Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation launches SolaRIS: Promoting Home Solarisation in Malaysia

The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, known as “Petra,” has introduced a pioneering initiative with the launch of the Solar for Rakyat Incentive Scheme (SolaRIS), aimed at encouraging domestic users to adopt solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in their homes. Under SolaRIS, new net energy metering (NEM) users can benefit from a rebate of up to RM4,000.

Open to Malaysian citizens who are TNB account holders and first-time applicants for the NEM Rakyat programme, SolaRIS operates on a first-come-first-served basis, with applications accepted from April 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. The Solar PV System needs to be up and running by March 31, 2025, or until all SolaRIS rebate quotas are utilized, whichever occurs first. Administration of SolaRIS falls under Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), with rebate payments issued upon successful installation and operation of the Solar PV System directly into the user’s local bank account.

In addition to incentives, the government has approved an extra quota of 100 megawatts (MW) under the NEM Rakyat programme, showcasing Malaysia’s commitment to expanding renewable energy (RE) capacity and involving citizens in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Petra’s innovative approach with SolaRIS is commendable, serving as a catalyst for change. The initiative is expected to encourage more Malaysians to embrace solar energy in their homes, contributing to Malaysia’s efforts to become a leading example of environmental responsibility.