Business Models and Financing Options for a Rapid Scale-up of Rooftop Solar Power Systems in Thailand

Sopitsuda Tongsopit, Sunee Moungchareon, Apinya Aksornkij and Tanai Potisat

Chapter 4 in Financing Renewable Energy Development in East Asia Summit Countries A Primer of Effective Policy Instruments, pp 79-136 from Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)

Abstract: Business models and financing options play a large role in driving the expansion of rooftop solar markets. In Thailand, even though there is currently a pause in feed-in tariff support for rooftop solar systems, the market is moving forward with new business models and financing options for solar roofs. After reviewing United States-based business models and financing options, this study documents and analyses four emerging business models and one emerging financing option for customers to invest in rooftop solar systems in Thailand. The business models include roof rental, solar power purchase agreements (PPA), solar leasing, and community solar. The financing option includes two types of solar loans. We analyse the business models in terms of their components and structure, drivers for their emergence, and associated risks. In relation to the buying option, we further demonstrate the financial viability of two models – commercial solar PPA and residential solar leasing. When compared to the buying option, the commercial solar PPA model shows more attractive financial results based on the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE), net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and payback period. By contrast, the residential solar leasing model is currently unattractive under the leasing conditions currently being discussed in the market. A number of policy recommendations are proposed in order to build an enabling environment for rooftop solar businesses to thrive. Among them include the implementation of net metering and support for residential-scale solar systems, such as in the form of tax incentives.

Keywords: Rooftop solar power; business model; financing; Thailand (search for similar items in EconPapers)
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