Background

A shocking tale from Bukit Batok reveals the potential hazards of solar panel installation, as a 58-year-old woman has come forward to share her distressing experience relating to her home.

Ms. Zhu's Experience

Ms. Zhu, residing at Block 244 Bukit Batok East Avenue 5, reported that shortly after solar panels were installed on her rooftop last year, her living conditions deteriorated significantly.

She now faces unsettling issues such as cracks in her walls and a leaky kitchen ceiling that leaves buckets necessary to collect rainwater dripping from above.

"When the workers were drilling to secure the solar panels, it felt like the whole house shook," Ms. Zhu recounted.

Issues Following Installation

Since that installation day, she has observed a troubling transformation in her once-stable home.

“I later noticed the walls cracking, and the ceiling began leaking. While I can't be certain it's all connected, it does seem awfully coincidental."

The ongoing water damage has escalated her concerns, especially regarding potential mould growth that could stain her laundry.

The situation worsens with visible cracks in her bedroom wall, leading to dust falling from the gaps, prompting fears of structural integrity.

Additionally, she has noted that the paint on her walls has been peeling, which she suspects is due to excessive moisture from the rooftop water tank she believes may be malfunctioning.

Seeking Assistance

Frustrated by her efforts to resolve the issues, Ms. Zhu sought help from the town council but learned that any problems occurring within her unit would need to be addressed by the Housing Development Board (HDB).

However, the HDB only directed her back to the town council, citing that if the issues stem from the solar panels or water tanks, then that entity holds the responsibility.

“I’m stuck in the middle with no clear direction on who to contact for help,” Ms. Zhu lamented.

Response from Local Authorities

Adding to her frustration, she mentioned that another resident in her building has faced similar problems but ultimately gave up seeking assistance, reportedly told there was no viable solution.

In response to these alarming complaints, the Jurong-Clementi Town Council acknowledged they had started correspondence with residents regarding their concerns over leaks since June of the previous year.

They are reportedly collaborating with contractors to accelerate necessary repairs.

However, concerning the peeling paint, the council claimed they had not received any prior complaints but promised to monitor resident feedback more diligently going forward.

Wider Implications of Solar Panel Installation

As the trend toward renewable energy sources continues to rise, stories like Ms. Zhu’s remind us of the complex implications these installations can bring to homeowners.

While solar panels undoubtedly present many environmental benefits, this case serves as a crucial warning for communities embracing these technologies.

Residents must ensure proper installation and maintain open channels of communication with local authorities to preempt future structural calamities.