Tariff shock dampened by energy initiatives

PUTRAJAYA: Several initiatives have been lined up to encourage energy efficient practices through the use of solar energy, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

The Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister said that certain conditions have been relaxed to encourage the installation of solar energy systems, especially on rooftop structures.

“These initiatives will also serve as an option for consumers to control their electricity bills,” he told a press conference yesterday after announcing the electricity tariff revamp.

The initiatives include relaxing the capacity limit for households applying for the Net Energy Metering (NEM) Rakyat programme.

Nik Nazmi said users could now install solar energy systems based on specified technical criteria.

Previously, the limit was set at 4kW for single-phase installations and 10kW for three-phase installations.

He said the permitted capacity for solar energy stems under the NEM Nova and Self-Consumption for Solar PV Installation (SelCo) programmes would be increased from 75% to 85%.

The SelCo programme is now open for application by high-voltage consumers.

The implementation of the new regulations of both programmes will come into effect on July 15 based on updated guidelines by the Energy Commission.

Nik Nazmi said Tenaga Nasional Bhd would also announce several enhancements to encourage the installation of solar energy systems.

“The ministry is committed to the plan of transitioning to sustainable energy use while balancing energy security, accessibility and environmental sustainability,” he added.