of energy to support economic growth.

    Some of the government regulations surrounding solar panel production

    3536

    As of now, there are no specific national regulations governing the installation of solar panels in Brunei.

    Guidelines for Large Scale Solar Projects: The Ministry of Energy has issued guidelines for large-scale solar photovoltaic (LSS PV) plants connecting to the distribution grid. These guidelines require compliance with the Electricity Order 2017 and stipulate that participants in the LSS program must be local companies with at least 30% Bruneian equity.

    Safety and Licensing Requirements: While there are no overarching regulations for smaller installations, any large-scale project must follow safety rules and obtain necessary licenses as per the Electricity Order 2017. Licensed electricians are required for installations, especially for hybrid systems that connect to the public utility grid.

    Government initiatives in solar panel production (includes investments and subsidies)

    914203738

    30 MW Solar Power Plant: The Brunei government is developing a 30 MW solar power plant in Kampung Sungai Akar, part of a broader goal to achieve 200 MW of solar energy by 2025. This project is significant as it marks a major step in diversifying Brunei’s energy sources away from fossil fuels and aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% over the next decade.

    Tenaga Suria Brunei Project: The first on-grid solar PV plant, funded by Mitsubishi Corporation, has a capacity of 1.2 MW and was inaugurated in 2011.

    Floating Solar Panel Projects: The government has identified nine potential sites for floating solar panel installations, aiming for a total capacity of 2,323 MW by 2035. This innovative approach addresses land limitations while harnessing Brunei’s abundant water resources for renewable energy generation.

    Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): The Ministry of Energy is planning to implement a PPP model for the construction of new solar plants, which will encourage private sector investment and participation in renewable energy projects.

    Lack of Incentive Schemes: Currently, Brunei does not have on-grid renewable energy regulations such as feed-in-tariffs (FiT) or net energy metering (NEM). This limits the financial incentives for individuals or businesses to install solar panels connected to the grid, leading to a predominance of off-grid systems.

    Notable solar projects in the country (installed and projected)

    12141739

    Hengyi’s Solar Project (Project SINAR)

    • Capacity: 38 MW (first phase), with a total of 476 MW planned
    • Location: Pulau Muara Besar (PMB)
    • Details: Launched by Hengyi Industries, this project aims to become Brunei’s largest solar installation. The first phase is expected to be completed by April 2025 and will provide energy primarily for Hengyi’s refinery. The project will expand over three phases, ultimately supplying power for over 120,000 households and contributing to the national power grid when needed.

    Jerudong International School Solar Project

    • Capacity: 382.53 kW
    • Location: Jerudong International School
    • Details: This is Brunei’s first rooftop solar project, launched in June 2024. It aims to produce nearly 600,000 kWh annually and reduce the school’s carbon footprint significantly. The initiative serves as an educational platform for students regarding renewable energy technologies.

    Brunei Solar PV Park

    • Capacity: 30 MW
    • Location: Berakas B
    • Details: This solar PV project is currently in the announced stage. It will be a ground-mounted installation designed to contribute significantly to Brunei’s renewable energy targets.

    Tenaga Suria Brunei

    • Capacity: 1.2 MW
    • Location: Seria, Belait District
    • Details: Launched in 2010, this was the first solar plant in Brunei. It has contributed to significant savings in natural gas consumption and CO2 emissions over its operational years.

    Upcoming Solar Plant in Subok

    • Capacity: 30 MW
    • Location: Subok
    • Details: This project is planned for completion by 2025 and is part of Brunei’s broader strategy to increase renewable energy capacity as it aims for 30% of its power generation mix to come from renewable sources by 2035.

    Some of the notable solar companies (plus brief details on what they do)

    1215171838

    Solarvest Holdings Bhd

    • Headquarters:Selangor, Brunei
    • Website:solarvest.com
    • Details:Solarvest is a key player in Brunei’s renewable energy sector, having completed the country’s first rooftop solar project at Jerudong International School. Solarvest aims to expand its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region, targeting 200 MW of cumulative projects by FY25.

    Hengyi Industries

    • Headquarters:Pulau Muara Besar, Brunei
    • Website:https://www.hengyi-industries.com/
    • Details:Hengyi is developing Project SINAR, which will become Brunei’s largest solar installation with a planned capacity of 476 MW over three phases. The first phase, set to be completed by April 2025, will generate 38 MW primarily for Hengyi’s refinery and contribute to the national grid.

    Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP)

    • Headquarters:Seria, Brunei
    • Website:bsp.com.bn
    • Details:BSP operates a solar park with a capacity of 3.3 MW near its headquarters. This facility uses approximately 7,000 solar panels and is designed to power around 600 households annually. BSP has received recognition for its engineering excellence in solar projects.

    Berakas Power Company

    • Headquarters:Berakas, Brunei
    • Website:https://www.bpc-brunei.com/home/
    • Details:This company has initiated its first solar PV system project by installing 320 solar panels on the rooftop of its headquarters.

    Quaezar Sdn Bhd

    • Headquarters: Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
    • Website:https://solarbrunei.com/
    • Details: Founded in 2015, the company specializes in solar energy, electrical, and construction services for residential, commercial, and government clients, offering tailored solar solutions to reduce electricity costs and general electrical and construction services.

    Mitsubishi Corporation

    • Headquarters:Tokyo, Japan
    • Website:mitsubishicorp.com
    • Details:Mitsubishi Corporation funded the Tenaga Suria Brunei project and continues to support renewable energy development in the region through various partnerships and investments.

Solar News Related to Brunei

No relevant news for Brunei yet.

Our Services

Business Plan E-Course 

Learn more about our free e-Course here

Full Scale Solar Production Service

Learn more about our full scale production service here

Consulting Service

Learn more about our free consulting service here

Turnkey Service

Learn more about our free turnkey service here

Are you interested in starting your own solar module production line?

We can help you start your own solar module production company. With our 100% turnkey service, we will deliver the needed machines, do a technology transfer, provide expert and excellent support, and help you with the know-how needed to start even if you don't have any previous experience in this industry.

Start Your Own Solar Panel Production Line Today!

Find your perfect solution
>